Q: I’m seeing videos online about “laughing gas” and other inhalants. How worried should I be as a parent?
A: It’s something parents should take seriously. Social media is making inhalant use look harmless or even funny, especially with substances like nitrous oxide, often called “laughing gas.” Some videos rack up millions of views and show exactly how to use these products, often without any warnings about the risks. That kind of exposure can normalize behavior that is actually quite dangerous.
Inhalants are chemicals found in everyday products like aerosol sprays, whipped cream chargers, glue and cleaning fluids. Because they’re legal and easy to access, teens may assume they’re safe. They’re not. Breathing in these substances can deprive the brain of oxygen and lead to dizziness, poor judgment, loss of consciousness and, in some cases, sudden death, even with first-time use.
While the percentage of teens using inhalants may sound small, it still represents hundreds of thousands of adolescents across the country. More concerning, research shows inhalant use is often linked with other risky behaviors, including fighting, stealing and broader substance use.
As a parent, one of the most important things you can do is stay aware and start the conversation early. Ask your child what they’re seeing online and how they interpret it. Keep the tone open and nonjudgmental so they feel comfortable being honest. It also helps to be aware of warning signs, like chemical smells on breath or clothing, missing household products or sudden changes in behavior.
The goal isn’t to scare kids, but to give them accurate information. Social media may present inhalants as harmless, but the medical reality is very different. Making sure your child understands that difference can go a long way in keeping them safe.
Dr. Nita Shumaker is a pediatrician with Galen North Pediatrics and a member of the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society.