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Is vaping bad for your health?

Smoking - Greater Knoxville ENT - Knoxville, TN
There has been a rise in the use of vape in recent years, especially among the young people. In one 2018 report, about 37 percent of 12th graders were reported to be vaping. That’s a 9 percent increase, compared with the 27 percent in 2017. Some people turned to vaping from smoking actual tobacco because the former seems to be less harmful. It may seem like it but vaping is still an unhealthy option How does vaping work? Vaping pertains to the act of inhaling vapor created by devices like electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes).  E-cigarettes are battery-operated devices. They have cartridges for filling liquids that contain nicotine, chemicals, and flavorings. These devices work by heating the liquid, turning it into a vapor which the user inhales. Hence, using e-cigarettes is also referred to as vaping.  Why are the health effects of vaping? Vaping hasn’t been around for too long to have data for its long-term health effects. However, health experts have seen serious lung health issues among those who vape. There are even reports of deaths. Before you jump into the trend of vaping, here are some facts about it that you should know:
  • It may expose you to fewer chemicals compared to tobacco smoking but it’s still harmful.
Inhaling liquid containing nicotine and other substances doesn’t really make vaping a better option than tobacco smoking. 
  • It’s highly addicting. 
In both regular and e-cigarettes, nicotine is one of the primary content. You don’t have to vape every day to develop an addiction. There are people who became addicted to vaping even if they don’t use it every day.
  • It’s potentially harmful to your lungs and heart.
There are still so many things to know about vaping and its long-term health effects. However, the current data show that it can potentially lead to chronic lung and heart health issues.
  • It doesn’t really help you quit smoking.
Some people think that using e-cigarettes can help them quit tobacco smoking but it’s far from the truth. Studies found out that those who resort to vaping to quit regular smoking ended up continuing the habit with both the regular and e-cigarettes. If you’re struggling to quit your smoking habit, a specialist may help you. Our doctors at Greater Knoxville ENT can provide you with cessation resources or tools. To request an appointment, you may call us at (865) 244-4396.   References: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/5-truths-you-need-to-know-about-vaping?amp=true https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/e-cigarettes.html