Over 6.4% population of the UK vapes almost regularly, and, according to an FDA report, around 2 million students from middle school and high school U.S. use e-cigarettes. These stats show that vaping has become a fashionable phenomenon even in minors. Vaping may benefit smokers and adults suffering from addictions, but it is also crucial to acknowledge its health effects.
Constituents of E-Liquid
Before we dive into the effects of vaping, it is necessary to look into its constituents. Generally, e-liquid contains nicotine, flavorings, and propylene glycol. These liquids may contain unknown substances, which may cause repercussions. Therefore, always check all its ingredients and their concentration before buying an e-liquid. The nicotine potency in a vape should not surpass 20mg/ml. Note that a 5% nicotine liquid is not suitable for beginners and non-smokers. Only heavy smokers trying to quit smoking may use a 5% nicotine solution to suppress their craving.
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Cancer Risks
The solid evidence that e-cigarettes cause cancer risks does not exist. Cancer Research U.K. suggests that harmful substances found in e-cigarettes are lower than in tobacco cigarettes. However, the Harvard Health Publishing blog post claims that e-liquids contain substances that may increase cancer risks in users.
Risks For Youth
Vaping probably has the most effect on young people. It hinders the brain development of young users, as nicotine changes the process formation of synapses. It also causes addiction, mood swings disorders, impulse control issues, and behavioral risks.
Most states restrict the use of vapes for people younger than 21 to protect young minds and bodies from deteriorating. While some states allow people above the age of 18 to vape. If ever you want to start vaping, make sure you are of legal age.
Heart Diseases
According to the American College of Cardiology, people who vape are more likely to get coronary heart diseases. Vapers are 56% more likely to develop heart diseases, strokes, heart attacks, depression, and coronary artery disease.
The addictive properties of nicotine can affect your heart and your blood pressure. Vaping stiffens your heart and blood vessels and reduces the rate of oxygenated blood that goes to your body. Vape may be better than cigarettes, however, and it is safer as cigarette smokers are 60% more at risk of developing heart diseases.
Lung Issues
Frequent vaping can cause nicotine toxicity which affects the lungs of the vaper. Long-term use of vaping can lead to acute lung injuries, causing problems for asthma patients. Vape liquid may comprise herbicides used to extinguish weeds, and these herbicides can cause asthma and lung cancer. Vaping liquid also contains diacetyl which can cause inflammation in your lungs and cause breathing problems. It is necessary to be aware of the concentration of ingredients of your e-liquid and use it carefully.
Teeth Problems
Oral issues are another health risk that vapers should acknowledge. Your oral cavity can indicate the internal problems that your body is having.
Our bodies are a web of organs. These organs are tightly connected, and an issue in one part of our body may show symptoms in other organs. Vaping may cause the yellowing of teeth, discoloration of gums, and tooth decay. These are symptoms of reduction of blood flow in the teeth. If your teeth do not get enough blood flow, it may eventually lead to tooth decay and gum recession.
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It’s Not Addictive
Despite all the health risks that vaping may cause, many people in this world can benefit from it. Vaping is not as damaging as addictive drugs. It has nicotine, but the percentage is as low as a patch of nicotine. It is not harmful or deadly for adults who follow safety measures and etiquette. However, too much of anything is bad.
One of the issues that vaping culture has is the lack of vapers who follow etiquette. The rules of vaping etiquette include finding the right location, respecting others, avoiding being an elitist, and controlling consumption.
Safer than Smoking
Vaping can help people stop smoking, according to a 2021 research. The FDA has also allowed a few e-cigarette companies to market their product in 2021. For people who are suffering from addiction, vaping can save their lives. It is also a cheaper alternative to tobacco cigarettes.
Finally, vapers need to be careful while shopping for vapes. They should always be mindful of their nicotine dose. If you are interested in vaping, you can try e-liquids that do not contain nicotine.
