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Glue Sniffing

Glue sniffing and abusing other types of inhalants, such as typewriter correction fluid, felt tip markers, spray paint and air fresheners are increasingly becoming a widespread problem in this country. Inhalants are as popular as marijuana and is far easier and cheaper to obtain. According to the National Inhalant Prevention Coalition, one in five students have used some form of inhalant by the time they have reached the eighth grade.

Why Do Kids Sniff Glue?

The effects of glue sniffing are similar to being drunk. It can also make you feel less inhibited. Continue sniffing glue and you are likely to experience hallucinations.

The Dangers of Sniffing Glue

Inhalants work like anesthetics, which slow down the functioning of the body. They can damage the heart, kidneys, brain, liver, bone marrow and other organs. One deadly side effect is sudden sniffing death syndrome which can happen as early as the very first time a child uses inhalants.

Other long term effects of using inhalants include memory loss, hearing loss, limb spasms and even permanent brain damage. Abuse can cause permanent personality changes, loss of coordination and slurred speech.

Inhalants are Addictive

A common solvent found in glues, paints and other household products is toluene. Whenever someone starts sniffing glue, the toluene moves quickly into the brain, first affecting the same regions as cocaine or other drugs before moving to the rest of the brain. Because toluene hits regions of the brain associated with reward and pleasure, the potential is there for addiction.

In essence, a youngster who uses inhalants, also known as huffing, is exposing himself to a similar risk of addiction as cocaine. Kids who are addicted to inhalants suffer a high rate of relapse and must usually be admitted to rehab for at least 30 to 40 days for detoxification.

How to Prevent Inhalant Abuse

Talk to your children today about the dangers of using inhalants. Don't wait. Children as young as elementary age have been known to try inhalants. Teach your children that inhalants like glue and other solvents are poisons that could damage your brain or even cause death.


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