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An article on this topic is available in this issue of
AFP.
Is Your Child Abusing Inhalants?
What is inhalant abuse?
An inhalant can be almost any aerosol or liquid solvent. Oven cleaner, model glue, spray paint, correction fluid, paint thinner, and polyurethane are just a few of the household products that young people may try to inhale. They breathe in the fumes of the product directly from its container ("snorting"). Or they soak a rag in the product, put the rag over their nose, and inhale ("huffing"). Or they pour the product into a bag, which they hold over their mouth and nose while they inhale the fumes ("bagging").
Who may be abusing inhalants?
The most common abusers of inhalants are teenagers, especially those who are 12 to 15 years old. Inhalants are easy to get because they are not illegal--and they are cheap. Often, teenagers try inhalants before they try alcohol, marijuana, or cigarettes.
How do I tell if my child is using inhalants to get high?
It may be hard to recognize the signs of inhalant abuse. Teenagers who use inhalants may have chapped lips or faces, paint stains on their hands and clothes, runny noses, a funny odor on their breath, or bloodshot eyes. They may complain of headaches, dizziness, trouble remembering things, trouble sleeping, or vision problems.
Why should I worry about inhalant abuse?
Inhaling solvents can cause sudden death because the heart stops. It also can be the cause of fires, falls, car crashes, and drownings.
Inhalants block oxygen flow to the brain and every other organ in the body. Continued abuse can kill your child as a result of slow damage to every organ.
If your child abuses inhalants, he or she is likely to try other kinds of drugs, especially alcohol and marijuana.
What should I do if I think my child has been using inhalants?
Be open and honest with your child. Talk to your child about your concerns in a way that shows you want to help. If your child is having physical symptoms, such as headaches or dizziness, take the child to a doctor.
The best way to keep your child from experimenting with drugs is to talk to him or her early. Do not assume that your child "knows better." Talking to your child about the dangers of trying drugs can help your child make the right decision.
Where can I get more information?
National Inhalant Prevention Coalition (NIPC)
Web
site: www.inhalants.org
Telephone:
800-269-4237
National Institute on Drug Abuse
Web site:
www.nida.nih.gov
This handout provides a general overview on this topic and may not apply to everyone. To find out if this handout applies to you and to get more information on this subject, talk to your family doctor.
Visit familydoctor.org for information on this and many other health-related topics.
Copyright © 2003 by the American Academy of Family
Physicians.
Permission is granted to print and photocopy this material for
nonprofit educational uses. Written permission is required for all other uses,
including electronic uses.
