The impact of vaping on lung health has been highlighted, and frequent vapers may find the information concerning.
Originally marketed as a healthier alternative to smoking, vaping gained traction years ago and has surged in popularity among younger demographics.
Before the advent of disposable devices, fruity flavors, and various trends, vaping was mainly known as using e-cigarettes. These devices were either designed to resemble traditional cigarettes or were transparent tubes filled with tobacco-flavored liquid.
Today, there are numerous options available, and vape shops seem to be appearing everywhere.
With the rise in vaping, there has also been a corresponding increase in hospital visits due to vape-related health issues.
Consider the case of one individual who faced a serious health scare after vaping every ten seconds or the man whose lung collapsed after nine years of vaping.
Another growing concern is the issue of popcorn lung, a condition where lungs become scarred and the damage is irreversible.
For those without popcorn lung, there is potential for lung recovery from vaping-related damage.
Rehab 4 Addiction notes that “cells in the lung can regenerate, and studies show that the lungs demonstrate remarkable reparative capacity in response to illnesses or injury such as scarring or fibrosis.”
However, irreversible damage could occur depending on the extent of the damage, the frequency of vaping, and genetic factors.
The time it takes for lungs to heal varies individually, but developing an e-cigarette or vaping-associated lung injury (EVALI) can lead to permanent damage.
EVALI symptoms include shortness of breath, breathing pain, and coughing.
In severe cases, blood oxygen levels may decrease, potentially leading to fatal outcomes, although such instances are rare.
Dr. Andrew Freeman, speaking with the University of Utah, emphasized that the comprehensive effects of vaping are still not fully understood.
“Our lungs are not a good organ to absorb substances for recreational use,” Freeman stated.
“They are an incredible organ, providing our bodies with vital oxygen and exchanging carbon dioxide, all while protecting us from infections and other harmful elements from our environment.”
“We all begin to slowly lose lung function after about our early to mid-20s, and yet they must last us a lifetime.”
“If people don’t take care of their lungs, they really suffer more difficulties breathing later in life due to habits such as vaping.”