E-cigarettes & vaping devices have caused severe breathing issues around the world

E-cigarettes are now become a global phenomenon. They market e-ciggarettes and vapes as less harmful and alternatives to traditional cigarettes. It consists of a battery, a heating system, and a tank to hold liquid. And the liquid contains nicotine, flavors, and other harmful chemicals. These devices are commonly called Pods, E-hookah, vape pens, and tank systems they all look slightly different but work in the same way. 

It has been noticed after examination that vaping patient's lungs have been damaged by a disease as if they have been exposed to toxins. Doctors in the US have received many cases in the last few months where breathing has been a problem.

The patients with this problem are young and have a healthy background. The breathing problems have reached an extent where patients have been put on ventilators. 450 severe cases have been reported so far.

Doctors and researchers are in the process of finding the root cause. So far, it has been discovered that immune cells are packed with oils because of a few ingredients from vaping devices. More so, the patient's situation worsens very quickly.

The variety of different brands has made it almost impossible for researchers and doctors to actually find the origin of the problem.

Why vaping has gained popularity? 

Perceived as safety: 

Most people use vape to quit and reduce the harm of traditional cigarettes, due to the absence of tar. It is not ideally suggested to quit smoking, it can also be addictive and cause major health issues. 

Variety of flavors:

E-cigarettes and vapes come in a vast variety of fruity flavors, which can help attract a broader audience. 

Convenience: 

Vaping devices are portable and easy to use you don't need any lighter to burn them first, Also they are designed in such a way that they do not produce any odor like smoking which makes it socially acceptable to use in public places. 

Cost-effectiveness: 

E-cigarettes and vaping can be less expensive than traditional cigarettes. They are considered a one-time investment. 

Social and cultural trends: 

Vaping has now become a social trend for several reasons, by marketing strategies, influencers that influence youth, and societal perception as it is perceived less harmful. 

Vaping and e-cigarettes are marketed as safe alternatives, but they can pose a significant risk to your physical health such as it can have a major effect on your lungs. 

Inhalation of harmful chemicals: 

Nicotine:

 It can cause irritation in lung tissues and can reduce lung function. 

Heavy Metals: 

Heating elements in e-cigarettes release metals like lead and chromium. Which can cause damage to lung tissues. 

Lungs Irritation and Inflammation: 

Excessive use of E-cigarettes can cause lung irritation which can lead to chronic Bronchitis most common symptoms are constant coughing and shortness of breath. 

Potential for long-term damage

There are harmful effects of e-cigarettes which can cause your body long-term damage. 

Chronic respiratory disease

Reduce lungs capacity 

Fibrosis of lung tissues

Increased Oxidative stress: 

E-cigarettes and vaping can generate oxidative stress which can cause lung damage. This damage can lead to lung cancer. 

Allergic reactions:

Some individuals are sensitive to flavors and other ingredients that cause allergic reactions or asthma and other respiratory conditions. 

E-cigarettes can eliminate some of the harmful chemicals associated with traditional smoking, but it is far from harmless. The chemicals, and fine particles in e-cigarettes can cause short-term and long-term damage to lung health. Further research is essential to fully understand the risks, but current evidence suggests that vaping should be approached with caution, especially by non-smokers and young individuals.