Air duster, or canned air, is actually a liquid canned under pressure and commonly used to clean household electronics. While this product may seem harmless, it can be dangerous when used as an inhalant rather than as a cleaner. Air duster is a commonly misused drug among young people.
Inhalant drug use is much more common than people realize, especially among adolescents. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health reported in 2010 that 800,000 people aged 12 and up had used an inhalant for the first time within the previous year. Inhalants like air duster can be the first type of drug that a teen might misuse because it is fairly easy to get. Air duster inhalation may make the user feel excited and euphoric for a short time, which makes it tempting to use over and over. Huffing canned air even one time poses a risk of developing an air duster addiction.
Is Air Duster Addictive?
If you are concerned that someone you know is abusing canned air, you may have asked, “How addictive is air duster?” Are there any signs to look for to identify air duster addiction? The following symptoms may indicate air duster abuse:
- Disorientation or seeming drunk
- Chemical residue or odors on hands or clothing
- Finding empty air duster cans
- Slurred speech
- Nausea
- Mood swings
- Depression
- Lack of coordination
- Problems with concentration
Long-term Effects of Air Duster Use
It’s easy to think that huffing air duster is not dangerous because the product is so common and easy to get. However, if a person inhales the chemicals long-term, disastrous side effects can occur. Here are some long-term side effects that may result from air duster addiction:
- Permanent brain damage
- Damage to the sensory and motor systems
- Hearing loss
- Long-term slurred speech
- Toxicity of bone marrow
- Vision problems
- Tremors
- Liver, kidney, heart, and lung damage
- Death
Air Duster Treatment Help
If you or someone you know has started to misuse canned air, seek air duster addiction treatment right away. Therapy at a professional drug rehabilitation center can help your loved one overcome this problem and return to a normal life. While leaving home and family can sometimes be difficult, getting away can often provide new a perspective and aid in the healing process. United Recovery Project in Florida offers air duster addiction treatment and welcomes those suffering in other cities and states. Don’t wait any longer to get the help you need. For more information, visit their website here.