When experiencing dizziness, faintness, or nasal congestion that makes it difficult to breathe, inhalants are often the first choice because inhaling them usually alleviates these symptoms.

What Types of Inhalants Are There?

There are two types of inhalants: ammonia solution and solutions containing various essential oils, such as menthol and camphor. Menthol has a pleasant aroma and creates a cooling sensation when it comes into contact with the skin.

Camphor has a refreshing scent and was originally extracted from the camphor tree, but nowadays it is often synthesized because it is easier and cheaper than extracting it from plants. Additionally, camphor also provides a cooling sensation upon contact with the skin, similar to menthol.

What Causes Inhalant Addiction and How Dangerous Is It to Health?

“Inhalant addiction” occurs when someone frequently inhales inhalants even without symptoms like nasal congestion, dizziness, or faintness. This is caused by certain chemicals used in production, such as menthol and camphor, which affect the nervous system and can lead to addiction. However, this behavior is more of a habitual dependency rather than a psychological condition.

That said, frequent inhalation of these substances can irritate the mucous membranes in the nasal passages due to exposure to concentrated scents. Moreover, inhaling menthol or mint flakes, which are often components of inhalants, at high concentrations and continuously can also lead to pneumonia.

How to Use Inhalants Properly

The correct way to use inhalants is to avoid giving them to children under 6 years old. They can inhale it nearby, but it should not come into direct contact with the nose, nor should the inhaler be inserted into the nose for prolonged periods, as all substances can cause irritation upon contact with the skin. Inhalants should be stored at room temperature, out of reach of children and away from sunlight.

Additionally, it is important to regularly check the expiration date of inhalants and to avoid sharing inhalers with others, as contact with someone else's nose can lead to infections. If severe symptoms occur from using inhalants, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly.

Source: pharmacy.mahidol.ac.th / pobpad.com

SOURCE: tonkit360