Inhalant abuse is defined as "the deliberate inhalation or sniffing of common products found in homes and communities with the purpose of 'getting high.'" Though there are many illegal drugs that are inhaled, the term "inhalant" refers to products that, in and of themselves, are not illegal, but can be used to produce similar effects. Products used as inhalants include spray paint, nail polish remover, rubber cement, hair spray, and paint thinner.

The three most common ways of using inhalants are called sniffing, huffing, and bagging. Sniffing is the most common and easiest method, and refers to inhaling product fumes directly from the product; i.e. a bottle of rubber cement. Huffing is done by soaking a rag or other piece of cloth with a product and holding the rag to the face or stuffing it in the mouth. Substances are bagged when they're sprayed or placed inside a paper or plastic bag and the fumes are inhaled from the bag.

Regardless of the method, inhalants are dangerous. They can cause blackouts, lung damage, and even seizures if someone has an adverse reaction to the chemical.

Inhalants are especially dangerous for young children, as the products used are often found right in the home. Studies have found that kids as young as 5 have tried inhalants and that 3 percent of kids will have tried it at least once by the time they reach the fourth grade.

Studies have also found that nearly as many eighth-graders use inhalants as use marijuana, yet parents are 50 percent less likely to talk with their kids about the dangers of inhalants.

One of the gravest dangers associated with inhalant abuse is called Sudden Sniffing Death Syndrome (SSDS). SSDS occurs when an inhalant causes the heart to beat erratically and quickly at the same time that the fumes inhibit the body's ability to produce enough oxygen. The user suffocates.

There's no formula for determining when someone might be at risk of Sudden Sniffing Death Syndrome. It could happen the 50th time inhalants are abused, or it could happen the first time. Even if death doesn't occur, inhalants can cause brain damage, nausea, headaches, and fatigue. They can also damage the central nervous system.

Kids who abuse inhalants may appear to be disoriented, dizzy, or uncoordinated. They may also have slurred speech, a red or runny nose, unusual breath, or sores around the mouth.

If you suspect your child or another young person is abusing inhalants, get them help. Sit down and have a long talk about the dangers and consequences of their behavior. Make sure he or she takes the conversation seriously. Not only are inhalants used by very young kids, but they often become a gateway to abuse of illicit drugs and/or alcohol.

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