According to data released by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) states, 12-year-olds abuse inhalants more than marijuana, cocaine and hallucinogens combined. Inhaling, also called "huffing," is defined as "breathing the gas, fumes or vapors of chemicals in order to get high."

Many of the inhalants used by young people are common household products -- and the practice can be deadly:

The need to increase awareness of this public health risk among physicians, parents and others cannot come too soon for Kevin Talley, the father of Amber Ann Suri, who died February 2009 after huffing.

Her parents suspected something was going on when they noticed she had a pungent smell, glassy eyes, and complained about sinus problems. Although she was taken to a doctor, her real problem was not identified and she was treated only for her sinus symptoms. She died shortly thereafter. [Source: Medical News Today]

Many young people turn to inhalants because they're cheap and legal. Unfortunately, they can also be debilitating and deadly. Addiction to inhalants can happen quickly, because the highs are so intense. The sudden increase in heart rate often caused by huffing can also be fatal.

Labels: inhalants, huffing

Posted By: Aspen/CRC