Inhalants are not detected by routine urine drug screenings, but they can be easily detectable by a gas chromatography technique. These inhalants can be detected by specific urine tests that trace the presence of benzene, toluene, and ethyl benzene. If you suspect that a loved one is suffering from an addiction to inhalants, consult a doctor immediately.

Sign

Inhalant addiction and abuse may begin in early childhood, when young people may have experienced neglect and abuse. Physical addiction is a natural consequence of such abuse, and the user may experience insomnia, tremors, and nausea when the inhalant is suddenly withdrawn. Other physical withdrawal symptoms include anxiety, depression, and seizures. People who abuse inhalants may develop mood disorders as well. They may be unable to function in their daily lives and may resort to drug abuse.

Other inhalants that can cause addiction include paint thinner, alcohol, lighter fluid, and aerosols. Inhalant abuse has been associated with higher rates in individuals who have undergone physical or sexual abuse. The use of inhalants has also been linked to higher rates of depression, criminal behavior, and suicidal thoughts. Inhalants are widely available and easy to obtain, and they can even be made from everyday household items. Moreover, they are legal and easy to conceal.

A comprehensive treatment plan for inhalant addiction begins with stabilizing the patient and ensuring he or she receives medical care. Afterward, the patient may undergo therapy to learn why they began abusing the inhalants and deal with the underlying causes. Teens suffering from inhalant abuse may need a specialist who specializes in treating this specific disorder. And for those who are too young to get help, residential rehabilitation may be the best option.

Symptoms

Inhalant abuse and addiction may start as early as childhood. Parents should watch for their children sniffing volatile substances. They should also be aware of their loved ones' behavior changes. Keep a record of the volatile substances they purchase, and note any lingering smells. Keep an eye out for loss of interest in activities, altered reality, and changes in appetite. It's important to seek help and seek professional treatment when these signs become prominent.

Inhalants can cause long-term effects, including heart problems, burns, and frostbite. Some substances are so toxic that they can cause a sudden death, known as "sniffing death syndrome." This happens when a person inhales solvents. It can happen for the first time, or the thousandth. In cases like these, it is crucial to seek treatment and remove the addicted individual from their toxic environment. A licensed clinician can assess the level of inhalant abuse in a patient and prescribe the appropriate treatment for their condition.

Once an addict is diagnosed with inhalant addiction, treatment will include detoxification, peer-patient advocacy, development of strengths, and a successful transition back into society. The addict's family and friends must be encouraged to intervene. If the addict refuses to admit to their addiction, an intervention may be necessary to persuade them that they need help. Once the addiction has been identified, it will begin to cause physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms. Headaches, fatigue, and irritability are common signs of withdrawal.

Treatment

Inhalants, or the chemicals they're made up of, are not detectable by routine urine drug screenings, which makes them a particularly difficult drug to diagnose. However, abusers of inhalants may display signs of drug dependence, such as altered appetite, weight loss, or a lack of interest in hobbies. They may also develop ulcers around the mouth and nose, or show odors in their clothing and skin.

Inhalant abuse therapy may take several weeks. The first phase may include detoxification, which will rid the body of the toxins that trigger the addiction. Patients may begin treatment with as few as two or three 15-minute sessions each week, but this can increase to several hours per session. The length of therapy sessions will depend on the person's progress and mental state. Some inhalants are so addictive that even a single use can lead to fatal consequences.

Inpatient rehab programs provide an environment conducive to recovery, reducing the temptation to use inhalants. Once in a rehab program, inhalant abuse treatment is ongoing. Among the primary tools used in treating inhalant addiction are therapy and support groups. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps people overcome psychological problems that are brought on by chronic abuse of Inhalants. It helps people understand their own brain's reaction to these substances, which is the basis of addiction.