Inhalants, often called kids' drugs, are almost as prevalent as marijuana use among eighth graders. Because the products are legal, inexpensive and readily available, kids often think sniffing them is harmless. But inhalants are dangerous on many levels.
Inhalants can also cause death by suffocation when fumes replace oxygen in the lungs.
Using them over a long period of time can cause headaches, muscle weakness, abdominal pain, nausea, nosebleeds, hepatitis, violent behavior, irregular heartbeat and brain damage. Today, nearly 20 percent of all adolescents report using inhalants at least once in their lives. Parents are urged to learn about the dangers of inhalants. As evidence of inhalant use, parents should also look for chemical-soaked rags, bags or socks, paint or stain marks on face, fingers, or clothing. Talk to your kids about inhalants and other drugs, soon and often.