A recent report from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration shows that 12-year-olds are now using inhalants more than cocaine, hallucinogens, and marijunan combined.  The reason?  Availability.  Common household products from air fresheners to shoe polish can be huffed for a short-lived but intense high.  And the biggest problems is that only one use can cause death.

"Young people do not always realize the consequences of their actions. However, it is possible to die from trying inhalants even once. 'Sudden sniffing death' causes the heart to beat rapidly, which can result in cardiac arrest."

So, how do you know if your child is experimenting with inhalants?  Here are some common symptoms of abuse.

• Discarded household containers, whipped cream can containers, or lighters.  Glue, shoe polish, spray paints, gasoline, and lighter fluid are the most commonly abused substances in the 12-15 age group.


• Paint or stains on face, hands, and clothing. 


• Possession of rags, bags, clothing, or balloons soaked in chemicals.


• Symptoms of intoxication, such as dazed appearance, dizziness, drunkeness, or drowsiness.


• Sores on mouth.


• Red and runny eyes and nose.


• Anxiety and/or irritability.


• Odor of chemicals on breath or person.


• Nausea.

So, what do you do if you suspect your child is abusing chemicals?

First, make sure you talk to your children about the extreme dangers of inhalant use and the potential of fatalities, nerve and brain damage, organ failure, and hearing loss before you suspect any huffing. 

If you do approach your child while he is under the influence, make sure not to stress him, as this can cause irregular heartbeat leading to possible death.  Users of inhalants might also become violent while under the influence.  If necessary, involve immediate medical care.

Inhalant use and abuse is very serious and life threatening.  Seek counseling and/or an inhalant treatment program if your child is huffing, as inhalants are addictive and can cause withdrawal symptoms that include seizures, vomiting, and hallucinations.  Without treatment, users can spend hours a day inhaling chemicals.

Are inhalants are concern to you?  Has your child used them or know of peers who have?