Seven health risks from vaping to watch out for - including popcorn lung disease
E-cigarettes are often touted as a safer option to smoking - but one health expert says they can actually be just as damaging to your health.
Many see vaping as a great way to cut back on traditional cigarettes, a step on the ladder to one day stopping for good.
But in recent years, various health bodies and experts have warned of their potential dangers.
Mike Jones, medical and health author at Smart Fitness Edge, spoke to Express.co.uk about some of the damage vaping can cause.
He said: "Vaping may seem like a harmless alternative to cigarettes, but it can be just as damaging to your health. It's important to take steps to quit if you're already vaping.
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“Consider techniques such as replacing nicotine with something else or setting up a schedule for reducing your intake of vaping products.
“Seek professional help if needed.
“Many people choose to smoke to cope with stress and anxiety. However, cigarettes can be dangerous and even deadly over time.
“Vaping has become increasingly popular due to its perceived safety compared to cigarettes. However, there are still hidden dangers that people may not be aware of.
“Educating yourself about the possible health risks associated with vaping is important so you can make an informed choice if you decide to vape."
He shared seven health risks that can come with vaping.
Medical and health author Mike Jones says some vapers experience throat irritation due to the high temperatures used for vaping, as well as the presence of certain ingredients in the e-liquid. (PA)Popcorn lung disease
“The chemical diacetyl in some vape juices has been linked to a rare lung disease called popcorn lung disease (bronchiolitis obliterans),” he said.
“Symptoms include shortness of breath, wheezing and chest tightness that worsen over time if left unchecked.”
Damage to the cardiovascular system
Mr Jones said: “Research suggests that regular vaping can harm the cardiovascular system by causing heart attacks, strokes or hypertension due to nicotine's impact on blood pressure levels and vessel constriction after smoking or vaping sessions.”
Risk of cancer
He commented: “Long-term exposure to some toxic chemicals found in vape juice may increase the risk of cancer, including mouth cancer, tongue cancer or throat cancer, depending on where they reside when you vape these substances into your body.”
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Damage to lungs
“Vaping involves inhaling vaporised chemicals, which can cause inflammation and damage the lungs,” he said.
“Specifically, vaping has been linked to an increase in bronchitis, asthma, and other respiratory illnesses.”
Nicotine addiction
Mr Jones said: “Many vape juices contain nicotine, a highly addictive drug known for its adverse health effects.
“Regular use of vaping could lead to addiction and long-term health problems associated with nicotine use.”
Exposure to toxic chemicals
“Many vape juices contain chemicals such as diacetyl, formaldehyde, and heavy metals that are potentially dangerous when inhaled regularly over a long period of time,” he explained.
“These toxins can lead to shortness of breath, skin irritation, and other health issues.”
Irritating throat
He added: “Some vapers experience throat irritation due to the high temperatures used for vaping as well as the presence of certain ingredients in the e-liquid.
“This can result in coughing fits, sore throats, and hoarseness among vapers.”
What does the NHS say about vaping?
The health body says that vaping is 'far less harmful than cigarettes, and can help you quit smoking for good'.
In terms of how safe they are, the NHS says vaping is not completely risk-free, 'but it poses a small fraction of the risk of smoking cigarettes. The long-term risks of vaping are not yet clear'.
E-cigarettes do not produce tar or carbon monoxide, two of the most harmful elements in tobacco smoke.
The liquid and vapour contain some potentially harmful chemicals also found in cigarette smoke, but at a much lower level, says the health body.
In the UK, e-cigarettes are tightly regulated for safety and quality.
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