Heed the Signs of “Huffing” in Teens

One in five U.S. teenagers admits to getting high by inhaling the vapors of common household products, according to a new survey. The practice is particularly popular among 14- and 15-year-olds.

Called “sniffing,” “huffing,” or “bagging,” inhalant abuse is as risky as it is common. It can damage the brain and other vital organs, including the lungs, heart, kidneys, and liver. In fact, abusing inhalants just once could result in sudden death from heart failure.

Commonly abused products include glue, shoe polish, paint thinner, gasoline, lighter fluid, spray paint, and correction fluid. Warning signs of inhalant use include:

• slurred speech
• appearing drunk, dizzy, or dazed
• breath that smells like chemicals
• red eyes
• runny nose
• paint stains on hands, face, or clothes.