F18.288

Clinical Causes: Frequent and prolonged inhalant use, leading to physical dependence Psychological factors such as stress or the desire to escape from difficult life circumstances Availability of inhalant substances like solvents, gases, or aerosols Peer pressure or social environment encouraging inhalant use Underlying mental health conditions that increase vulnerability to substance use

Key Symptoms: Craving or strong desire to use inhalants Inability to control or reduce inhalant use despite negative effects Neglect of responsibilities at work, school, or home Use of inhalants in hazardous situations, such as while driving Tolerance, needing increased amounts to achieve the desired effect Withdrawal symptoms when not using inhalants Cognitive impairments, such as memory issues or difficulty concentrating Physical signs like chemical odors on breath or clothing, dizziness, or coordination problems

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis involves a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional, including a detailed history of inhalant use, assessment of dependence symptoms, and cognitive testing. Medical professionals may use standardized questionnaires and clinical criteria aligned with ICD-10 guidelines to determine the severity and presence of neurocognitive impairment. Laboratory tests may be conducted to detect inhalant-related substances or health effects.

Treatment Protocols: Detoxification to safely manage withdrawal symptoms under medical supervision Psychosocial therapies such as counseling, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), or family therapy Support groups to provide peer support and encouragement Addressing co-occurring mental health issues like anxiety or depression Monitoring and managing physical health problems related to inhalant use Long-term follow-up to prevent relapse and support recovery