For many people, substance use begins as a way to escape, an attempt to push aside stress, a mental health condition, or pain, if only for a moment. But what starts as an experiment or a quick high can quickly spiral into something much darker. Inhalants are one of the most overlooked yet incredibly dangerous substances that people use, often without realizing the risks.
But what are inhalants? Unlike other drugs that require buying from a dealer or getting a prescription, inhalants are found in everyday household products, things you might have used growing up without ever thinking twice.
Many people find themselves caught in a cycle of addiction, unsure of how they got there or how to overcome addiction. At Woodland Recovery Center, we know how difficult this journey can be, and we’re here to help. If you’ve been looking for support, our structured drug rehab program could be the answer to finding your recovery.
What Are Inhalants?
Inhalants refer to a broad category of substances that people inhale to achieve a high. Unlike other drugs, these aren’t substances you would typically associate with addiction, many of which are common household items.
- Aerosols – Spray paint, hairspray, deodorants, air fresheners
- Gases – Lighter fluid, propane, whipped cream dispensers (nitrous oxide, or “whippets”)
- Solvents – Paint thinners, nail polish remover, gasoline, glue
- Nitrites – Often called “poppers,” used to enhance sensation rather than induce a traditional high.
Because these items are so accessible, inhalant use often begins at a young age, sometimes even in childhood.
The act of inhaling these substances, often called “huffing,” “sniffing,” or “bagging,” produces a quick and intense high. But what many don’t realize is that inhalants are not only addictive, but they can also be deadly, even after a single use. The body reacts to inhalants in a way that slows down brain activity. In doing so, it can also cause dangerous side effects like sudden heart failure, suffocation, and irreversible brain damage.
Effects of Inhalants
The effects of inhalants can range from mild dizziness and euphoria to life-threatening consequences. While the high only lasts for a few minutes, the damage can last a lifetime. Some of the short-term and long-term effects include:
Short-Term Effects:
- Dizziness, slurred speech, and lack of coordination
- Hallucinations or delusions
- Nausea and vomiting
- Confusion and drowsiness
- Irregular heartbeat or heart failure (Sudden Sniffing Death Syndrome)
Long-Term Effects:
- Brain damage, including memory loss and cognitive impairment
- Muscle weakness and nerve damage
- Organ damage, especially to the liver, kidneys, and lungs
- Mental health struggles, including depression and anxiety
- Increased risk of overdose and death
Inhalants are especially dangerous because of how quickly they affect the brain. Unlike other drugs, which might take time to show their impact, inhalants can cause serious harm within seconds.
Contact Woodland Recovery Center to Start Your Recovery at Our Drug Rehab
From the moment you walk through the doors at Woodland Recovery Center, you’re met with a team that listens. Our group therapy sessions create a space where you can connect with others who truly understand what you’re going through. At the same time, our day program gives you structure without pulling you away from your responsibilities. If you’re a veteran, our veterans outpatient program is designed with your unique experiences in mind, ensuring you get specialized care that speaks to your journey.
We focus on real change, helping you not just break free from inhalant use but also develop the skills to stay sober. Whether it’s through relapse prevention strategies, trauma-informed therapy, or holistic approaches that support your mental health, every step is designed to help you reclaim your independence. At Woodland Recovery Center, recovery is not only possible but within reach. Call us today at 662.222.2989 or use the online form, and let’s build a future you feel good about.
