Question: My husband loves to tinker in the garage and is always using chemicals. Is this bad for his brain?
Dr. Amen's Answer:
Inhaling organic solvents is one of the worst things for brain function. The worst brains I have ever seen are those of people who are addicted to inhalants.
I’m not insinuating that your husband is inhaling chemicals to get high. But being in an enclosed area while using chemicals can harm brain function severely.
A 1998 study from Korean researchers in the Journal of Nuclear Medicine used SPECT imaging to scan the brain of a 17-year-old youth who was addicted to inhaling toluene. Toluene is a chemical solvent commonly used in paint thinners, glue, lacquers, disinfectants, and other household products.
The youth, who had been inhaling toluene for eight months, was admitted to the hospital with hallucinations. SPECT scans showed decreased blood flow in several areas, which explained his symptoms.
Inhalants are terrible for your brain. Stay away from them and make sure you have great ventilation when you paint or use chemicals.
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