Is Your Child Abusing Inhalants?

Inhalant abuse, known as huffing, is the inhalation of chemical vapors for the purpose of getting high. It is a growing form of substance abuse among children between the ages of 12 and 17 and statistics show that more girls than boys engage in huffing.

But the practice of sniffing chemicals to get high leaves some tell-tell signs.

The chemicals used for huffing can irritate the lungs and airways and can also irritate the skin. Children who are huffing may have red or running noses. The may also have redness, sores or rashes around their nose and mouth.

They can experience a loss of appetite as well as nausea and vomiting. The may appear intoxicated and slur their words. They may exhibit inattentiveness, lack of coordination, irritability or depression.

Inhalant Abuse Screening Quiz

If you suspect your child may be abusing inhalants, answer the 10 questions on our inhalant abuse screening quiz to see if you need to get help for your child.

Start the Quiz

More Information:

• Basic Facts About Inhalants
  
• Frequently Asked Questions
  
• Early Inhalant Use Signals Future Problems
  

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