Inhalant Abuse

By , June 2006

Inhalant or solvent abuse involves purposefully sniffing common household products for the purpose of getting high. Any product that can be safely used in the home becomes a dangerous substance when it’s inhaled. The list of potential drugs is endless and includes cleaners, nail polish removers, markers, pens, glues, paint products, aerosol sprays, and other chemicals.

Young children and teens may start abusing these products because they think it is a safe way to get high. They may also be struggling with peer pressure or self-esteem. It is important for parents to talk openly with their children about the dangers of even trying such substances, because even one use can kill, and any use at all damages the brain in various ways. Parents also need to know what to look for if they suspect their child is using inhalants. To request more information on what to do with a teenager who is abusing inhalants call Parent Help today 1-800-688-8706.

Inhalant Abuse is Among All Demographics

Children and teens from all ethnic groups and socioeconomic classes are equally likely to become solvent abusers. Children in elementary school are just as likely to use inhalants as those in middle school or high school (2000). For that reason, it is important for parents to talk to their child early about the dangers of solvent abuse.

Inhalant Abuse Damages the Brain

Inhalant abuse damages the brain, and the longer the abuse continues, the worse the damage becomes. The parts of the brain affected the most include the thalamus and white matter, but damage also occurs to the pons, cerebellum, and basal ganglia. Because of the numerous abnormalities caused from solvent use, inhalers often show a marked decline in memory, language comprehension, and the ability to concentrate (Mathias).

Inhalant Abuse Kills

“Sudden Sniffing Death” is essentially inhalant-induced cardiac arrest. As the user is sniffing or feeling the affects of sniffing, the heart starts beating rapidly and without rhythm, which turns into cardiac arrest (2000). This can happen even if it is the first time the user has tried an inhalant. Early education about the dangers of solvent abuse can prevent such a tragedy from occurring.

Signs of Inhalant Abuse

  • A chemical odor on clothing Paint or other substances on clothing or on face or hands
  • Red, watery eyes and/or nose
  • Drunken, dazed, or disoriented behavior
  • Anxiety, irritability, or excitability

Watching out for these symptoms can help parents catch inhalant abuse before it kills their child. (2000)

Suspicious Behaviors that indicate Inhalant Abuse

  • Holding a pen or marker close to nose
  • Showing off marks on skin or clothes left by paint or other solvents
  • Sniffing clothing regularly
  • Hoarding empty product containers or rags in hiding places

Catching the behavior before it is too late is so important, and knowing the signs can help parents protect their children. (2000.) If you suspect your teenager is experimenting with inhalants or other drugs call Parent Help today at 1-800-688-8706 or request more information today.

Preventing Inhalant Abuse

The most important thing parents can do to prevent solvent abuse in their children is tell them how harmful it is. Many troubled teens start doing it because they think it is a safe way to get high. Parents should talk to them and help them understand that it is extremely dangerous to mess around with chemicals that even one use can kill them, and any use at all injures their brains. Teens are much less likely to start using solvents if they are aware of the dangers.

For more information on how to help your teen who is abusing inhalants or other substances call Parent Help today at 1-800-688-8706 or request more information today.

Sources

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