Huffing

Inhalant Abuse ("Huffing")

This form of substance misuse disorder is primarily found in pre-teens and teens. There are
numerous substances that can be the form used, including compressed air "dusting"
canisters, spray paint, glue, household cleaners and furniture polish, and many others.

Inhalants can obviously be misused by health care professionals, especially anesthesia
personnel, OR and anesthesia technicians, OR nursing personnel and surgical personnel. I am
aware of the death of an orderly in a local hospital found dead by his mother. He had rigged a
nitrous oxide (N2O) tank so he could attach an oxygen mask in order to obtain his "buzz".
Unfortunately, he used the elastic band to hold the mask in place. Not realizing 100% N2O is
fatal, he accidentally killed himself.

Sudden Sniffing Death Syndrome

This occurs when a person is suddenly "surprised" or frightened while huffing. While the
chemicals are in the person's system, the surge of adrenalin caused by being surprised or
frightened can cause fatal cardiac dysrhythmias. The solvents and other chemicals being
inhaled can cause sudden death from hypoxia and cardiac arrest...THE FIRST TIME a person
tries huffing.

If a parent or teacher discovers evidence of huffing, expert medical advice and evaluation of the
individual is mandatory. This is not a behavior that will go away if ignored. Prolonged inhalant
abuse can also lead to permanent brain damage. This is not a "phase" that can be ignored
since the risk of death or permanent disability is very real.

Signs of Huffing

Know the signs
Because they are often common household products, it isn’t easy to pick up if someone is
abusing inhalants. Here are some signs to look out for:

- Depression

- Drunk or dazed behaviour

- Red or runny nose

- Watery, red eyes

- Chemical breath odour

- Nosebleeds

- Nausea or loss of appetite

- Irritability, anxiety or restlessness

- Hiding objects such as hair spray or pieces of cloth