The number of children who abuse inhalants has doubled in the last decade. The risk is enormous because the effects of inhaling toxic chemicals are so unpredictable. A child who tries a certain amount and appears okay could use the same amount another time and get very sick or even die. Some kids have died the very first time they’ve sniffed an inhalant; their parents never even had the chance to notice warning signs. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says it takes the body at least two weeks to rid itself of these toxic chemicals through the urine and through exhaling, which is why an inhalant user’s breath often has a chemical smell. Here are other signs the AAP says to look for:
A chemical smell, paint, or stains on clothing or the child’s body Spots or sores around the mouth A drunk, dazed, or glassy-eyed look Nausea, loss of appetite Anxiety, excitability, irritability
To prevent your kids from trying inhalants, educate them in how harmful these products are. Kids who don’t die from inhaling can still suffer hearing loss, short-term memory loss, muscle spasms, and permanent brain damage. Encourage your child to get involved in activities such as clubs or sports. Keeping kids busy in wholesome activities reduces the chance that boredom will lead to drug experimentation. Help build your child’s self-esteem by encouraging him to set goals, and praise him when he achieves them. Self-confident children are less likely to turn to drugs as a way to feel good about themselves. Self-confidence in their decision-making also equips kids to resist peer pressure.
