By Jack Sinclair
Sniffing. Huffing. Inhaling. Call it whatever
you want, it's all the same. It's a cheap thrill that is highly
addictive and an easy way to die. People have been sniffing
for a long time, but it's becoming more and more publicized
in the media lately, particularly in areas such as Labrador,
where a majority of the youth population are addicted to inhalants.
Sniffing is a problem that has invaded
many communities, and not just native communities. In fact,
there are statistics in the United States that identify middle
class white kids as the biggest users. But the problem isn't
what colour your skin is, the problem is that sniffing can
kill you - even the first time you try it. If it doesn't kill
you, it can cause irreversible brain damage by killing off
Sudden Sniffing Death Syndrome is a condition
that occurs when an individual inhales the chemical (sniffing)
and is then startled. The adrenaline rush places stress on
the heart, and as a result many have died from the strain.
Sniffing can also cause lung, liver and kidney damage as well
as memory, coordination and hearing loss. There are other
cases where kids have been sniffing and then got behind the
wheel of a car. Like other forms of impairment, it's an invitation
for disaster with known cases of drivers passing out, crashing
and killing occupants of the car.
I learned the dangers of sniffing the
hard way - I lost my best friend, and nobody wanted to talk
about it. Talking about the problem is a way to make sure
we make some changes and save lives. Ignorance is what kills
people and the only way to fight is to start educating.
How do you know when someone around you
might be sniffing?
- Are there an unusual number of empty or missing household
- Are there rags or bags that smell of chemicals?
- Have you noticed paint around the person's
face or the smell of chemicals on their clothing?
- Have you noticed slurred speech, red
eyes and/or nose, sores around the mouth, irritability or
If you see the signs, then don't walk away.
You may be the only person who can stop another death from
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