The number of patients suffering from severe nerve damage in Ireland has skyrocketed as party-goers inhale nitrous oxide - laughing gas - for fun.
These statistics were confirmed by a neurology specialist at the Mater Hospital who said that 'laughing gas' is growing in popularity as a recreational drug.
Dr. Esther Macken said people are inhaling it for a quick ‘rush’ and feelings of euphoria which last up to 30 seconds.
