Inhalants Addiction Warning Signs
Inhalant abuse is a substance use disorder where individuals inhale chemical vapors for a “high.” Common among youth, inhalants are often overlooked but can have fatal consequences. If you or someone you know struggles with inhalant addiction, seek help immediately to prevent long-term health issues.
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Top 7 Signs of Inhalant Addiction
Inhalant abuse is common among children and teens because chemical inhalants are easily accessible in everyday household items, including cleaning products, spray paint, paint thinner, hairspray, correction fluid, and glue.
According to 2023 data from the Substance Use and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), nearly 10% of people 12 and older abuse inhalants during their lifetime.
Inhalants can produce a short-term high, causing mind-altering effects like dizziness, euphoria, and disorientation.
While inhalant addiction impacts everyone differently, the following signs and symptoms can signify abuse, which can lead to the development of substance use disorder.
Physical Signs of Inhalant Use
You may notice signs on their body or clothes depending on how a person abuses inhalants.
For example, “dusting” involves spraying a chemical directly into the nose or mouth, while “huffing” involves sniffing or snorting a chemical-soaked rag or putting it into the mouth. Methods like these can leave physical traces behind.
If a person recently abused inhalants, you may notice:
- Paint stains on the hands, face, or clothes
- Chemical odor on their breath or clothes
- Coughing
- Runny nose
- Red eyes
Rashes or Skin Issues
The use of inhalants can lead to allergic reactions around the mouth and nose, which are called “huffer’s rash” or “glue sniffer’s rash.” These rashes are a form of eczema, which causes red, itchy, and bumpy skin around the middle and lower parts of the face.
What’s more, some aerosols (like nitrous oxide) can cause frostbite when they come into contact with the skin. Other inhalants containing butane or propane can cause burns.
Inhalant addicts may also experience skin issues like:
- Acne breakouts around the mouth
- Eczema higher up on the face, such as near the eyes
- Blistering
Impaired Cognitive Functioning
Chemical inhalants can damage your brain and central nervous system (CNS), leading to impaired cognitive functions. For example, inhaling chemicals can cause hypoxia (low oxygen levels), which may impact parts of the brain that control memory and learning.
As a result, a person abusing inhalants may show mental health side effects, including:
- Confusion
- Trouble concentrating
- Memory loss
- Decrease in learning skills
- Inattentiveness
Movement Problems
Some types of inhalants (especially volatile solvents, like those found in paint thinner, nail polish remover, or fast-drying glue) can damage your brain’s myelin.
Myelin fibers form protective sheaths around nerves in your brain and allow the nerves to send messages to other parts of your body faster.
When inhalant use breaks down the myelin tissue, the body doesn’t send signals as efficiently, which can cause issues with muscles and coordination.
Inhalant addicts may experience physical impairment such as:
- Muscles spasms
- Poor coordination
- Lack of bodily control
- Slurred speech
- Muscle weakness
Neglecting Daily Life
A person abusing inhalants (like any other substance abuse) will devote more and more time to using them. They can become preoccupied with getting inhalants or spend a lot of time recovering from the effects.
As their substance abuse takes root, an inhalant addict may neglect work or school. According to an older 2014 study, adolescents who regularly abuse inhalants are more likely to have lower grades, act out, or skip school.
A person addicted to inhalants may also lose interest in recreational activities or socializing.
If someone is abusing inhalants, you may notice behavioral changes like:
- A rapid decline in professional or academic performance
- Changes in hygiene or personal grooming
- Lowered inhibitions or increased risk-taking
- Changing their friends or social group
- Giving up important responsibilities or activities
Developing Withdrawal Symptoms
People can become “dependent” on inhalants, meaning their bodies get used to the chemicals’ effects and need them to function.
The risk of developing a dependence is higher in younger users. Regularly abusing inhalants will also cause one to build up a tolerance, whereby one needs higher amounts to get the same effect.
When a dependent person suddenly stops or cuts back on using inhalants, they can develop withdrawal symptoms. An older 2011 study found that nearly 48% of the participants who met the criteria for inhalant dependence developed withdrawal symptoms.
If a dependent person is going through inhalant withdrawal, they may experience symptoms such as:
- Headaches
- Anxiety or restlessness
- Depression
- Daytime sleepiness
- Nausea
- Rapid heartbeat
- Sweating
- Tremors
- Hallucinations or vivid dreams
- Tiredness or weakness
Mental Health Concerns
Some people with existing mental health conditions, like anxiety or depression, may be drawn to inhalants or other drugs because they spike dopamine, the “feel good” chemical. However, long-term inhalant abuse can actually make mental health conditions worse.
Chronic drug abuse in teens and adolescents can also impact their cognitive development and lead to mental health disorders. Although, people of any age can develop mental health conditions from substance abuse.
A person abusing inhalants may show changes in their mood or behavior, including:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Mood swings
- Apathy
- Irritability or hostility
- Paranoia
Get Help for Inhalant Addiction
If you or a loved one is struggling with inhalant abuse, don’t wait to seek help. Inhalant addiction can have serious health consequences, but recovery is possible with the right support.
Visit our Treatment Help Page to explore addiction treatment options, find the right rehab program, and take the first step toward a healthier, drug-free life.
FAQs About Warning Signs of Inhalant Addiction
How can I tell if someone is abusing inhalants?
Some trademark signs of inhalant abuse include paint or chemical stains on their body or clothes, a person smelling like chemicals, and facial rashes or irritation around the nose and mouth.
What are the most common signs of inhalant addiction?
Inhalant addiction can impact everyone in slightly different ways, and certain effects can differ based on the chemical a person abuses. Common signs include poor coordination, muscle weakness, slurred speech, coughing, a runny nose, or red eyes.
How can I recognize inhalant addiction in a loved one?
Beyond the physical signs of inhalant addiction, you may notice behavioral changes, such as neglecting work or school, withdrawing from social life or recreational activities, confusion, memory loss, or mood swings.
What is huffing?
“Huffing” refers to the practice of soaking a cloth in an intoxicating chemical (such as cleaning fluids or the butane from a lighter) and then holding it close to the face or inside the mouth to breathe in the vapors.
What is sniffing death?
“Sniffing death” refers to sudden death caused by inhalant abuse, even after the first time using it. It occurs when toxic chemicals trigger a fatal heart arrhythmia.
This risk is especially high if the person is startled or active after inhaling.
Inhalants can make the heart extremely sensitive, leading to sudden cardiac arrest, even in healthy individuals.
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