Doctors are warning about the dangerous rise of whippets—nitrous oxide canisters—after a 23-year-old showed up at UVA Health with a sore throat that turned out to be frostbite in his mouth and throat.
The man had inhaled whippets at a party, which led to swollen vocal cords and ulceration. UVA doctors say this isn’t rare—and the risks go far beyond sore throats. Doctors say whippets can be extremely harmful, especially with repeated use. Risks include fainting, low oxygen levels, lung damage, and blood clots. Long-term effects may involve nerve damage, memory issues, and even paralysis.
Though the patient appeared to recover after treatment, he did not return for follow-up care. Medical experts emphasize the importance of being open with your doctor about any unusual symptoms or drug use so that early intervention is possible.
SOURCE: WHSV3