Although social media has dramatically improved people’s ability to connect with one another, it has also expedited young people’s exploration of new and dangerous ways to get high. One example is “whippets,” slang for nitrous oxide packaged in canisters. Galaxy Gas is a well-known brand that produces flavored whipped cream chargers and dispensers that are considered whippets by those who struggle with inhalant abuse. With its increasing popularity comes an increase in the number of high schoolers admitted into hospitals for nitrous oxide-related complications.
If you’re a parent or guardian, you must dig deeper into what exactly whippets are, what makes them so dangerous, and how to tell if someone in your life might be abusing whippets. If you or a younger loved one is having difficulty quitting whippets, Promises Brazos Valley offers comprehensive inhalant drug rehab in Texas, including inpatient and outpatient care.
Understanding Whippets
Whippets are popular inhalants that come in tiny metal canisters containing nitrous oxide. Also referred to as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is also used as a medical and dental anesthetic before procedures such as wisdom teeth removal.
Although the drug has been used for recreational purposes since the 18th century, it’s experienced a recent surge in popularity in the form of Galaxy Gas. This brand comes in a variety of flavors intended to infuse whipped cream. However, many people purchasing Galaxy Gas use it to get high rather than enhance their dessert.
Several aspects of nitrous oxide make it more popular with teens:
- Because it’s colorless and odorless, it’s less likely to draw suspicion from others than the distinguishable smells of alcohol or marijuana.
- It’s easy to obtain since it’s sold in many local stores and online.
- It’s promoted to young people through social media videos, showing teens getting high on Galaxy Gas.
Although it may seem like a fun party drug, nitrous oxide can have many dangerous side effects.
What Are the Risks of Abusing Whippets and Other Inhalants?
If you or someone you know is using whippets to get high, you should be aware of the following severe health consequences of these and other inhalants:
Cognitive impairment – Inhalants can impair cognitive function, affecting memory, concentration, and decision-making skills.
Neurological damage – Chronic inhalant abuse can impact your nervous system, causing potential nerve damage along with numbness and tingling sensations.
Heart problems – Inhaling whippets can lead to chest pain, irregular heart rhythms, and an increased risk of heart attack.
Oxygen deprivation – Nitrous oxide deprives your brain of oxygen, which can cause dizziness, shortness of breath, and potential loss of consciousness.
Risky behavior – Abusing inhalants is a risky behavior in itself. Still, when under the influence of nitrous oxide, you’re more likely to engage in other dangerous activities like driving while high.
Addiction – Over time, you can develop a psychological dependence on nitrous oxide, which will make it much more challenging to quit.
What Are the Signs of Inhalant Abuse?
If someone is abusing whippets or other inhalants, there are usually visible signs like:
- Loss of coordination
- Dizziness
- Slurred speech
- Nausea and vomiting
- Delusions
The person may also complain of headaches, tiredness, a tingling sensation, or rapid heartbeat. It’s possible to overdose on nitrous oxide, so be on alert for whether the person has a wheezing cough, choking, or a bluish tint to their lips or fingers. An overdose can be deadly, so it’s vital to reach out for emergency assistance as soon as you suspect someone might be overdosing on inhalants.
Connect with Promises Brazos Valley and Start on Drug Rehab in Texas Today
Inhalants can be detrimental to one’s health, but unfortunately, the dangers aren’t always enough to deter teens from experimenting with whippets. Talk to the young people in your life about the long-term consequences and where to go if they need help with inhalant abuse. Promises Brazos Valley is here to support you and your loved ones through recovery—complete our online contact form or call us at 979.426.0086 today.