Helium inhalation injuries managed at emergency departments

Abstract

Introduction Helium is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless inert gas. Inhaling helium can temporarily result in a high-pitched, squeaky voice. Individuals also may inhale helium to become intoxicated or commit suicide. The objective of this study was to characterize helium inhalations managed at emergency departments (EDs). Methods Data were obtained from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS), a database of consumer product-related injuries collected from the EDs of approximately 100 United States hospitals. Helium inhalation-related injuries reported during 2000–2019 were identified by reviewing the record narratives for the term “helium.” The distribution of the national estimate was determined for selected variables. Results A total of 89 helium inhalation-related injuries were identified, resulting in a national estimate of 2,186 injuries. The estimated number of injuries was 99 during 2000–2004, 305 during 2005–2009, 864 during 2010–2014, and 918 during 2015–2019. The age distribution was 75 (3.4%) 0–5 years, 1,427 (65.3%) 6–12 years, 586 (26.8%) 13–19 years, and 98 (4.5%) 20 years or older; 1446 (66.1%) of the patients were male. The most commonly reported symptoms or injuries were 1500 (68.6%) syncope, 615 (28.1%) non-concussion head injury, 299 (13.7%) dizziness/lightheaded, 267 (12.2%) contusion/abrasion, and 236 (10.8%) concussion. The patient was treated or evaluated and released in 2149 (98.3%) estimated injuries. Conclusion The majority of patients with helium inhalation-related injuries treated at United States EDs were age 6–12 years and male. Most of the patients experienced either syncope or dizziness/lightheadedness and were released from the ED.