Inhalant Rehab in Orange County
at Able to Change Recovery
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Amanda Stevens
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Amanda Stevens
Medical Content Writer
Amanda Stevens is a highly respected figure in the field of medical content writing, with a specific focus on eating disorders and addiction treatment. Amanda earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work from Purdue University, graduating Magna Cum Laude, which serves as a strong educational foundation for her contributions.
Inhalant abuse, which involves the deliberate inhalation of volatile substances for their mind-altering effects, poses severe risks to physical and mental health. These substances are found in common household products and can cause immediate and long-term damage – with potentially fatal consequences even from a single use.[1]
The practice, often referred to as “huffing,” is particularly dangerous due to its accessibility and the misconception that household products are less harmful than illegal drugs. Fortunately, recovery from inhalant addiction is possible with the proper treatment and support.
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What Are Inhalants?
Inhalants are a diverse group of volatile substances that produce chemical vapors that can be inhaled to induce a mind-altering effect.[2] These substances are found in many common household products and can be categorized into four main types: volatile solvents, aerosols, gasses, and nitrites.
Volatile solvents include products like paint thinners, gasoline, and glues. Aerosols are spray cans containing propellants and solvents, such as spray paints, deodorants, and cooking sprays. Gasses include medical anesthetics as well as household or commercial products like butane lighters and whipped cream dispensers. Nitrites, often referred to as “poppers,” are a special class of inhalants that are sometimes used as sexual enhancers.
The appeal of inhalants, particularly among young people, stems from their easy accessibility, low cost, and the quick onset of their effects. When inhaled, these substances rapidly enter the bloodstream through the lungs and quickly reach the brain and other organs.[3] The resulting high is often described as a feeling of euphoria, dizziness, and lightheadedness. However, this short-lived high comes at a tremendous cost to the user’s health. Inhalants can cause serious damage to the brain, heart, liver, and kidneys. They can lead to loss of coordination, limb spasms, hearing loss, and even sudden sniffing death syndrome, where the heart stops beating abruptly.
In 2021, approximately 0.8 percent of US citizens over the age of 12 (or around 2.2 million people) reported using inhalants within the past year.[4] In 2022, an estimated 3.6 percent of 8th graders, 2.4 percent of 10th graders, and 1.8 percent of 12th graders reported inhalant use in the previous year.
Inhalant Addiction and Abuse
Inhalant abuse and addiction, while less common than some other forms of substance abuse, still present significant risks due to the widespread availability of these substances and their harmful effects on the body.[5] Inhalants are particularly dangerous because they can lead to addiction and severe health consequences even with short-term use.
The addictive potential of inhalants comes from their rapid and intense effects on the central nervous system. When inhaled, these substances quickly enter the bloodstream through the lungs and reach the brain within seconds. This swift onset of euphoria can create a powerful psychological desire to repeat the experience. Additionally, some inhalants affect the brain’s dopamine system, which is associated with reward and pleasure, potentially reinforcing addictive behaviors.
Physiologically, inhalants work by depressing the central nervous system. They replace oxygen in the lungs with toxic chemicals, leading to a brief euphoric state but also causing significant damage to the brain and other organs.[6] Regular use can lead to tolerance, where users need to inhale larger amounts or more frequently to achieve the desired effects, further increasing the risk of addiction and severe health consequences.
The pattern of inhalant abuse often involves episodes of heavy use, which can last several days. Users may experience strong cravings and withdrawal symptoms when not using, including nausea, sweating, tremors, and anxiety. These factors can make it challenging for individuals to stop using inhalants without professional help, even when they recognize the harmful effects on their health and life.
Inhalants Quick Reference Chart
Drug Category
Inhalants
Commercial
& Street Names
Air blast, bold, chroming, discorama, glad, hippie crack, moon gas, oz, poor man's pot, rush, snappers, whippets, whiteout
DEA Schedule
None
Administration
Inhalation
Can You Overdose on Inhalants?
Yes, it is possible to overdose on inhalants. These substances, which include common products like glue, nitrous oxide, and paint thinner, can be extremely dangerous. Overdosing can lead to severe health consequences, such as loss of consciousness and cardiac arrest. Inhalants can cause sudden death due to their effects on the heart and brain, particularly with repeated use or high concentrations.[7] Additionally, long-term abuse can lead to chronic damage to vital organs and neurological impairments.
Immediate medical attention is critical if someone shows signs of an inhalant overdose. When in doubt, call 911 immediately.
What Treatments Are Available for Inhalant Abuse and Addiction?
Evidence-based treatment for inhalant abuse and addiction is vital due to the severe health risks associated with these substances and the complex nature of recovery. The volatile and easily accessible nature of inhalants often makes professional intervention necessary for achieving lasting sobriety.
Able to Change Recovery offers a comprehensive approach across multiple levels of care and addiction treatment programs. We specialize in treating inhalant addiction and withdrawal management by utilizing a range of evidence-based and holistic treatment modalities suited to a person’s recovery needs:
- 12-Step Facilitation Therapy: Introduces clients to the principles of 12-step programs, which can provide ongoing support and community for recovery.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with substance use. CBT is particularly. effective in developing coping strategies to manage cravings and high-risk situations.
- Contingency Management: Provides tangible rewards for positive behaviors like maintaining sobriety. This can be effective in reinforcing the benefits of abstinence from inhalants.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness, helping individuals regulate emotions and improve interpersonal relationships. DBT can be particularly helpful for those who use substances as a way to cope with emotional distress.
- Family Therapy: Involves family members in the treatment process, addressing family dynamics that may contribute to or be affected by substance abuse.
- Group Therapy: Offers peer support and the opportunity to learn from others’ experiences, reducing feelings of isolation common in addiction with group counseling and therapy.
- Holistic Therapy: Incorporates complementary approaches like nutrition, exercise, and meditation to support overall well-being during recovery.
- Individual Therapy: Provides one-on-one support to address personal challenges and develop individualized strategies for lasting recovery.
- Mindfulness-Based Therapies: Teach awareness and acceptance of present-moment experiences, which can be valuable for managing cravings and preventing relapse.
- Motivational Interviewing: A client-centered approach that enhances motivation to change by exploring and resolving ambivalence.
- Trauma-Informed Care: Recognizes the impact of trauma on addiction and incorporates this understanding into all aspects of treatment, creating a safe and supportive environment for healing.
After outpatient treatment at our Southern California treatment facility, patients will be prescribed a strategy for aftercare planning and ongoing support. Our mental health, dual diagnosis, and drug and alcohol rehab center is committed to ensuring patients are supported to begin a safe and sober life anew.
Begin The Recovery Process Today at Our Orange County Drug Rehab
Able To Change works with a number of major insurance providers as an in-network outpatient rehab in Southern California. Our substance abuse and mental health treatment services offer a foundational safe space where patients can kick off their recovery journey with the best possible care and support. With in-network insurance coverage, healing is more accessible than ever. Begin recovery today.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Inhalant Addiction Treatment In Orange County
Common signs of inhalant abuse include sudden, severe mood swings, persistent runny nose or nosebleeds, frequent headaches, and a chemical odor on the breath or clothing. Users might also exhibit unusual behavior, such as reckless actions or a decline in academic or work performance. Physical signs can include slurred speech, poor coordination, and paint or glue stains on the skin or clothing.
Relapse prevention strategies are essential in helping individuals maintain their recovery by identifying high-risk situations and developing coping skills to handle cravings. These strategies often include creating a strong support network, life skills training, engaging in ongoing therapy sessions, setting personal goals, and learning to avoid triggers. Building resilience through these methods helps individuals stay committed to a sober life and reduces the likelihood of returning to substance use.
Signs that a treatment program is effective include noticeable improvements in the individual's behavior and mood, consistent engagement in therapy, and a reduction in the frequency and intensity of substance use. Additionally, successful treatment often leads to better coping strategies, improved relationships, and increased participation in daily activities and responsibilities. Positive feedback from the individual and their support network can also indicate progress.
Yes, effective inhalant addiction treatment often includes addressing co-occurring mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD. Integrated treatment approaches, which simultaneously address both substance use and mental health issues, are crucial for comprehensive recovery. By treating both conditions, individuals can achieve more sustainable recovery outcomes and improve their overall well-being.
[1] Cleveland Clinic. (2019, October 11). Inhalant Abuse: Signs, Symptoms & Treatment. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15742-inhalant-abuse on Septemnber 17, 2024
[2, 3] National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2011, February). What are inhalants? National Institute on Drug Abuse. https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/inhalants on September 17, 2024
[4]Key Substance Use and Mental Health Indicators in the United States: Results from the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. (2022). [Report]. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/reports/rpt39443/2021NSDUHFFRRev010323.pdf on September 17, 2024
[5] Howard, M. O., Bowen, S. E., Garland, E. L., Perron, B. E., & Vaughn, M. G. (2011). Inhalant use and inhalant use disorders in the United States. Addiction Science & Clinical Practice, 6(1), 18–31. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3188822/ on September 17, 2024
[6] Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2010). Information for behavioral health providers in primary care (pp. 1–3). https://www.mirecc.va.gov/cih-visn2/Documents/Provider_Education_Handouts/Inhalants_Information_Sheet_for_BHPs.pdf on September 17, 2024
[7] Inhalants. (2019, November 1). Medlineplus.gov. https://medlineplus.gov/inhalants.html on September 17, 2024