In recent years, vaping or electronic cigarettes have gained popularity as an alternative to quit smoking. These devices work by heating a liquid containing nicotine, flavorings, and other chemical substances that, when inhaled as an aerosol, directly enter the lungs. While their effects differ from those of a conventional cigarette, they still pose significant health risks, according to Dr. Araceli Carrillo Muñoz, a pulmonologist at Centro Médico ABC.
How does vaping affect the body?
Unlike traditional cigarettes, vaping devices do not produce tar or combustion products. However, they can release compounds such as formaldehyde, acrolein, heavy metals (including lead and nickel), and ultrafine particles that can be liquid or solid suspensions in the aerosol generated by the device when heating the liquid.
Moreover, nicotine, a highly addictive and neurotoxic substance, is present in most of these products. Its use is particularly concerning among adolescents and young people, as it has been linked to alterations in brain development, difficulty concentrating, and increased vulnerability to other addictions.
From a respiratory perspective, vaping can cause pulmonary inflammation within the first few days of use. This inflammation may result in persistent coughing, excessive mucus production, chest pain, and difficulty breathing.
Long-term exposure can affect the lining of the lungs, decrease local immune defenses, and promote respiratory infections and chronic diseases such as COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) or bronchitis.
One of the most severe conditions associated with vaping is EVALI (vaping-associated lung injury), which can lead to hospitalization and, in some cases, death.
Children, adolescents, pregnant women, and individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD are especially vulnerable. In these cases, vaping can exacerbate symptoms, accelerate lung deterioration, and increase the risk of serious complications.
Among adolescents, it has been observed that vaping use can increase the likelihood of eventually starting to smoke conventional cigarettes.
Symptoms of concern and attention related to vaping
Often, the harmful effects of vaping go unnoticed in the early stages. Therefore, even without symptoms, it is recommended to seek a medical review if vaping has been used frequently.
During the evaluation, tests such as lung function tests, chest X-rays or CT scans may be included. Additionally, analyses to detect pulmonary alterations, such as computed tomography or laboratory analysis, may be employed.
Another crucial aspect to consider is secondhand exposure. The aerosol exhaled by vaping users also contains nicotine, heavy metals, formaldehyde, and irritating compounds. Inhaling this aerosol can affect third parties, especially those with existing respiratory conditions; the same applies to cigarette smoke.
Don’t wait for symptoms to take care of yourself
The treatment for vaping-associated lung damage varies depending on the case’s severity. For those with mild inflammations, anti-inflammatory or bronchodilator medications may be used. For chronic or severe cases, long-term specialized follow-up is necessary; in all cases, stopping device use as soon as possible is crucial.
Although some users have successfully quit smoking through vaping, experts do not recommend it as a cessation method due to the high risk of dependence. Approved treatments like bupropion or nicotine replacement therapy are more effective and safer under proper medical supervision. The benefits of quitting smoking, whether through vaping or conventional cigarettes, are numerous.
In conclusion, vaping is not a harmless activity. Despite the lack of regulation and long-term studies, current evidence suggests that these devices can cause pulmonary, cardiovascular, and immunological damage.
Their frequent use, accessibility, and the misconception of their safety have increased their popularity, especially among young people.
If you experience any respiratory discomfort or are exposed to vaping recularly, it is advisable to consult a pulmonologist for timely evaluation. Visit the Internal Medicine area at Centro Médico ABC to receive a pulmonary health assessment and appropriate treatment if any damage is detected.
Key Questions and Answers
- What are the health risks of vaping? Vaping can cause pulmonary inflammation, decreased immune defenses, respiratory infections, and chronic diseases like COPD. It also poses a risk of EVALI, which can be life-threatening.
- Who is more vulnerable to vaping’s harmful effects? Children, adolescents, pregnant women, and individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD are at higher risk.
- What should I do if I’ve been vaping frequently? Seek a medical review, as early detection and treatment are crucial. Stopping vaping use is essential.
- Is vaping a safe alternative to quit smoking? Experts do not recommend it due to the high risk of dependence. Proven methods like bupropion or nicotine replacement therapy are safer and more effective.
