Vaping continuous? Here's what you need to be aware of
Recent studies and medical findings have shed light on the potential dangers of vaping, revealing that it could lead to significant long-term damage to oral, lung, and heart health.
Oral Health
Short-term effects of vaping include sore mouths and throats, but long-term exposure to chemicals and heavy metals in vape aerosols may contribute to oral tissue irritation or damage [4]. Vaping liquids make teeth sticky, promoting bacterial growth and plaque formation, which can increase susceptibility to periodontal disease – a serious condition that damages the tissue and bone supporting teeth [1].
Lung Health
Research indicates that vaping is linked to an increased risk of chronic lung conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A large meta-analysis shows that both current and former e-cigarette users have significantly higher odds of developing COPD, likely due to inhaling ultrafine particles, heavy metals, aldehydes, and harmful flavoring agents such as diacetyl [2][3]. These substances can cause lung inflammation, scarring, weakened immune function, and chronic respiratory problems.
Heart Health
Vaping adversely affects cardiovascular function similarly to smoking. Research shows vaping increases heart rate, blood pressure, and blood vessel constriction immediately after use and damages blood vessel function long term [1]. Vaping daily doubles the risk of heart attack, raises heart failure risk by 20%, and sustains a state of sympathetic activation ("fight or flight" mode), all of which increase long-term heart disease risk.
Other Concerns
While research is still evolving, available evidence indicates that vaping is not a safe alternative to smoking and can cause serious long-term damage. However, the long-term implications of vaping are not fully understood yet. Some studies suggest that vaping could potentially be more harmful to the immune system than previously thought, as it disrupts the lung's natural defense mechanism, leading to inflammation and weakening of immune cells [1].
Dr. Jeremy London, a medical professional who has treated young patients who have died from vaping-related complications, believes the consequences of vaping are far worse than those of traditional cigarettes [5]. He warns that vaping may also reduce sperm count, increase the risk of pregnancy loss and congenital disabilities, trigger asthma attacks, and heighten the chances of getting strokes – although these effects are not directly related to the effects of vaping, but mentioned in the context of smoking [6].
As research continues to uncover the long-term effects of vaping, it is essential to remain informed about the potential risks. Stay tuned to our channels for more updates on vaping and its impact on health.
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6352456/ [2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6493506/ [3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6493507/ [4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6118865/ [5] https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2019/09/26/764183135/vaping-linked-to-heart-attacks-and-death-in-young-people-cdc-says [6] https://www.healthline.com/health/vaping/harmful-effects-of-vaping#smoking-and-vaping-comparison
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