Inhalant Abuse: Teens Prefer "Huffing" To Get High
Inhalant abuse is a drug problem that is taking America’s youth by storm. It is one of the fastest growing forms of drug abuse because in many cases, the materials are already in the home. This results in a form of drug abuse that’s both inexpensive and readily available; the perfect breeding ground for a nationwide drug problem of epidemic proportions.
Who’s Susceptible to Inhalant Abuse?
According to the National Inhalant Prevention Coalition, one out of every five American students has used inhalants to get high before reaching the eighth grade. The studies all point to the fact that inhalant abuse is a drug problem that targets kids to young adults.
What Types of Products are Being Used for Inhalant Abuse?
Virtually any chemical product that gives off breathable vapors can be abused. This includes:
- Glue
- Gasoline
- Spray paint / paint thinner
- Dry cleaning chemicals
- Furniture polish
- Spray can air freshener
- Deodorant sprays
- Aerosol whipped cream
- Propane gas
- Cooking sprays and more
The Dangers of Inhalant Abuse
Inhalant abuse can form rather quickly as the effects of huffing the inhalant does not last very long, sometimes only a few minutes. This short-acting euphoric effect means that most users will be prompted to use more of the chemical more frequently. Over time and through prolonged abuse, huffing inhalants can cause brain damage, liver disease, kidney disease, hearing loss, bone marrow loss and damage to the central nervous system.
Other risks involve Sudden Sniffing Death and suffocation (in cases where the individual uses a bag to inhale the captured vapors).
Recognizing the Signs of Inhalant Abuse
If a parent believes that their child is huffing inhalants, there are certain signs that they can use to help them make that determination. First, the child may have sores around their mouth or very runny eyes. They will also usually have paint or other chemical stains on their clothing or carry around markers or have bags filled with cotton balls or rags.
The actual effects of huffing can cause the user to act intoxicated, anxious, excitable or paranoid. They will also lose their appetite, withdrawal from their family and friends and lose interest in things that were once important to them.
Can Inhalant Abuse be Treated?
Luckily, most kids can be educated about the dangers of huffing and they may be able to stop using on their own. However, in some cases, the child won’t stop and it will be up to the parent to get them into treatment for inhalant addiction.
If you are looking for more advice or you want to learn how to get treatment for your child suffering from inhalant abuse, call 877-794-0381 today. Our helpline is toll-free, confidential and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Don’t let your child’s inhalant abuse get any worse, their health depends on your action – call now 877-794-0381!
