Whether you are a longtime smoker or an ex-smoker, you should be aware of the side effects of vaping without nicotine. The main risk is that you will suffer from a lung injury. However, you can reduce your chances of getting this kind of condition by stopping smoking or by choosing a less dangerous form of cigarette.
Vascular function
Several studies have examined the effects of vaping on vascular function. These studies have found that the aerosol produced by vaping devices likely impairs blood vessel function, like traditional cigarette smoke.
One study investigated the impact of vaping on endothelial function. The endothelium is a thin layer of cells that lines the inside of blood vessels. When the endothelium is damaged, it can lead to a thickening of the artery wall and reduce the flow of blood. This damage can cause poor circulation and may increase your risk of heart problems.
Researchers compared the vascular function of rats exposed to e-cigarettes, combustible cigarette smoke, and controls. Each group of eight rats was exposed to one session of products. The results were reported in the journal Radiology.
Lung health
Using e-cigarettes has become a popular alternative to smoking cigarettes. They are designed to provide flavor without harshness. Vaping can be a good way to quit smoking and may help reduce your risk of lung disease. It can also lower your risk of heart attacks and strokes. However, it is important to know the risks and benefits of e-cigarettes.
A new study found that e-cigarettes can lead to an increase in oxidative stress and inflammation in cell lines. It also may affect the susceptibility to certain viruses, such as SARS-CoV-2.
The study was conducted in mice, who were exposed to e-cigarette aerosol. They were not affected by apoptosis (cell death). Instead, e-cigarette vapour caused significant elevations in TNFa and IL-1b, two of the more important inflammatory mediators.
Mouth dryness and irritation
During an e-cigarette session, your mouth may experience dryness and irritation. These effects are caused by chemicals in the e-liquid.
Propylene glycol (PG), a common ingredient in e-liquids, is a hydrophilic chemical that draws water from the mouth. This is one of the major reasons that PG can lead to dryness.
Another common ingredient in e-liquids is vegetable glycerin (VG). VG is also a humectant, which means it absorbs water. This can lead to dry mouth and tooth decay.
Other e-liquid ingredients that can cause sore throat are flavorings, nicotine, and coils used in atomizers. If you are experiencing soreness and irritation, try using a higher VG ratio of vape juice.
EVALI (e-cigarette, or vaping, product use associated lung injury)
EVALI is an inflammatory response in the lungs that is triggered by inhaled substances. It can be a serious, life-threatening disease that mimics infectious pneumonia. Symptoms may include shortness of breath, cough, fever, headache, chills, and rapid heart rate.
The disease is associated with the use of e-cigarettes. These devices are battery-operated devices that create aerosolized nicotine and other substances. They contain diluents such as propylene glycol and benzene, as well as metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
Several studies have suggested that e-cigarettes may cause a lung injury. Currently, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the US Food and Drug Administration are working with the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists to investigate EVALI.
Smoking cessation
Using vaping devices such as electronic cigarettes can be a good way to quit smoking. But it comes with its own set of risks.
Aside from the nicotine, you may also be exposed to other hazardous chemicals. One study found that e-cigarette aerosols contain a variety of undesirable chemicals. These chemicals, often associated with cancer, can cause inflammation and irritation.
For instance, diacetyl is used in buttery flavors. The chemical is a known respiratory irritant. It has been linked to serious respiratory illnesses.
Another study found that vaping marijuana oil caused one person to hallucinate. While the effects were milder than those of smoking cigarettes, the effects were still significant.
Health risks for ex-smokers
Using an e-cigarette can be an effective way to quit smoking, but it can also lead to other health complications, including permanent brain damage. There are several reasons for this.
First, nicotine is a highly addictive substance. It has been shown to increase heart rate and blood pressure. In the short-term, this could cause an increased risk of a heart attack. Besides nicotine, other substances produced by smoking contribute to lung and tooth decay.
In addition to nicotine, e-cigarette liquids contain flavorings that can lead to a variety of health problems. Some of the chemicals are linked to an increase in cancer.
The best way to avoid these complications is to completely quit smoking. If you choose to stop vaping, you should start by cutting down gradually. This is especially important if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
In conclusion, vaping without nicotine can still have negative side effects. While it is true that vaping without nicotine may be less harmful than vaping with nicotine, the chemicals and other ingredients in e-liquids can still have negative effects on the body. These side effects can include respiratory irritation, dry mouth and throat, headaches, and dizziness.
Additionally, the long-term effects of vaping without nicotine are not yet fully understood and require further research. It is important for individuals to be aware of the potential side effects of vaping, regardless of whether or not they contain nicotine. Overall, it is best to avoid vaping altogether to minimize the potential risks to health.