A majority of people nowadays are heavily addicted to cigarettes and their goal is to quit. Every generation has an invention which defines it. The internet was one, and then came cell phones. Electronic cigarettes are another one of those inventions that is popular right now, but it has also ignited a firestorm of debate and controversy. There is a specific purpose of electronic cigarettes, which is to provide an alternate to the stench spreading, burning and ash produced by normal cigarettes.
But what are the consequences and implications of giving up conventional cigarettes in favor of electronic cigarettes? Does it make your body healthier? You may end up disappointed with the fact— The fact is, e-cigarettes are tobacco products too, and we still have a lot to learn about the health consequences of vaping.
But Vaping Still Better Than Smoking, Right?
Based on the limited research so far, the answer is afraid to be a "YES". Vaping is generally considered to be a less harmful alternative to smoking traditional cigarettes, though not that recommended.
Traditional cigarettes contain over 7,000 chemicals, many of which are toxic and carcinogenic. When tobacco is burned, it produces tar, carbon monoxide, ammonia, formaldehyde, and numerous other harmful substances. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), at least 69 of these chemicals are known to cause cancer. The combustion process itself generates additional harmful byproducts that contribute to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and various cancers. People who smoke increase their risk of developing lung cancer by about 25 times that of people who don’t smoke.
E-cigarettes work through a different mechanism than traditional cigarettes. Instead of burning nicotine-laden tobacco, e-cigarettes vaporize a liquid solution— commonly referred to as e-liquid or vape juice— that typically contains lower nicotine, flavorings, and other additives. This process eliminates many of the harmful byproducts associated with combustion. There is no doubt that e-cigarette users are exposed to far lower levels of harmful substances compared to those who smoke traditional cigarettes.
People who switched to e-cigarettes and vape liquid reported that their blood vessels started to recover. One thing the medical experts are sure about is that quitting smoking in all forms is great for a person’s health. However, for millions of people who are addicted to conventional cigarettes, the idea of e-cigarettes has become an acceptable norm.
Limitations and Concerns of E-Cigarette Use
Vaping Still Exposes Users to Nicotine
Indeed, studies show that e-cigarettes typically deliver fewer toxic substances compared to combustible tobacco products. However, this reduction does not extend to nicotine, which remains a central component in most e-liquids.
Nicotine is an addictive substance that can lead to dependence and pose various health risks. The continued consumption of nicotine can contribute to cardiovascular issues, including increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure. Many smokers switch to vaping intending to eventually quit nicotine altogether; however, the allure of flavorful e-liquids and the ability to customize nicotine levels can create a situation where users remain dependent on nicotine for an extended period, potentially derailing their attempts at cessation.
Flavored E-Liquids May Contain Harmful Chemicals
The juice contained in e-cigarettes, which is called "vape liquid", varies among different brands. This is one of the reasons why FDA is considering regulating this product. The new research, published in the journal Scientific Reports in December 2019, unpacks the list of chemicals that make flavored e-liquids and pods used in vaping and their damaging effect on lung tissue, including inflammation and genetic damage which could presage long-term risk for respiratory disease and even cancer.
Health Concerns of E-Cigarette Use
While experts are unsure about the long-term effects, evidence suggests that vaping may result in the following health impacts:
- Asthma
- Lung scarring
- Organ damage
- EVALI (e-cigarette, or vaping, product use associated lung injury)
- Addiction
- Cigarette smoking
- Second-hand exposure
- Explosions
- Cancer
- Weakened immune system
- Delayed brain development in children and teens
Some people also experience immediate side effects from vaping, such as:
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Mouth irritation
Other Aids to Quit Smoking
Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)
NRT provides low doses of nicotine devoid of the poisonous ingredients in tobacco. Products include:
- Nicotine Patches: Transdermal patch will release a constant amount of nicotine throughout the day.
- Nicotine Gums: Chewing gum containing nicotine that helps manage the urges and potential withdrawal symptoms.
- Nicotine Lozenges: Similar to that of gum, but these pieces will dissolve in the mouth and release nicotine to curb craving.
- Inhalers: These allow users to inhale a vaporized form of nicotine.
- Nasal Sprays: Deliver nicotine through the nasal membranes for quick absorption.
Prescription Medications
There are prescription drugs that will help reduce the cravings and withdrawal symptoms, including:
- Bupropion (Zyban): An antidepressant that helps reduce nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
- Varenicline (Chantix): This medication affects the nicotine receptors in the brain to diminish the withdrawal symptoms and the pleasure brought about when smoking.
Behavioral Therapy
Working with a trained therapist can help address the psychological aspects of addiction. Techniques include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Looks to change negative thought patterns that contribute to smoking.
- Motivational Interviewing: This would help in solidifying an individual's determination to quit smoking.
- Support Groups: Interacting with people who are also trying to give up smoking can be encouraging and good to quit smoking.
- Nicotine Withdrawal Timeline:Follow the Nicotine Withdrawal timeline to encourage yourself and realize you are truly on the way to success.
Assess the Impact of E-Cigarettes on Health
For people who are considering switching from conventional cigarettes to e-cigarettes, the verdict on whether there are tangible and significant benefits to their health from making the switch is still in the pipeline. Addiction, long-term effects, and possible risks associated with the ingredients of e-liquids raise many concerns. It is a provocative question on which researchers are spending millions of dollars to get results that are more conclusive.
COMMENTS