Vaping by using e-cigarettes has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially in teens and young adults. While many major e-cigarette marketers claim that their product is safer than traditional cigarettes, this does not mean that vaping is in any way safe or healthy. In fact, it can lead to long-lasting respiratory problems as well as a slew of other health consequences. Because of the variety of flavors that are available and due to a large amount of misinformation regarding vaping, many people of all ages have become hooked on nicotine. It’s important to spread awareness regarding how vaping can permanently affect one’s health and how to go about kicking nicotine for good.
Understanding What E-Cigarettes Are and How They Work
E-cigarettes are thin, sleek, and discreet items that often appear similar in size to a flash drive or a pen. They are rechargeable electronic devices that use liquid pods that can be made in a variety of different flavors. These pods contain nicotine, which is what makes vaping so addicting. E-cigarettes utilize a heating component that warms up the liquid within the pod producing an aerosol that is inhaled into the lungs. This creates a brief “high” or sense of relaxation just as a traditional cigarette would. However, the liquid pods used with e-cigarettes typically contain far more nicotine than a traditional cigarette. Thus, an individual can become hooked quickly and feel the need to vape more and more to experience the same desired effects.
Why People Choose to Vape
There are a lot of reasons why people may choose to vape. For many long-term smokers who are trying to quit, they may look at vaping as a less unhealthy alternative or as a way to help them slowly quit for good. In the case of many young people, they may have begun vaping in order to fit in with people at school or because they think it will make them look cool. They may simply want to experiment with it to see what it feels likes. Others may view vaping as a misdirected way to try to cope with anxiety or depression.
How Vaping Affects the Body
Not only is vaping addicting, but it poses a lot of health concerns as well.
- Vaping can actually impede the development of a young person’s brain, particularly targeting the area of the brain that affects learning, mood, and attention.
- The flavors within liquid pods can expose the individual to chemicals that can lead to cancer, lung disease, and cardiovascular disease.
- Vaping pods often contain a chemical called Acrolein, which can cause injury to the lungs as well as asthma and lung cancer.
- Vaping can destroy normal, healthy bacteria within the mouth leading to gum disease and, therefore a plethora of oral problems.
- The nicotine that is taken into the body through vaping can cause blood pressure to spike, leading to heart issues.
- Vaping can increase one’s risk of a heart attack or stroke and can lead to problems with blood circulation.
- Vaping can cause restlessness and sleep problems.
How to Quit Vaping
#1. If you are ready to quit vaping, first consider why you ever began in the first place. Did you do it in order to fit in? If so, you may consider switching up your friends and staying away from those who may pressure you to do things you don’t want to do. Perhaps, you struggled with anxiety or depression and were looking for a way to cope. If this is your situation, you should consider speaking with your doctor, who can help provide you with healthier and more effective treatment.
#2. Identify what triggers you to vape. Is it stress within a relationship, work, or school? Is it boredom or loneliness? Once you have identified your triggers, you can make the necessary changes to learn how to deal with these triggers without turning to vaping.
#3. Get rid of any vaping products. You don’t want to surround yourself with anything that may tempt you once you have decided to quit.
#4. Tell those around you that you are quitting. They can not only hopefully help to hold you accountable, but they will know to show you respect by not smoking or vaping in front of you.
#5. Look for better ways to cope with stress, whether that be exercising, speaking with a therapist or trusted friend, taking a walk in nature, reading a book, practicing yoga, or journaling.
There is a lot of misinformation out there about the use of e-cigarettes. Many people view vaping as a healthier alternative to smoking traditional cigarettes, not knowing that vaping also poses a wide variety of health risks. Vaping is especially dangerous for young people as it can impede the development and health of their brains. The chemicals ingested through vaping are also dangerous and can lead to cancer, lung disease, and cardiovascular problems. Vaping can increase the risk of heart attack or stroke and can cause sleep problems. Many people choose to vape as a way to cope with stress, anxiety, and depression. Vaping is not an alternative to professional treatment for a mental health disorder and there are far better and healthier treatment options available. If you’re struggling with your mental health, our team at Achieve Concierge can help you get the treatment you need. Call (619) 393-5871 today to learn more about the types of services we provide.