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Detecting Inhalant Use

Inhalant use does not show up in standard drug tests. The most reliable method of detection is to remain alert for the signs of use. Some of the classic signs that accompany inhalant abuse by young people are similar to the indicators of use of other drugs: falling grades, disinterest in formerly favorite activities, frequent absences based upon dubious excuses, a general lack of motivation, and drastic changes in friendships.

Sudden and erratic behavior changes can be a sign of recent inhalant abuse. Complaints of headache, unexplained nausea and spontaneous vomiting can also be a danger sign. A numb, or throbbing tongue is often associated with the inhalation of Dust Off type products, and those which include freon.

Be wary of kids who often secrete themselves in sheds, garages or other areas where gasoline is stored. Take notice of those who make a routine of disappearing for some time immediately after returning from school. Monitor home inventories for missing products, such as aerosols, solvents and gases that could be used for huffing. Check your children’s bedrooms and outgoing garbage for quantities of discarded containers, bags or rags with chemical odors, or balloons.

Don’t ignore clothing or garbage that smells of harsh chemicals, and be vigilant for the presence of unexplained paint stains on the individual’s body or clothing. Gold and silver spay paint are particularly common.

In person, you may notice a chemical odor on the breath, and sometimes sores develop around the mouth. Occasionally, a dry reddened ring will form around the mouth and nose area, where the bag or chemicals have come in contact with the facial skin.