Inhalants are usually common household items that are sniffed or huffed and absorbed through the lungs to produce a high. They exist in gas, aerosol, and solvent form and include items such as glue, hairspray, paint, toxic markers, cleaning products, nail polish, and gasoline. Due to the fact that these items are easily accessible, inhaling, or huffing is a growing trend among young kids. However, this practice is not limited to any certain age group.
Some people use inhalants as a cost efficient alternative to other mind altering drugs. They may consider huffing to be safer because the products being used are not illegal. Studies show that few kids between the ages of 10 and 12 realize the dangers of inhalants. However, an estimated 7% of kids admit to huffing dangerous substances by the age of 12.
Inhalants can cause suffocation by lack of oxygen, cardiac arrest, or aspiration of vomit. Sudden death can occur from even a single use. Butane is one of the most commonly misused solvents, accounting for more than 50% of the solvent related deaths in some countries. Substantial brain damage is not uncommon with inhalant abuse. Plus, huffing makes the body's lungs more susceptible to illness and can be addictive. The euphoric feeling that results has been known to draw many people to consistent use. The repeated abuse of inhalants to get high poses even greater health risks.
Awareness needs to be raised to all age groups about the dangers of huffing. Parents often talk to their kids about illegal drugs, but neglect to consider the dangerous substances in their homes. If you or someone you know is using inhalants to get high, contact a professional for help immediately. It is a self destructive behavior in which one is gambling with their life.
