What Is Nitrous Oxide?
A substance known as nitrous oxide can prove beneficial to the human body. Also commonly referred to as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is an odorless gas that is used for a variety of purposes.
Common Usages
Arguably, nitrous oxide is most commonly used as a sedative administered to individuals undergoing various dental procedures. Additionally, the gas is sometimes also given to patients receiving certain surgical interventions. Nitrous oxide is administered with a mixture of oxygen and is never given at 100% concentration.
Nitrous oxide elicits a feeling of euphoria and calmness that may make certain individuals impervious to pain. This is particularly true of those undergoing minor dental or medical procedures. Typically, the impact of the drug is experienced within minutes of administration and ceases shortly after the inhalation of the drug ends.
Potential Side Effects
For the most part, the administration of nitrous oxide/oxygen is believed to be safe and often occurs without incident. That said and, as with any drug, nitrous oxide does possess the potential to precipitate certain immediate and potentially long-term side effects.
Immediate Impacts
In the immediate aftermath of inhaling the gas, most people experience a feeling of calm and a slight high. However, these feelings are normal and typically wear off once the administration is stopped. Untoward issues arise from inhaling either an excessive concentration of the substance or ingesting the gas too quickly. In such instances, affected individuals might experience physical manifestations such as vertigo, headaches, increased perspiration, lightheadedness, nausea, and vomiting. In less common cases, those afflicted might experience hallucinations.
Following the administration of the nitrous oxide/oxygen mixture, 100% oxygen is given for several minutes to ensure the substance is removed from the recipient’s bloodstream.
In rare circumstances, specific individuals might possess a nitrous oxide allergy. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include skin hives, breathing difficulties, elevated body temperature, and chills.
Long-Term Effects
If used properly, nitrous oxide usually does not produce any adverse long-term impacts. That said, because the drug has the potential to elicit euphoric highs, some people might misuse the drug for recreational purposes. Chronic usage of nitrous oxide may precipitate the development of various vitamin deficiencies, anemia, and nerve damage.