The chemicals abused by inhalant users affect different parts of the brain, producing a variety of sensory and psychological disorders. This is the center that controls balance and coordination. Inhalant-related damage results in loss of coordination and slurred speech. Chronic abusers experience tremors and uncontrollable shaking. This is due to a sudden and unexpected disturbance of the heart's rhythm.
All inhalants can produce sudden sniffing death syndrome.
This is reversible when toluene leaves the body but, in the long-term, kidney stones may develop. Symptoms can include numbness, a tingling sensation or total paralysis. Chronic abusers can become deaf.