When most people think about substance misuse, they picture alcohol, opioids, or other drugs. But one of the most dangerous and overlooked types of substance misuse involves products found in almost every home, like cleaning fluid, glue, or even whipped cream canisters.
When someone intentionally inhales these vapors or fumes to get high, the risks can be severe. Inhalant misuse can cause lasting damage to the brain and body, and in some cases, it can be fatal the very first time.
Understanding what inhalants are and recognizing the warning signs can help you take action early and stay safe.
What are Inhalants?
Inhalants aren’t one single drug. It’s a broad term for any volatile substance that produces chemical vapors people inhale to feel high or change the way they feel.
These substances are found in common household or workplace products, including:
- Volatile solvents: Gasoline, paint thinners or removers, glues, markers, degreasers, nail polish remover.
- Aerosols: Spray paint, hairspray, spray deodorant, fabric protector, cooking sprays.
- Gases: Nitrous oxide, butane, propane, refrigerants.
- Nitrites (“poppers”): Often sold as “room odorizer,” “leather cleaner,” or “video head cleaner.”
Although these products have legitimate uses, misusing them by inhaling their fumes turns them into powerful, fast-acting drugs that can affect the brain and body within seconds.
Why Inhalants Appeal to Young People
Inhalant misuse is seen across all ages, but it’s especially common among adolescents. There are a few reasons inhalants are so common among youth:
- Easy access: Many inhalants are everyday products kept under the sink, in the garage, or in a backpack.
- Low cost: Unlike many other drugs, inhalants are relatively inexpensive.
- Perception of safety: Because these products are legal and familiar, young people may not see them as “real drugs.”
- Short, intense high: The effects often come on quickly and fade within minutes, making misuse easier to hide.
This combination of availability, low cost, and perceived harmlessness makes inhalants particularly dangerous.
Long-Term Risks You Can’t See
The long-term effects of inhalant misuse can be severe. Chronic or repeated misuse can damage multiple organs and systems in the body, including:
- Brain and nervous system: Memory problems, difficulty concentrating, changes in mood or personality, tremors, coordination problems, or even permanent brain damage or dementia-like symptoms.
- Heart: Irregular heart rhythms, weakened heart muscle, and heart failure.
- Lungs: Chronic cough, wheezing, breathing problems, and increased risk of lung infections.
- Liver and kidneys: Organ damage that can affect how the body filters toxins.
- Bone marrow and blood: Anemia and other blood disorders.
- During pregnancy: Increased risk of miscarriage, low birth weight, and developmental problems.
These effects may develop slowly and be easy to miss initially, which is why early awareness and intervention are crucial.
Warning Signs of Inhalant Misuse
Because inhalants are so common in everyday life, the signs of misuse can be subtle. If you’re concerned about yourself or someone you care about, watch for:
- Red or watery eyes, runny nose, or frequent nosebleeds
- Sores, cracks, or rashes around the mouth or nose
- Headaches, nausea, or loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or muscle weakness
- Sudden changes in friends, hobbies, or social circles
- Declining grades or problems at school or work
- Secretive behavior, especially around the garage, bathroom, or bedroom
- Hiding or collecting items like spray cans, rags, plastic bags, or empty containers
- Seeming confused, forgetful, or “out of it” more often than usual
None of these signs alone proves someone is misusing inhalants, but they are signals that deserve attention, compassion, and conversation.
What to Do If You’re Worried About Inhalant Misuse
Whether you’re concerned about yourself or someone you care about, taking the next step can feel scary. You don’t have to have all the answers before you ask for help.
- Talk to a healthcare provider: A doctor or mental health professional can help you understand what’s going on and what support might be helpful.
- Reach out to a treatment provider: Programs that specialize in substance misuse and mental health can offer assessments, counseling, and ongoing care.
- Explore counseling or group support: Individual therapy, family counseling, and peer support groups can all be integral components of a comprehensive recovery plan.
There are no quick fixes, but there is a path forward.
You Don’t Have to Face This Alone
Inhalant misuse is more prevalent than many people realize, and more dangerous than it looks. But noticing the signs early and reaching out for help can make a tremendous difference.
If you’re concerned about your own inhalant use or worried about a loved one, you don’t have to wait for a crisis to seek support. Reaching out is a courageous first step. You deserve a life that isn’t controlled by substances. Help is available, and healing is possible.
If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol addiction or a substance use disorder, call Spectrum Health Systems today at 1-877-MyRehab.
