Vaping refers to the use of electronic devices, commonly called e-cigarettes or vape pens, that heat a liquid solution (often called e-juice or e-liquid) to produce an aerosol (often called vapor). The e-liquid typically contains nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals. When a person inhales the aerosol, the nicotine and other chemicals are absorbed into their bloodstream through the lungs. Vaping is often seen as an alternative to smoking traditional cigarettes, as it can provide a nicotine hit without the harmful effects of tobacco smoke. However, vaping is not risk-free, and there are known harms associated with using e-cigarettes and vaping products.
What is harm of Vapor?
Vaping is still a relatively new technology, and the long-term health effects of using e-cigarettes and vaping products are still being studied. However, there is growing evidence that vaping can have a range of harmful effects on health. Here are some of the known harms of vaping:
- Respiratory problems: Vaping can cause lung irritation and inflammation, which can lead to coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Some people who vape have also developed a condition called EVALI (e-cigarette, or vaping, product use-associated lung injury), which is a severe lung illness that can be life-threatening.
- Cardiovascular problems: Vaping has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular problems, including heart attack, stroke, and coronary artery disease.
- Nicotine addiction: Many e-cigarettes and vaping products contain nicotine, which is highly addictive. Nicotine can also have harmful effects on the developing brains of adolescents and young adults.
- Toxic chemical exposure: E-cigarettes and vaping products contain a range of chemicals, including heavy metals and volatile organic compounds, that can be harmful when inhaled. Some of these chemicals have been linked to cancer and other serious health problems.
- Accidental injuries: There have been reports of e-cigarettes and vaping devices exploding or catching fire, which can cause serious injuries.
In summary, vaping is not risk-free, and there are known harms associated with using e-cigarettes and vaping products. People who are concerned about their health should talk to their healthcare provider about the potential risks of vaping and consider alternative methods of nicotine delivery or smoking cessation.
