Using an e-cigarette can cause not one, but various types of pulmonary diseases. Research about the effects of vaping on the lungs is still in the initial stages, according to a lung cancer surgeon. But we all know the harmful effects of smoking a normal cigarette; vaping is a little more on the darker side.
What Is an E-Cigarette?
An electronic cigarette can be defined as a device that heats liquid nicotine and flavoring for you to breathe in. There are several different types of e-cigarettes, but all of them are collectively called the Electronic Nicotine Delivery System (ENDS).
Most types of e-cigarettes contain:
- A heating element
- A cartridge or pod
- Battery
- Power or control button
- Mouthpiece
The Effects of E-Cigarettes on Lungs
There are numerous dangers associated with vaping and its effects on the lungs and other organs. It is usually thought that vaping is somewhat safer than actual smoking, which is a misconception. It is different from normal smoking because of the absence of tar and low nicotine levels, but it is equally unsafe.
The several different problems that vaping creates are described below:
EVALI (E-cigarette, or vaping, product use-associated lung injury)
EVALI, identified in 2019, is also referred to as vaping-associated pulmonary injury (VAPI) or vaping-associated lung injury (VALI). It is an acute or subacute respiratory illness that can also be fatal. EVALI patients require admission to the ICU because of their severe condition. The most common symptoms of EVALI include:
- Diarrhea
- Shortness of breath
- Cough
- Rapid heartbeat
- Dizziness
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Fever
- Chest pain
Asthma
A recent study suggests that people who vape are at a greater risk of developing symptoms of asthma, such as cough, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and wheezing. There are certain chemicals present in an e-cigarette that have been linked to asthma symptoms. Moreover, if you already have asthma, vaping can make it worse.
Permanent lung scarring
There is one specific ingredient present in the flavoring, Diacetyl, which can cause Bronchiolitis Obliterans (popcorn lung). This can cause permanent scarring to the lungs. Popcorn lung means a scarring of the tiny air sacs in the lungs, which results in the narrowing and thickening of the airway. It can cause coughing, shortness of breath, and wheezing.
Cancer
Research suggests that people who smoke both cigarettes and e-cigarettes are 4 times more likely to develop lung cancer than people who only smoke cigarettes. Combining the two of them is found to be much more common in people with lung cancer.
To Sum It Up
An e-cigarette is much more dangerous in its own way because of the chemicals included in the device and the e-liquid. It can cause several pulmonary diseases, as discussed in this blog at length. If you develop any of these symptoms, Emergency Hospital Systems can help you find instant relief. We provide emergency as well as long-term healthcare services. Call us to schedule a consultation.