What to Do If You Are Addicted to Inhalants? Risks of Frequent Use and Safe Usage Tips

For those who are addicted to inhalants should be cautious. Excessive inhalation can cause nasal cavity inflammation. This article examines the reasons why we can’t stop inhaling and offers solutions to break the habit and recommendations for safe use.

Inhalants are a staple item for Thais of all ages, especially in hot and humid weather that easily causes dizziness. Using inhalants helps one feel refreshed and clears the nasal passages. However, many people develop the habit of being “addicted to inhalants.” Some even feel the need to inhale every 5 minutes or keep the inhalant tube in their mouth all the time. Does this behavior harm health, and how can it be remedied? This article provides the answers.

Why are Thais “addicted to inhalants”?

Most inhalants contain menthol, camphor, borneol, and eucalyptus oil. These substances stimulate nerve endings, creating a cooling sensation, clearing nasal passages, and increasing alertness.

Medically, inhalant addiction is not a physical chemical dependency, but a “psychological dependence.” It is a habit formed when feeling stressed, sleepy, or exposed to hot weather. The body remembers that inhaling makes one feel better, prompting repeated use until it becomes routine.

Is frequent inhalant use dangerous? Risks to watch for

Although it is not life-threatening, excessive or intense inhalant use can affect the respiratory system. Medical and public health sources highlight these impacts:

• Nasal mucosa inflammation High concentrations of camphor and menthol directly contacting the nasal cavity frequently can dry, irritate, and inflame the nasal lining.
• Irritation of the respiratory tract Intense inhalation may allow vapors to reach the bronchi, causing coughing or breathing difficulties, especially in asthma patients.
• Risks to young children Inhalants should not be used by children under 6 years old, as their nasal mucosa is delicate and highly susceptible to severe irritation.

How to overcome inhalant addiction? Tips to reduce constant inhaling

Those wishing to lessen inhalant dependence can easily adjust their behavior as follows:

1. Reduce frequency Instead of inhaling every 10 minutes, gradually extend intervals and only use inhalants when feeling dizzy or lightheaded.

2. Find alternative activities When craving inhalants, try sipping cold water, sucking on candy, or stretching to relieve drowsiness and stress.

3. Change environment If in a crowded or very hot place, step outside to a shaded, breezy area to breathe fresh air.

4. Avoid inserting the inhalant tube into the nostrils This behavior exposes the nasal mucosa to concentrated vapors constantly and should be stopped completely.

Proper and safe inhalant use

• Do not insert the inhalant tube directly into the nasal cavity.
• Hold the inhalant tube close to the nose, about 1-2 centimeters away, and inhale slowly.
• For liquid inhalants, drop them onto a handkerchief or tissue and inhale from it instead of direct skin contact.
• Do not share inhalants with others to prevent respiratory infections.

Inhalants are beneficial herbal remedies if used properly. Being addicted to inhalants is not unusual, but excessive or improper use can damage the nasal cavity over time. Changing habits and reducing inhalation frequency will help you use inhalants safely and maintain good health.