Chroming: The Dangerous Practice Parents Shouldn't Ignore

It may have a new name, but it's been around for a while. Chroming is a harmful, potentially deadly practice popularized among adolescents. It may start as a challenge with innocent fun, but it has taken young lives and caused health damage to others. If you're the parent or guardian of a school-age child or teen, it may be time to familiarize yourself with the dangers of chroming and learn how to protect your child.

What is chroming?

Chroming is one of the street names for substance abuse of inhalants. The name was initially coined from sniffing chrome-based paint, which can leave a metallic residue. Now, it's used as a general term for misusing inhalants.

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Inhalants contain volatile substances that produce vapors. With chroming, users intentionally breathe in the vapors through the mouth or nose. There are several types of inhalants, and many can be found in common household products. These include:

  • Aerosols such as spray paint, vegetable oil sprays, and deodorant and hair sprays
  • Volatile solvents such as felt-tip makers, nail polish removers, glues, and correction fluids
  • Gases such as butane lighters, propane tanks, helium, nitrous oxide, and computer cleaning sprays
  • Nitrites, which are often sold illegally in "poppers" and labeled as video head cleaners, room odorizers, and leather cleaners

How chroming is used

Chroming may involve directly breathing in chemicals from the source or inhaling them after they are sprayed in a bag. Users might also soak the chemicals in rags or toilet paper, pack them in cans, bottles, or tubes, and hold them to the face. Some might also stuff them in the mouth.

You may recognize these practices by other terms, such as huffing, bagging, or sniffing.

@unimelb_health What is chroming? #chroming #deodorant #lungs #health #ED #medicalstudent #medschool ♬ A Cup of Coffee - Muspace

Aerosols, gases, and volatile solvents affect the central nervous system and produce a high. This can make one feel drunk, happy, or excited. The effect usually lasts for a few minutes, potentially encouraging repeated use. On the other hand, nitrates dilate blood vessels and relax muscles. They are often misused to improve sexual performance.

Who is engaging in chroming?

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According to the results of the 2023 National Survey of Drug Use and Health, 2.6 million people in the United States used inhalants. The survey separated people into three age groups: 12 to 17, 18 to 25, and 26 or older. Interestingly, the highest percentage of use was among adolescents aged 12 to 17.

There are several reasons why inhalant abuse may be widespread among youth. As everyday items, most inhalants are legal for their intended use. They may also be affordable, easily concealed, and readily accessible at home or school. Other risk factors of abuse may include poverty, isolation, abusive households, disadvantaged backgrounds, and psychological problems.

Role of social media

Social media has also played a role. In September 2024, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) published a news release regarding an abstract to be presented at the AAP 2024 National Conference & Exhibition. The abstract was titled "Chroming Crisis: An Analysis of Chroming Related Content on TikTok."

Researchers examined 109 videos on TikTok related to chroming and huffing. Of the videos, 39% were created by minors, and 52% talked about addiction to inhalants or recurrent usage. Moreover, the top five items used by creators were permanent markers, air dusters, nail polish, paint thinner, and gasoline. The researchers also included examples of images and captions, such as "they smell SO good," and "not just me, right?"

The above study underscores the importance of parental guidance on drug trends, especially on social media. Youth may be led to view the chroming trend as a harmless meme or social media challenge without realizing the full consequences, which can sometimes be fatal.

Of note, as of this writing, searching for chroming TikTok videos on the TikTok search bar directs you to substance support resources.

Why is chroming dangerous?

Chroming typically involves deliberate, repeated inhalation within a short time, resulting in high concentrations of the substance in the body. The chemicals are absorbed by the lungs and carried by the blood to the brain and other organs. This can result in feeling similar effects to sedatives, alcohol, or anesthesia.

Short-term side effects may include:

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  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Slurred speech
  • Dizziness, drowsiness, and impaired judgment
  • Feeling weak and having slower reflexes

Loss of consciousness, choking, and asphyxiation may also occur. Sudden sniffing death syndrome, a condition where an otherwise healthy individual can die from only one session of inhalant abuse, has been associated with butane, propane, and aerosol chemicals.

Long-term health risks

There are numerous health risks of inhaling chemicals. Chronic use may lead to damage to multiple organs. Some are reversible, while others are not. Depending on the substance, frequency, and duration of exposure, these may include:

  • Cognitive impairment and neurological deficits
  • Peripheral neuropathy
  • Irregular or rapid heartbeat
  • Lung, kidney, and liver damage
  • Bone marrow suppression
  • Increased risk of spontaneous abortion and premature labor
  • Withdrawal symptoms in a newborn

Mental health impact

Inhalant abuse has been associated with mood, anxiety, and personality disorders, such as depression. Long-term users may also experience withdrawal symptoms such as cravings, mood swings, and inability to concentrate. Others may exhibit behaviors such as inattentiveness and general apathy.

How to recognize the signs of chroming

Signs of substance misuse may not always be obvious, but physical signs or behaviors may give some clues. As a parent or guardian, being alert for these signs may help you recognize chroming and intervene for your child.

Physical effects of inhalant use

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You may notice signs on the face or clothes. Depending on the type of inhalant, these physical signs may include:

  • Chemical odors coming from breath or clothes
  • Paint stains or other residue on the hands, face, or clothes
  • Blisters or rash on the face
  • Watery eyes and dilated pupils
  • Persistent runny nose and cough

Behavioral red flags

Your child may engage in certain behaviors or act differently than normal. Behavioral red flags may include:

  • Stashing empty containers and chemically soaked rags
  • Appearing dazed, disorientated, and inattentive
  • Mood swings and hallucinations
  • Having no appetite

How to protect your child from chroming

You may not always be able to be present with your children and protect them physically, but there are things you can do to help them make the right choices. Prevention can start at home. Build trust with your children and help them understand the dangers of substance abuse. Educate them in a way that they will understand. Warn them of the potential side effects and long-term damage from inhaling solvents. Most importantly, model and supervise the safe use of household products.

What if you suspect your child is chroming?

If you suspect your child is chroming, you must address the situation. Remember that your child may react strongly, so preparing yourself before you speak with your child is essential. Set clear boundaries and expectations, and talk about the consequences. You may also decide to include positive reinforcements.

Remember that inhalant abuse can be addictive, and your child will need support. Consider professional help if needed. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has a 24/7, confidential, and free national helpline that can help with information and treatment referrals for substance abuse and/or mental disorders. You can also find the closest treatment facility by using their search tool. If the situation warrants an emergency response to inhalant poisoning, call 911.

988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
If you or your child are experiencing substance use concerns, mental health crises, or emotional distress, call or text 988 to speak with a trained crisis counselor. You can also visit the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline website and chat online. The service is free and available 24/7 in English and Spanish. It also has an option for deaf or hard of hearing (HOH).

Other prevention strategies

Other prevention strategies, along with education, may include limiting exposure to potential inhalants. Keep inhalants in a safe place and dispose of them properly after use. Purchase safer alternatives when possible.

The community can also play a role. Partner with school teachers and counselors to raise awareness. Encourage open conversations on drug trends, including those promoted on social media. Teach children to choose companions wisely and to avoid people, places, or things that could trigger use.

Final word

Youth may be a vulnerable time, with multiple avenues of exposure to substance abuse. The dangers of chroming shouldn't be ignored, as they can have long-lasting physical and psychological effects. Take time to learn about how you can protect and educate your children.

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