Try to observe around you how many people you see using e-cigarettes in one day and where they vape. If you look closely, e-cigarettes can be used anywhere convenient, not necessarily only in designated smoking areas. They do not emit a bad smell, use fragrant liquid, have a beautiful design, modern colors, are attractive to buy, and are easily available online. Most importantly, they are easy to carry. But did you know that e-cigarettes are actually one of the portable lung destroyers that can damage your lungs anytime, anywhere as you please?
The smoke from e-cigarettes is diffuse, drifts far, and is large in size with a fragrant scent, which is quite dangerous. This can be seen from many artists who request cooperation not to vape while they are performing because it causes respiratory problems. Many places have started to label not only no smoking but also include e-cigarette symbols because e-cigarette smoke is as harmful as regular cigarettes.
“Dr. Chontat Traithong, Pulmonologist and Respiratory Critical Care Specialist, Phyathai 2 Hospital” mentioned that nowadays more people are turning to e-cigarettes because they are easy to carry and convenient to use. However, this is like carrying a lung-destroying device for both the user and those close to them everywhere. E-cigarettes contain higher nicotine levels than regular cigarettes and many harmful chemicals, especially volatile substances that are dangerous to health, affecting both the user and those nearby. Continuous inhalation of the smoke can cause severe respiratory diseases.
Many people say e-cigarettes are safer than regular cigarettes?
In summary, this is not true because there is no data or research clearly stating that they are safer. The World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that advertising e-cigarettes as safer than regular cigarettes is prohibited. Therefore, neither e-cigarettes nor regular cigarettes should be used as both harm the body’s systems.
What are the risks for direct e-cigarette users?
In the short term, there is a risk of chronic inflammation of the nasal mucosa and respiratory tract lining, with symptoms such as:
- Nasal irritation
- Sore throat
- Runny nose
- Stuffy nose
- Coughing or coughing up blood
- Acute shortness of breath or fever in cases of severe pneumonia
- Low oxygen levels requiring intubation
- Lung damage caused by volatile substances in e-cigarettes
Is it risky just to be exposed to e-cigarette smoke?
People exposed to e-cigarette smoke are also at risk because secondhand smoke from users contains volatile substances that ignite to produce smoke. Being close to a user for a long time may cause diseases similar to those who vape directly.
Initial abnormal symptoms that should prompt a medical visit
- Nasal irritation
- Sore throat
- Chronic runny nose
- Shortness of breath
- Or feeling tired even after walking short distances
- Coughing up blood
The symptoms mentioned above require immediate medical attention. For heavy e-cigarette users or those wanting to check lung health, they should see a doctor for a physical examination and initial respiratory system check. If symptoms are severe or complications arise, a lung CT scan will also be necessary.
