POLICE in Oswestry have warned of the dangers posed by inhaling nitrous oxide after eight large containers were seized from an unknown garden in the town.

Officers from the Oswestry Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) posted online warnings about the two-litre canisters being used to obtain an illegal high.

A spokesman for the SNT added that help is available to those who might be addicted to the canisters which is also known as laughing gas, Hippie Crack, Noz, Whippets or Balloons.

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They said: “NOS is a colourless gas sold in canisters, usually inhaled using a balloon. 

 “Nitrous oxide slows down your brain and your body’s responses, and the effects of the drug varies depending on how much has been inhaled.

“Taking nitrous oxide can cause feelings of euphoria, relaxation and calmness; fits of giggles and laughter – hence the nickname ‘laughing gas’ as well as sound distortions and hallucinations – when you see or hear things that aren’t there.

“Nitrous oxide can also give you a severe headache; cause dizziness; stop you thinking straight and cause short-lived but intense feelings of paranoia.

“Heavy regular use of nitrous oxide can lead to a deficiency of vitamin B12 and to a form of anaemia.

“This can be very painful and make walking difficult. It can even lead to paralysis, and the damage may be lasting.

“Regular use can stop you forming white blood cells properly.

“It can be hard to judge the amount to use safely. If you have too much you can end up fainting, having an accident or worse.

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“These containers were seized from a garden in Oswestry, you may find the smaller ones laying on the ground. 

“They are dangerous and not designed for the purpose people are using them for.”

 For more information contact Frank at talktofrank.com or contact your local GP.