Description
The intentional inhalation of chemical vapors to attain a psychological "high" or euphoric effect. A wide variety of substances, including many common household products, are abused by inhalers. This type of drug abuse is commonly called "huffing".
Symptoms
Drowsiness, lightheadedness, hallucinations, loss of inhibition, irritability, sudden cardiac death.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Other substance abuse needs to be ruled out.
Tests:
Pregnancy (BHCG) test, Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Troponin, Urinalysis (UA), X-ray
Other Specific Tests: Serum alcohol, urine and serum toxicology screen
Specialists:
Pediatric and Adolescent Psychiatry, Addiction Psychiatry, Medical Toxicology, Addiction Medicine
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Other substance abuse needs to be ruled out.
Tests:
Pregnancy (BHCG) test, Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Troponin, Urinalysis (UA), X-ray
Other Specific Tests: Serum alcohol, urine and serum toxicology screen
Specialists:
Pediatric and Adolescent Psychiatry, Addiction Psychiatry, Medical Toxicology, Addiction Medicine
Treatment
Symptomatic treatment for the presenting condition, but long term behavioral treatment is necessary for stopping the abusive habit.