Vaping is believed by many to be safer than traditional cigarettes, but new studies and cases are showing that this may not be so true. In late August 2019, one Illinois resident died after suffering from a vaping-associated lung injury, and the number of reported cases of respiratory symptoms among hospitalized vaping patients has doubled. As government and healthcare officials work to keep up with the damage caused by this destructive trend, people continue to suffer the consequences of these habits. Banyan Treatment Centers Heartland is breaking down the dangers of vaping addiction and how to heal.
Is Vaping Safe?
The long-term effects of vaping show that, no, vaping is not safe. While many e-cigarette companies say that vaping is less dangerous than traditional cigarettes, this is also because there are not nearly as many studies about the dangers of vaping as there are for traditional cigarettes. Additionally, compared to cigarette smoking, vaping is relatively new, so cases about vaping’s dangers are still coming to light.
Why Is Vaping Addictive?
Vaping can be addictive due to the presence of nicotine in most e-cigarettes and vaping liquids. Nicotine is a highly addictive substance that activates the reward centers in the brain, leading to feelings of pleasure and relaxation. The nicotine in e-cigarettes is delivered in a concentrated form, making it more potent and addictive than nicotine in tobacco cigarettes.
Additionally, the act of vaping itself can become a habit that is hard to break. Many people use vaping as a coping mechanism for stress or anxiety, which can reinforce addictive behavior. Over time, the brain and body can become dependent on nicotine, leading to withdrawal symptoms when attempting to quit.
Increase in Lung Injuries From Vaping
A growing number of people have started to experience respiratory issues due to the side effects of vaping. The dangerous symptoms of vaping lung damage include difficulties with breathing, inflammation, and popcorn lung. The number of lung injuries from vaping cases is on the rise in Illinois and nationwide.
This Illinois death related to lung injury from vaping shows how dangerous this trend in smoking can be. Vaping is just as dangerous as traditional cigarettes, and the health effects of vaping are only beginning to come to light. When users ingest other chemicals during vaping, like THC, there are additional physical risks to the body and lungs.
The Vaping Death in Illinois and What It Means for E-Cigarettes
This case and many others are showing that vaping is more dangerous than previously believed. 2019 saw the “Tobacco 21” law take effect, which effectively banned retailers from selling tobacco products to people under the age of 21. This law was adopted on the federal level, meaning it goes for all states. As more cases of vaping-associated lung injury and other injuries arise nationwide, it is likely that there will be increased pressure on vaping companies and distributors to keep consumers safer from the dangers of vaping.
Benefits of Quitting Vaping
Quitting vaping can have significant health benefits. A person that vapes regularly may experience damage to the lungs, which can lead to serious respiratory problems. By quitting, individuals can reduce their risk of developing respiratory diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer. Quitting vaping can also improve cardiovascular health. Nicotine in e-cigarettes can increase heart rate and blood pressure, which can lead to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. By quitting vaping, individuals can lower their risk of developing these serious health conditions.
In addition to the physical health benefits, a person who has successfully quit may experience a positive impact on mental health. Vaping is oftentimes a coping mechanism for stress and anxiety, but it can also result in addiction. By removing this crutch, individuals can break the cycle of dependency and regain control over their lives. Overcoming addiction can also lead to increased self-confidence and a sense of accomplishment, which can improve overall well-being. Additionally, individuals can save money and improve their relationships with loved ones who may have been concerned about their vaping habits.
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction to vape pens, marijuana, or other drugs, our team at Banyan’s Illinois drug rehab can help. We offer Heartland drug treatment for patients who are ready to get and stay sober. They will have access to life-changing therapy programs that promote healing from addiction and teach healthy coping mechanisms to apply moving forward.
Call our Heartland treatment center today at 888-280-4763 to learn more about our addiction treatment programs and services and how they can benefit you.
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