Inhalant Use

Overview
The vapors of common household chemicals are often used by by alarmingly increasing number of teenagers and young adults for the purpose of getting high. Among teenagers, this practice is known as "huffing." These household items are often harmless when used safely for their intended purpose. However, many parents are unaware that their teenagers may be using these household items in ways that may be lethal. Inhalants act on the brain and destroy the outer lining of nerve cells, making it impossible for those cells to communicate.

Symptoms
Symptoms of huffing include red or runny eyes and nose, blisters or rash around the nose or mouth, chronic cough, nausea and headaches, disorientation, chemical odor on breath and failing grades in school. After only 6 months of use, the brain, lungs, nerves, liver, kidneys and bones may be permanently damaged. Death can suddenly occur after huffing. The frequency of huffing may not be a factor and some teenagers can die during the first time that they experiment with inhalants.

Legal Risks
There are laws to regulate inhalants. Depending on state and local laws, and the type of inhalant used, a user may risk a fine and even a prison term. This can be a big problem for teenagers who plan to apply for a job or for college.

Prevention
Education on the parts of parents and children is key. Parents are often in the dark about huffing, and many have never even heard of the practice. Parents should be educated and alert to the signs and symptoms of huffing. Children should also be educated about the toxicity of inhalants, starting at a young age. Discuss the short-term as well as the long-term detriments of huffing with your child.

Treatment
If someone you know is huffing, the best thing to do is remain calm and seek help. If the person is not breathing, start rescue breathing. Make sure the room is well ventilated, open any windows and call 911 in the United States and Canada. The National Inhalant Prevention Coalition can help you find a local treatment center, and is also an invaluable resource for more information on huffing. Their telephone number is (800) 269-4327.