The Dangers of Vaping: What You Should Know

How Vaping Affects Your Health

Vaping may seem harmless, but it can lead to serious and sometimes lasting health problems.

1. Lung Damage

The effects of vaping often start in the lungs. Inhaling vapor from electronic cigarettes can irritate, inflame or even permanently damage lung tissue. Some users develop lung conditions like EVALI (e-cigarette or vaping product use-associated lung injury). Symptoms include coughing, chest pain and shortness of breath. These issues can quickly worsen and, in severe cases, be life-threatening.

2. Nicotine Addiction

Most vape liquids contain nicotine, an addictive chemical that comes from tobacco plants. Even though vaping does not burn tobacco like traditional cigarettes, it still delivers nicotine into your body. When you inhale it, nicotine quickly enters your bloodstream and makes your brain release dopamine, a feel-good chemical that reinforces the habit.

Teens are more sensitive to nicotine, making it easier for them to get addicted. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns that nicotine can interfere with brain development, which can impact learning, memory and self-control. Many teens who start vaping think they can stop anytime, but end up as regular users.

Be careful around e-cigarettes that claim to be nicotine-free. Studies have found that even these products still contain trace amounts of nicotine.

3. Increased Blood Pressure and Heart Risks

Nicotine does not just affect your brain. It also puts stress on your heart and blood vessels. Many people don’t realize that vaping can raise blood pressure and heart rate shortly after use. Over time, this can put you at risk for more serious heart problems, like stroke, heart attack or heart disease.

4. Exposure to Harmful Chemicals

Some people assume that because vaping does not burn tobacco, it is free of toxins. That is a dangerous myth. Vape products can contain a wide range of harmful substances, including:

• Cancer-causing chemicals, such as formaldehyde and acetaldehyde
• Flavorings like diacetyl that can lead to “popcorn lung,” a serious lung condition
• Heavy metals like nickel and lead
• THC, the chemical in marijuana that causes a “high”

5. Oral and Dental Problems

Vaping also affects your oral health. The chemicals in vape aerosol can dry out your mouth, irritate your gums and change the balance of healthy bacteria. These issues can lead to gum disease, cavities and bad breath. On top of that, nicotine reduces blood flow to the gums, making it harder for your mouth to heal from injuries.

Is Vaping Worse Than Smoking?

This is a complicated question. Traditional cigarettes contain over 7,000 chemicals, many of which are known to be toxic. Vaping contains fewer of these substances, so in some ways, vaping is less harmful than smoking. But that does not mean it is safe.

E-cigarettes still expose your body to harmful chemicals, especially if used regularly. And because vaping is relatively new, we don’t know all the long-term health effects. What we do know is that whether you smoke or vape, you’re putting your health at risk.

Common Misconceptions About Vaping

Many myths about vaping make it seem safer than it is. Let’s clear up a few.

 “It’s Just Water Vapor”

False. Vape clouds are not made of water. They contain harmful substances like nicotine, heavy metals and chemical flavorings that can irritate or damage your lungs.

 “Vaping Is Not Addictive”

Also false. Cigarettes contain nicotine, and so do most e-cigarettes. Nicotine is one of the most addictive drugs available. Teens who vape can become addicted quickly, sometimes without realizing it.

 “Everyone Is Doing It”

Not true. While vaping is more common than it used to be, most teens do not smoke or vape. In 2024, 5.9% of youth used e-cigarettes.

 “It Helps You Quit Smoking”

Some adults turn to vaping to quit smoking cigarettes. But there’s limited evidence that this approach works long-term. Because most vapes still contain nicotine, many users stay addicted.

How to Quit Vaping

If you or your teen is looking to quit vaping, it doesn’t have to feel out of reach. We have proven steps you can take to help.

• Make a plan — Set a quit date and write down your reasons for quitting. Remove all vape pens, cartridges and chargers from your home and car.
• Understand your triggers — Do you vape when you are bored, anxious or around certain people? Once you know what sets you off, you can plan ahead. This way, you can plan to use healthy alternative habits instead.
• Prepare for cravings — Anticipate withdrawal symptoms and plan healthy ways to manage them, such as staying busy or practicing relaxation techniques.
• Get support — Talk to your physician or health care provider. They can recommend therapies and nicotine replacement options or refer you to a quit program.
• Use tools and apps — You can find many free tools through public health websites or mobile apps that offer daily support and tips.
• Don’t give up — It is normal to have setbacks. If you slip, remind yourself why you want to quit and try again. Every attempt is a step closer to success.

Dr. Waxner offers this insight: “Quitting vaping is not just about stopping a habit. It is about making a commitment to your health. Maybe you will start to see the changes in how you feel each day. Those improvements can be the motivation to keep going.”