What Is Huffing, and Why Is It Dangerous?

Huffing refers to inhaling toxic chemicals that elicit a euphoric high. These chemical vapors are easily available and can be found in regular household products. Huffing is dangerous and possibly fatal, even from the first attempt.

Understanding Inhalant Abuse

Inhalants are a drug classification that includes volatile solvents, aerosols, gases, and nitrites. These drugs produce chemical vapors that can be intoxicating when inhaled.[1] They can be found in common household products, more complex solutions, and cleaning fluids. Some examples of inhalants include:

• Spray paint
• Paint thinner
• Cleaning fluid
• Nail polish remover
• Lighter fluid
• Aerosolized deodorants
• Air duster cans
• Fuel
• Oven cleaner
• Various types of glue
• Whipped cream canister
• Permanent markers

Inhalants are inhaled through the mouth or nose, and this activity is called huffing, sniffing, snorting, or bagging (inhaled through a wet cloth), depending on the method used. They directly impact the central nervous system and can lead to a euphoric high. The different types of inhalants behave differently, depending on the chemical compounds:[2]

• Volatile solvents: These are vaporized liquids found in many home or office products. Items that would fit this category include markers, cleaners, and gasoline.
• Aerosols: Aerosols are suspended tiny particles or droplets floating freely in the air. This category includes spray paints, personal beauty or hair sprays, some oils, and laundry sprays.
• Gases: Gases are made of high energy particles that are constantly in motion. Some gases have medical applications, like nitrous oxide used in dental procedures, but are also found in coffee shops to make whipped cream.
• Nitrites: This category represents inorganic chemical compounds that contain nitrogen and oxygen, often in small bottles called “snappers” or “poppers”. Nitrites do not directly impact the central nervous system but alter blood flow and act as a muscle relaxer.

Prevalence of Huffing

Young people are the most common participants in inhalant abuse, which isn’t surprising as many of these chemicals are readily available. Several studies have been conducted to measure adolescent and general population drug use.

Out of six recent studies, five reported nitrous oxide use, five reported volatile solvent use, and four reported alkyl nitrite use.[3] Five of the six studies included in this survey were youth-specific surveys. From those studies, three groups reported volatile solvent use, one group reported nitrite use, and another nitrous oxide use.

Other data suggests one in ten adults self-reported inhalant use at least once and 0.5% within the previous year. At the time of this study in 2002 and 2003, 8% of all who reported inhalant use met the criteria for an inhalant use disorder.[4]

What is Chroming?

Made viral by a social media challenge that originated in Australia, chroming is similar to huffing and refers to inhaling chemicals to achieve a euphoric high. Chroming differs from traditional huffing because it specifically refers to inhaling the vapors found in chrome-based spray paint. Sadly, this is a deadly trend that has resulted in several adolescent deaths and brain damage.[5]

Can You Get Addicted to Huffing or Chroming?

Yes, it is possible to be addicted to huffing or chroming. Inhalants are not as commonly abused as other substances, like opioids or stimulants. However, they still pose a significant health risk, including dependence and addiction. The chemicals in inhalants can lead to a euphoric high, but it is fleeting and doesn’t last long. This effect increases the risk of abuse and continues the addiction.

Signs of Huffing and Inhalant Abuse

Some lifestyle signs and indicators of inhalant abuse include: [6]

• Chemical odors: There may be a noticeable smell of chemicals from paint, cleaners, or solvents on their breath or clothing. You may also find remnants on the skin.
• Mood Swings: Those who use inhalants may become aggressive or irritable and suffer from unexplained mood swings.
• Lack of Performance: You may notice a marked decline in their performance at work or school.
• Hallucinations: They may think they see, hear, or feel things that in reality, are not there.

Mental health symptoms like anxiety and depression can also be associated with inhalants. Chronic use can lead to negative cognitive, behavioral, and physical changes, ultimately resulting in a reduced quality of life.[7]

Other signs and paraphernalia to look for include:

• Chemical-soaked rags
• Empty aerosol spray containers, hidden or in the open
• Plastic bags with chemical residues
• Paint or other stains on the face, hands, or clothing
• Neglecting personal hygiene
• Presence of inhalant abuse symptoms (frequent headaches, nausea, loss of appetite, or unexplained fatigue)
• Stains on the face, hands, or clothes from paint, glitter, or other chemicals

Huffing Risks To Your Health

Huffing and “chroming” are associated with multiple short-term and long-term side effects and health risks, especially with chronic or frequent use. However, the risk of death with even the first use is high.

Highly concentrated chemicals contained in solvents or aerosol sprays can alter natural body functions like heart rhythm and lead to potentially fatal effects within minutes.[8] It’s also possible for these substances to stop you from breathing. This is also known as “sudden sniffing death syndrome” and can occur with just one attempt at huffing.

Side Effects of Huffing

The immediate effect of huffing is a sense of euphoria, or a chemical “high,” but additional side effects are extensive and may include:[9]

• A dazed look or being disoriented
• Chemical odor on the breath
• Thermal burns or contact dermatitis
• Rashes on the face
• Double vision
• Bloodshot eyes
• Light sensitivity
• Blurred vision
• Nasal frostbite
• Airway compromise
• Runny nose
• Mouth sores
• Coughing or wheezing
• Irregular heart rate
• Abdominal and flank pain
• Muscle weakness
• Dizziness
• Slurred speech
• Impaired memory
• Anxiety
• Psychosis
• Lack of coordination

Long-Term Effects of Huffing

Long-term, chronic inhalant use is tied to serious and life-threatening health concerns. Huffing can cause significant damage to the brain, heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys. For some, the damage these powerful chemicals have on your body can be irreversible.[10]

Brain damage is one of the more concerning effects of huffing. Studies show that chronic use of solvents (including toluene or naphthalene) damages the protective sheath around the nerves in your brain that control thought, vision, movement, and hearing.[11] Frequent huffing could cause life-altering damage and change how your brain functions daily.

What are the overdose effects of inhalants?

There is currently no prescription solution for an overdose while huffing inhalants. A huffing overdose can look like carbon monoxide poisoning and may cause kidney damage and liver damage.[12] Over time, repeated exposure or inhalant toxicity may also lead to blood disorders, birth defects, and even cancer. Additionally, huffing increases the risk of serious pulmonary issues, cardiac problems, blood disorders, and liver toxicity, and life-threatening respiratory depression.[13]

Inhalant Withdrawal Symptoms

Inhalant withdrawal is not particularly common and it is not considered serious in most cases. However, those with a history of frequent use of inhalants may experience uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms, including: [14]

• Increased irritability
• Anxiety and depression
• Lack of concentration
• Intense cravings
• Headaches
• Nausea or vomiting
• Hallucinations
• Runny nose
• Watery eyes
• Rapid heart beat
• Restlessness
• Insomnia

Overcome Huffing and Substance Use Disorder

If you or a loved one are struggling with inhalant use and are looking for a fresh start, reach out to a substance abuse treatment provider right away and get the help you need.