Can Vaping Cause Lung Damage?

Vaping is the act of using an electronic cigarette to inhale vaporised nicotine or other chemicals. It has been linked to lung-damaging substances and can cause addiction.A recent survey found that 85 percent of adolescent e-cigarette users favored fruit, dessert and candy flavors. However, research shows that inhaling mixed flavors can be more toxic to cells than exposure to a single flavor. What is vape?Vaporizing allows consumers to inhale the active ingredients, or terpenes, in cannabis concentrates without burning the plant material. This process reduces the amount of harmful chemicals that are emitted during combustion, a known cause of lung damage.Vaping devices like JUULs and vapor pens use a battery to heat a liquid into an aerosol that users inhale. The liquid, also called e-juice or e-liquid, may contain nicotine (derived from tobacco), propylene glycol and flavorings. Some e-liquids claim to be nicotine-free, but even e-juice containing no nicotine still contains traces of other toxic chemicals.These devices come in different shapes and sizes, from discreet pod or pen devices that look similar to a flash drive to more complex tank devices that can produce large clouds of vapor. Regardless of their appearance, all ENDS are considered to be tobacco products and must follow the same rules as cigarettes and other tobacco products. This includes a ban on sales to minors. How does it work?A battery-powered device heats a liquid to create a mist that looks like water vapor and is inhaled into the lungs. It contains nicotine and chemicals that enter the bloodstream, but not the harmful carcinogens of burning tobacco and paper.The device’s cartridges or e-liquid contain a mix of ingredients, including nicotine and flavouring. It may also have solvents such as acetone that can irritate the skin and eyes, and additives like metals which may cause cancer over time.Nicotine is addictive and changes the way the brain works. It can make it hard to concentrate and control impulses, especially in teenagers. It can also make it more likely to try other kinds of tobacco products, like regular cigarettes.There are many different types of vape devices, from simple e-cigarettes that look like a traditional cigarette to high-tech “mods” designed to mimic the look of a sports car. The device you choose should be easy to use, comfortable and reliable. What are the dangers?It’s likely you’ve heard or seen in the news stories of sudden and severe lung problems and even deaths in teens that were linked to vaping. These are known as e-cigarette or vaping product use associated lung injury (EVALI).Nicotine is highly addictive and has been shown to harm the developing brains of teens and young adults. It’s also easy to overdose on nicotine from liquid inhalants such as e-cigarettes.E-cigarettes can leak toxic chemicals such as glycerin, propylene glycol and diacetyl. Those chemicals are known to be harmful inhalants, and some vapor can contain heavy metals including nickel, tin and lead.It’s also not safe to modify e-cigarette batteries or use old ones. Lithium-ion batteries can overheat or explode. You should always purchase your batteries from a trusted source and store them properly. Some e-cigarettes have been reported to cause fires and explosions when they come in contact with other objects or when left unattended on a desktop or bed. How can I quit?To quit vaping, it’s important to prepare for cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It also helps to identify and avoid triggers, like people who smoke or places you used to vape in. It’s also important to find ways to cope with your emotions without vaping, such as exercise, stress-relieving activities, or talking to a friend.Quitting can be easier with the right support system, which may include family and friends, online peer groups, or a therapist. Having the right support can help you stay motivated throughout the process.If you’re ready to quit, start by setting a goal and choosing a date. It’s a good idea to choose a day that isn’t already a particularly busy or stressful time. For example, quitting during finals week or the day before your annual review might not be the best choice. You can also use a free app to track your progress, like 2Morrow Health.