EFN

Huffing, or the act of using inhalants to get high, is an ever increasing problem. While the act itself has been around for some time, in recent years it has become more prevalent among today’s youth, especially the pre-teen age group.

Recent reports issued by the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration show that in the twelve year old age group, as many as 7% regularly use inhalants to get high, a number that is five times greater than that of the next highest drug used, marijuana, of which only 1.4% of youths in this age group report using regularly.

A large portion of this abuse can be attributed to the ease of access and cost. Many homes already have many of the inhalants, which include computer cleaning aerosols, spay paints, glue, hair spray, spray solvents and gasoline. Typically the act of huffing involves soaking a rag with the liquid and inhaling it. Aerosols may also be inhaled directly.

Symptoms of huffing typically include lack of coordination, glassy eyes, slurred speech, and mood swings. Parents and doctors are being encouraged to learn these symptoms as part of the National Inhalants and Poisons Awareness Week. Knowing the symptoms of huffing could save a life.