RESPIRATORY ILLNESS LINKED TO “VAPING”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported at least 450 illnesses and 6 deaths associated with e-cigarette or “vaping” use in 33 states in the United States (US) and 1 US territory. While the exact cause of illness is unknown, those affected report history of using e-cigarettes, whether nicotine and/or tetrohydrocannabinoil (THC), and have similar presentation of symptoms. The cause has not been identified as infectious, so it is not contagious. Therefore, the illness is highly suspected to be linked specifically to the use of the product and the chemicals contained in e-cigarettes. The illness is an irreversible lung disease; the effects that the chemicals have on the body will result in lifelong respiratory complications.
While e-cigarettes were thought to be beneficial for those trying to quit smoking cigarettes, they are not recommended if you have never used tobacco products, are under the age of 18, and/or are pregnant or nursing. E-cigarettes or vaping products come in a variety of brands, names, colors, and preparations. Nicotine is the most common, but other substances can be traced in the product, such as marijuana, or THC. Some of the most common brands are JUUL, which is available at local retailers where cigarettes are sold, and PAX era, which is a product that looks like a JUUL but delivers a marijuana product. Several other products exist and can be purchased online or in other retail locations.
Nicotine is a harmful substance and can alter brain development in children and adolescents. Marijuana is a recreational drug that is illegal to consume in the state of Tennessee. Consult with your healthcare provider for more information on how to quit smoking any substance if you are considering using an electronic product as a substitute.
Contact Poison Control if you are concerned about your health after using an e-cigarette product. It is clinically recommended to report to your doctor if you use e-cigarettes or “vape” and have any of the following symptoms:
-Cough, shortness of breath, chest pain
-Fatigue, fever, weight loss
-Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
These symptoms may require further testing including but not limited to laboratory work or imaging at your primary care office. You may be further directed to the local Health Department or the Emergency Department.
For more information on e-cigarette use and young adults, please visit this link from the CDC. The CDC offers several other resources in regards to the ongoing investigation of the respiratory illness, the dangers of nicotine use, and youth tobacco prevention.
**If your symptoms are life threatening, report to the nearest Emergency Department.
Resources:
https:://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/e-cigarettes/severe-lung-disease.html
https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/e-cigarettes/Quick-Facts-on-the-Risks-of-E-cigarettes-for-Kids-Teens-and-Young-Adults.html