Smoking not only has a detrimental effect on you, but the effects of second-hand smoke have been proven to harm those around you. Due to the dangers of smoking, many people have now switched to using electronic cigarettes(e-cigarettes)and vapes. However, there are certain health risks related to vaping that everyone should understand, especially because many of these products include tobacco and/or harmful chemicals. E-cigarettes and vaping are becoming increasingly popular among young adults. Some of the popularity comes from the myth that they are considerably safer than cigarettes. 

The top myths surrounding e-cigarettes

Myth 1: Vaping is a good alternative to smoking 

Many smokers believe that vaping can help them quit the act of smoking. However, not enough research is available to prove that vaping can have such an effect on smokers. The effective method, which is also safest, for people who want to stop smoking altogether is to try nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) instead of vaping. Some products you can use are nicotine patches, gums, and lozenges. Professional counseling can also prove helpful in your journey toward becoming a non-smoker. Your doctor may also prescribe medications to aid in this as well.

Myth 2: Vaping does not turn into an addiction 

Even though advertisers say e-cigarettes are safe and harmless, most contain highly addictive nicotine, the same chemical that makes cigarettes addictive. Nicotine can stimulate and depress your nervous system, and using e-cigarettes can start the addiction process. Once it reaches the brain, nicotine causes an increase in dopamine levels. Dopamine causes the pleasure receptors to become active. However, the pleasure sensation does not last long, making the brain crave more nicotine. Nicotine can harm the development of the adolescent brain, which continues developing until age 25.

Myth 3: Vaping is not harmful 

Vaping can be very harmful, especially to kids and young adults, contrary to popular belief that it does not cause any damage to the body. Besides nicotine, liquids in the vapes contain chemicals that can lead to disorders of the heart and lungs. One of the major concerns is that vaping has chemicals that can lead to the development of cancer. Formaldehyde, another chemical in vapes, causes toxicity when it is heated. Furthermore, pregnant women should not vape as vaping products can harm them and their children. Additionally, e-juice can cause problems if it ends up being swallowed, including: 

  • Vomiting 
  • Nausea
  • Seizures 
  • Breathing difficulties

Myth 4: Vaping is just flavoring 

Chemicals provide flavors to the vaping products people use. Some of these chemicals are not harmful if you ingest them. However, their inhalation into the lungs can be unsafe for the body. 

If you need help quitting, reach out to your doctor who can discuss strategies to reduce and end usage.