ELMIRA-- Two local teenagers were charged with stealing cans of whipped cream from a grocery store. While it may have been a harmless prank, what many parents don't know is that kids can use whipped cream cans as inhalants to get high.
     Teens call them “whippits.” They use empty whipped cream or spray cans to inhale the nitrous oxide propellant. The gas can cause a short high, even euphoria.
     The national Youth Risk Behavior Survey finds that almost 12 percent of kids in 9th to 12th grade have sniffed glue, breathed the contents of aerosol spray cans, or inhaled paints or sprays to get high. Though kids might think it's funny, experts say whippits can be highly addictive and even deadly.
     “It kills brain cells, which causes permanent brain damage, heart failure, damage to your lungs, liver, kidneys,” said Christie Speciale of Trinity of Chemung County, which provides alcohol and drug treatment and prevention services.
     Some of the warning signs that a teenager is inhaling whippits are red glazed eyes, a runny nose, nausea, loss of appetite, and drunken behavior.
     If you suspect your teen is huffing, you can call Trinity of Chemung County at 607-737-5215.
More information on whippits and other inhalants.
More from the National Inhalant Prevention Coalition.