Today’s youth thrive on social media and are particularly susceptible to viral trends. One such viral trend surrounds a substance known as galaxy gas. Countless young people observe other young people using this dangerous inhalant, and many feel compelled to copy the risky behavior. Use of this inhalant can be fatal, so it is essential to understand what galaxy gas is and the risks associated with this and other inhalants so you can recognize if a young person in your life needs help.
Protect your loved ones from the dangers of inhalant abuse by encouraging them to seek help at Hill Country. Find out more about our substance abuse treatment near San Antonio by calling us at 1.844.675.1628.
What Is Galaxy Gas?
While galaxy gas has come to be known for the nitrous oxide product that is abused by inhaling the gas, the name originated from the company Galaxy Gas, which created whipped cream chargers used in culinary settings to transform liquid cream into whipped cream. The whipped cream chargers are available in various enticing flavors, like watermelon lemonade and vanilla cupcakes, making them ripe for abuse among young people.
How does it work? Similar to a canister of whipped cream, galaxy gas contains pressurized nitrous oxide gas. With no cream or other product in the canister besides the gas, people inhale the gas to achieve a euphoric high.
It has become a popular craze, with many videos demonstrating this behavior on social media, prompting great concern since the practice can be particularly dangerous. Even more alarming is the widespread availability of galaxy gas, which is also sold under different brand names and can be easily purchased at a local store or online.
Signs of Whippet Abuse
Galaxy gas is not the first drug of its kind. Before these flavored canisters were on the market, there were whippets, which can be recognized by their tiny metal canisters. The name whippet originates from their resemblance to the whipped cream canisters you would find on the grocery store shelf.
If you suspect someone in your life might be abusing inhalants, here are some indicators that they may be participating in galaxy gas or whippet abuse:
Unusual chemical smells on clothing or the breath
- Slurred speech
- Nose bleeds
- Fatigue
- Confusion
- Irritated skin around the nose
- Irritability
- Paranoia
If the signs above look familiar, it is time to talk with your loved one about this harmful practice.
What Are the Risks of Inhalant Abuse?
Abusing inhalants like galaxy gas and whippets can be especially dangerous. However, many young people may not realize this since they witness their peers online laughing and having fun while using these substances. The dark side of inhalant abuse is not often shown in these videos. Some of the risks associated with using inhalants include:
Organ Damage
Prolonged use of inhalants can damage vital organs like your heart, liver, brain, and kidneys.
Mental Health Issues
Galaxy gas abuse puts you at risk of anxiety and depression, among other mental health conditions like neurocognitive disorder, inhalant-induced psychotic disorder, and inhalant intoxication delirium, which can cause sudden changes in perception.
Cognitive Impairment
Inhalant abuse can lead to brain hypoxia, a condition in which the brain is deprived of oxygen. This can cause memory loss and difficulty learning.
Fatality
A lack of oxygen to the heart due to inhalant abuse can lead to sudden sniffing death syndrome, which can happen to anyone, even if it is the first time using inhalants.
Get Help for Inhalant Abuse at Hill Country Today
Help stop the dangerous trend of galaxy gas abuse by talking to the young people in your life about the risks associated with abusing inhalants. If someone you love is addicted to these or other substances, reach out to Hill Country at 1.844.675.1628 or complete the online form to schedule an intake assessment and discuss which of our programs is most suitable.