What Are Some Signs of Inhalant Abuse?
Inhalant abusers may show all or some of these symptoms: • unusual breath odor or chemical odor on clothing • slurred or slowed speech • a general drunken appearance • paint or other products on the face or fingers • red or runny eyes or nose • spots or sores around the mouth • nausea and/or loss of appetite. What Should You Do if Someone You Know Is Sniffing and Seems To Be in Trouble? • Stay calm. • Call 911 — or your local medical emergency number. • Open the windows and doors to let in fresh air. • Do not excite or argue with an abuser under the influence, as he or she can become aggressive or violent. • Administer CPR until help arrives if the abuser is not breathing. • Ask the abuser to sit down and stay calm — activity or stress may cause heart problems, which could lead to “Sudden Sniffing Death.” • Talk with other persons present or check the area for clues to what was used. • Help the abuser get professional help from a school nurse, counselor, physician, or health care worke
