Source: National PTA

The voluntary inhalation of toxic substances for the purpose of mood alteration (getting high) is not new. As early as the 1800s substances such as ether, chloroform and nitrous oxide were used as intoxicants. Glue sniffing has endured for decades. In the 1960s the use of aerosols was widespread. At the same time, sniffing aerosol propellants became a source of a quick high.

Once thought to be a problem only for the poor and neglected, inhalant use, also known as huffing and sniffing, is becoming increasingly common among middle class youth. The federal government estimates that there are 1.8 million inhalant users who are in immediate danger. In Great Britain, which keeps track of sniffing deaths, one in five inhalant fatalities is a first-time user!

Inhalants are often the first substances abused by children, who are unaware of the immediate and long-term dangers. Them may begin sniffing out of curiosity or from pressure by friends. Unfortunately, the list of readily available legal substances that can be purchased or found around the house is almost limitless. And any single episode can be fatal. Furthermore, because inhalants are not glamour drugs, public awareness of their use is low. In fact, most inhalants are not drugs at all but powerful chemical toxins that have no medicinal application.

The following are some of the most popular products inhaled:

• Fabric protectors
• Acetone products such as nail polish and polish removers
• Nitrous oxide, in particular whippets
• Vegetable cooking sprays
• Liquid correction fluid
• Halon fire extinguishers
• Felt-tip markers
• Glues and adhesives
• Butane
• Gasoline
• Air fresheners
• Propane gas
• VCR head cleaner
• Spray paint
• Lacquers
• Hair sprays
• Paint thinners
• Spray oil
• Automobile carburetor cleaner

The Telltale Signs of Inhalant Use

Know the telltale signs of inhalant abuse. Make sure your teachers recognize them too. Your children should also know them in case their friends are in danger. Here are possible warning signs of inhalant abuse:

• Red or runny nose
• Sores or a rash around the mouth or nose
• Nausea and headaches
• Chronic cough
• Sudden memory loss and lack of concentration
• Chemical smell on the breath, clothes or in the bedroom
• Paint stains on the clothing or skin
• Correction fluid stains under the fingernails
• Soft drink cans, rags or sandwich bags with a chemical smell

And don't forget the other signs that are indicative of any type of substance abuse:

• Abrupt changes in school work and attendance
• Changes in personal hygiene
• Extreme mood swings
• Red, irritated eyes
• Sudden weight loss
• Sudden loss of interest in friends, sports or hobbies

Talk to Your Children about Inhalant Use

Remember, the most effective way to fight inhalant abuse is through preventive education. Children must be taught early about responsible use of products containing solvents and should be supervised initially while they use them. They must learn about the dangers of sniffing before it occurs to them to try it or before another child urges or dares them to experiment. Parents and teachers must be aware of potentially dangerous products, educate children about the dangers, and watch for signs of abuse.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

For more information and resources on inhalant use, contact:

National Inhalant Prevention Coalition
1201 W. Sixth Street
Suite C-200
Austin, TX 78703
(800) 269-4237
(512) 480-8953
e-mail: nipc@io.com

National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD)
12 West 21st Street
New York, NY 10010
(212) 206-6770

National Institute on Drug Abuse
5600 Fishers Lane
Park Lawn Bldg., Room 9A-53
Rockville, MD 20857
(301) 443-6504