The Dangers of Vaping

Recently, vaping has become more popular amongst teens. It is marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, but it is not. Companies try to make teens and minorities use their products by advocating that it is safer than cigarettes and has various flavors. Vaping is just as bad, and can even be worse. Vaping has increased 900% since 2014. Some popular brands are Juul, Smok, GeekVape, and Aspire.

Effects on the Brain

Nicotine is the main substance in vapes. It is an extremely addictive substance that is also found in cigarettes. This is what makes you want to take continuous hits from the vape.

Just like cigarettes, vapes are toxic and contain over 7,000 chemicals, 250 of which we do not know. The chemicals can cause a raise in blood pressure and adrenaline, possibly leading to cardiovascular problems.

Effects on the Body

Vaping can cause cancer in every part of our bodies. Tooth decay, lung illness, and bad breath are the most common effects. Some lung illnesses consist of coughing up blood, chest pain, wheezing, a fever, and vomiting.

Most causes of lung cancer today are caused by some kind of cigarette or vape. Hundreds of thousands are impacted by lung or cardiovascular disease from smoking.

Those who vape have higher levels of cholesterol compared to nonsmokers, higher blood pressure, and a diminished ability for circulating blood throughout the body. When blood cannot reach every part of our body, we can become dizzy, develop cramps, and might have a stroke.

What You Can Do

If you are a young individual who is addicted to vaping or smoking, contact an adult for help. Many think that they can overcome it themselves, but support is necessary when you are in withdrawals.

If you are ever in a situation involving peer pressure and are tempted to use a foreign substance, look back at the situation and think about if it is what you want to be doing. Think about the bad effects it will cause to your mind and body. After, refuse to take the substance. It is always ok to say no. Walk away from the site as soon as possible and get a teacher, parent, or any other trusted adult.