The Dangers of Inhaling ‘Galaxy Gas’: What Parents Should Know

Teens are misusing Galaxy Gas nitrous oxide products to get high, posing serious health risks that parents must be aware of.

What Is Galaxy Gas and How Is It Misused?

Galaxy Gas is a whipped cream charger containing nitrous oxide, intended for culinary uses like making whipped cream.

However, teens are inhaling the gas to experience a brief euphoria, commonly referred to as “doing whippets.”

This misuse bypasses the intended culinary purpose and releases pure nitrous oxide, leading to quick but dangerous highs.

The rise in nitrous oxide misuse can be attributed to its easy availability, often through legitimate culinary outlets, and growing exposure on social media platforms.

Videos featuring users inhaling Galaxy Gas or similar products have gained popularity, encouraging younger viewers to try it themselves, despite the risks.

Also Read: Superbug Crisis Could Lead to Nearly 40 Million Deaths by 2050, New Study Projects

Health Risks of Misusing Nitrous Oxide

Inhaling nitrous oxide outside of a medical setting is dangerous and can have both short- and long-term effects.

Medical professionals typically use nitrous oxide in a controlled environment, mixing it with oxygen to ensure the patient receives a safe dosage.

Misusing it by inhaling quick blasts can lead to:

• Oxygen deprivation: Nitrous oxide blocks the body’s ability to intake oxygen, causing dizziness, headaches, and in severe cases, fainting or death.
• Heart complications: Misuse can cause irregular heartbeats or even heart failure in extreme situations.
• Nerve damage: Long-term misuse can result in permanent nerve damage, causing numbness or weakness in limbs.
• Vitamin B12 deficiency: Prolonged exposure depletes the body’s stores of B12, leading to anemia and neurological issues.

In extreme cases, overuse of nitrous oxide can cause brain damage, loss of coordination, and in some instances, it may be fatal.

Why Are Teens Drawn to It?

Several factors contribute to why teens are turning to Galaxy Gas and other nitrous oxide products:

• Social Media Influence: Platforms like TikTok and Instagram expose teens to videos that normalize or glamorize nitrous oxide misuse. Despite efforts by social media companies to block such content, users find ways around restrictions, making it accessible to impressionable viewers.
• Peer Pressure and Curiosity: Adolescents are naturally curious and more susceptible to peer influence. The desire to fit in or try something new can push teens to experiment with substances like nitrous oxide, especially when it seems as harmless as a whipped cream charger.
• Flavors and Accessibility: The flavored options of whipped cream chargers can make them more appealing to younger users. Since these products are easily available for culinary purposes, teens find it relatively simple to obtain them without raising suspicion.

Also Read: Understanding the Silent Epidemic of Suicide: Key Insights for World Suicide Prevention Day

How to Recognize Nitrous Oxide Misuse

As a parent, it’s essential to stay alert to the signs that your child may be misusing nitrous oxide.

Common indicators include:

• Empty whipped cream chargers or canisters found in your child’s room or belongings.
• Sudden fits of laughter or unexplained euphoria after spending time alone.
• Frequent complaints of dizziness, headaches, or feeling lightheaded.
• A noticeable decline in academic performance or a sudden change in social behavior, including isolating themselves or spending more time with new friends exhibiting similar behaviors.

Other warning signs could include missing whipped cream chargers from your kitchen, or if your child suddenly asks for such products with no apparent interest in culinary use.

How to Talk to Your Kids About Nitrous Oxide Misuse

Having an open conversation with your child about the risks of nitrous oxide misuse is crucial for prevention.

Here are some tips on how to approach the topic:

• Start the conversation early: Don’t wait until you suspect an issue. Begin discussing the risks of substance misuse during the pre-teen years, as this is when curiosity and peer pressure often begin.
• Ask open-ended questions: Engage your child with questions like, “Have you heard of Galaxy Gas being misused?” or “What do you think about people using substances they see on social media?” This allows them to express their views and opens the door for a deeper conversation.
• Emphasize the real dangers: Help them understand that nitrous oxide misuse can cause serious health consequences, even if it looks fun or harmless in online videos. Remind them that the negative effects aren’t always shown and can happen unexpectedly.
• Provide reassurance: Ensure that your child knows they can come to you without judgment if they have questions or concerns about substance use, or if they or their friends are exposed to it. Encourage them to reach out for help before trying something they see online.

Also Read: What Is Stockholm Syndrome? Understanding the Psychological Phenomenon

Prevention and Seeking Help

Preventing nitrous oxide misuse starts with awareness and vigilance. As a parent, be mindful of what’s in your home, especially everyday products that could be misused.

If you suspect your child has already experimented with nitrous oxide or other substances, seeking help from a mental health professional or substance abuse counselor may be necessary.

Early intervention is critical for addressing the underlying issues that lead to substance misuse. Getting the right support can help your child understand the risks and avoid long-term consequences.