Inhalant abuse

Inhalant abuse can kill suddenly. It can even kill those who sniff for the first time. There are 2.1 million inhalant abuses in the USA. Thousands of young people die from solvent abuse every year. Most of these people face brain damage or muscle spasms, also deterioration of the heart, blood, liver and kidney. The abusers start because they feel the substance can't hurt them. Peer pressure and low self esteem can also be key factors in solvent abuse.

Inhalant abuse is the deliberate snuffing of common household products to get a, what's more commonly known as a high (Buzz). Sniffing can cause sickness, which in some severe cases can lead to death. Victims will become nauseated, forgetful and irrational. Sniffing can also damage parts of the anatomy; such as the brain, liver, heart and kidneys. Consequently, victims can die suddenly without any warning whatsoever. The heart begins to beat rapidly, which could lead to a cardiac arrest.

Every day, household products are abused. They are extremely problematic in the hands of an inhalant abuser. Here are some of the products that can be used by an inhalant abuser, this is not a safe list, this list is to give an idea of what smells a person might have on them if they are an inhalant abuser.

• Glues
• Nail varnish
• Nail varnish remover
• Permanent markers
• Spray paint
• Lighter fluid (gas (most common))
• Gasoline
• Cleaning products
• Deodorants
• hairspray

What are the signs that someone is an inhalant abuser?

• Common aerosols such as lighter gas, deodorant, hair products and cooking products are used, any missing from the home is a good sign.
• Bad breath and chemical odours on clothing
• Slurred speech
• Dazed and confused appearance
• Paint and other products found on the fingers and face
• Red bloodshot eyes and runny nose
• Loss of appetite
• Experiencing unusual mood swings such as anxiety, irritability, restlessness and irrationality

It is very important to talk to your children about the risks of inhalant abuse. It is imperative that they know that even first time experimentation is extremely dangerous.

Solvents are more commonly used by adolescents and young adults between the ages of 12 and 17 years old, because they are cheap and pocket money prices. Solvents are inhaled through the nose or breathed in through the mouth from containers, plastic bags or rags that are soaked in chemical substance.

Being 'high' from solvents is similar to being intoxicated. The aftermath is usually drowsiness, excitation, agitation and irrationality. Some short-term affects are dizziness, delusions and hallucinations. Long-term affects result in significant weight loss, weak muscles and serious lack in coordination. Withdrawal symptoms include sweating, racing pulse, tremors in the hands and legs, sleeplessness and hallucinations.

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