Is E-Cigarette Use Harmful?
A e-cigarette is an electronic device that simulates tobacco smoking by heating a liquid into an aerosol that the user inhales. E-cigarettes use batteries to heat a liquid that typically contains nicotine (which is extracted from tobacco), propylene glycol, glycerol and flavorings.
Although e-cigarettes are not as harmful as cigarettes, doctors and researchers do not know what effect long-term use may have on the body. It is important to note that both vaping and traditional smoking can cause serious health problems, such as lung disease.
E-cigarettes have been around since 2007 and have evolved over time. They can be designed to look like regular cigarettes, cigars, pipes, pens and USB flash drives. They can either be disposable or rechargeable, with the option of using refillable cartridges. They have been marketed as safer and less addictive than cigarettes because they do not burn the tobacco that produces smoke.
The liquid used in e-cigarettes is known as e-juice or e-liquid. It usually contains nicotine, which is an addictive drug, and can also contain flavoring chemicals such as diacetyl, which can cause lung disease, and metals such as lead. Although e-liquids can be labeled as nicotine-free, many studies have shown that even those claiming to be nicotine-free contain trace amounts of the chemical. When e-juice is heated, toxic chemicals are released.
Studies have shown that both nicotine and e-cigarettes can harm the respiratory system. They can cause irritated and inflamed lungs and can damage the heart, blood vessels and nervous system. They can also increase the risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), which causes breathlessness and limits airflow to the lungs.
COPD is a progressive disease that can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender, and is the third leading cause of death worldwide [101]. A recent study has shown that when smokers with COPD switched to e-cigarettes, they significantly reduced conventional cigarette consumption and had fewer exacerbations compared to those who continued smoking. This was associated with an improved quality of life, including the ability to perform physical activities.
E-cigarette use is especially harmful for youth, young adults, and pregnant women, as it can cause addiction and harm brain development in the fetus. There is also evidence that it can worsen the symptoms of asthma and other respiratory diseases.
To reduce their risk of getting lung disease, people should quit smoking or vaping. They should talk to their doctor about their plans to stop. They can also try to identify what makes them want to vape or smoke, and find ways to distract themselves from cravings. They can pick a day to stop and tell their friends and family, and they should get rid of their e-cigarettes and other smoking products. They can also practice other healthy behaviors, such as eating fruits and vegetables, exercising, and getting enough sleep. They can also try nicotine replacement therapy. This is available at most pharmacies and some hospitals. It helps many people quit smoking and often has a lower cost than other cessation aids.電子煙