BY: Chief Ezechukwu N Obonna
@ISSUP, ISAAC, WFAD
Former SA On Narcotics And Illicit Drugs Monitoring (IMSG)
Glue sniffing can be said to be a type of inhalant abuse which has serious health consequences and risk. A good number of children in secondary schools do experiment with these inhalants since it gives them instant highness. Inhalant abuse like other forms of substance abuse can lead to addiction.
Inhalants are typically used by adolescents as a cheaper and more easily accessible alternative to marijuana and other drugs, and are the only class of substances used more by younger teenagers than older teens.
Although sniffing of glue is very cheap, it can also be very dangerous. Solvent glue is one of many common substances that fall under the category of “inhalants.” Others include:
•Nail polish remover
•Lighter fluid
•Shoe polish
•Paint thinner
•Spray paint
•Gasoline
- Shoe Markers gum
•Markers
•Cooking spray
WAYS TO ABUSE INHELANTS
By Sniffing:
Sniffing is when the substance, example glue, is sniffed directly from the container. Some spray inhalants may also be sniffed by being sprayed on a heated surface first.
Huffing:
Huffing is when you soak a rag in the inhalant and press it to the mouth or nose.
Spraying:
If the inhalant is in a spray can, it may be sprayed directly into the nose or mouth.
Inhaling:
The substance, often a gas, is released, sprayed, or poured into a plastic bag or balloon. The user then inhales from the new container.
EFFECTS OF GLUE SNIFFING
The sniffing of glue initially causes a feeling of euphoria. Because the inhalants affect your brain quickly, sniffing glue can also cause:
*Disorientation
*Hallucinations
*Loss of coordination
*Drowsiness
*Headache
*Low blood pressure
*Flushing and warmth
Difficulty breathing
HOW TO KNOW IF YOUR CHILD IS ABUSING INHELANTS
It can be very difficult to know if your child or someone around you is abusing inhalants. Here are some signs to look out for:
•A chemical smell on their breath.
•Paint or oil stains on clothes.
•Skipping school or work
•Drop in marks or failure to complete ordinary tasks.
•Loss of appetite
•Dazed look
•Slurred speech
•Messy appearance
•Restlessness at night
•Change in behavior