If you are unaware of the term “vaping”, “juuling” or “e-cigarettes”, then it’s time to get educated on one of the most current epidemics happening across the United States. The trend in vaping has risen drastically, especially among the youth and has become a threat to public health.

What is Vaping?

Vaping is the process of inhaling and exhaling out of an aerosol produced by a battery-powered device, typically containing flavored and unflavored nicotine. A vape device, such as the juul, is composed of 4 parts: a cartridge that holds the e-liquid, atomizer, a battery, and a mouthpiece to inhale.Vaping was essentially marketed as a safer alternative to smoking traditional cigarettes but new studies and diagnoses have said otherwise. The controversy with e-cigarettes began shortly after its linkage to nicotine addiction, lung damage, and other serious health factors.

Signs Your Teen is Vaping:

Vaping has become an extremely popular activity among the youth demographic. In fact, according to the juul vaping lawsuit attorneys from The Dunken Law Firm, more than 3.6 million youths have tried an e-cigarette before. It’s likely your own teenager has tried an e-cigarette or has been around others that have. Luckily, there are some warning signs to look out for that can help detect if your teenager is vaping. 

Sweet Scent

E-cigarettes don’t have the distinct odor as a traditional cigarette thus making it harder to detect. However, many teenagers choose e-liquid fruity flavors such as mango, bubble gum, mint, watermelon and more. These sweet smells may be a sign of vape use.

Bloodshot Eyes

Bloodshot eyes can be an indicator your teen is vaping, especially when there aren’t any other physical signs.

Thirst

In general, e-cigarettes contain ingredients such as propylene glycol and glycerol that some research suggests an increase in thirst.

Irritability

If your teen is having a shorter temper than usual, it could be a sign of nicotine withdrawal. Other common physical and mental symptoms of nicotine withdrawal are as follows:

  • Headaches
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Tingling
  • Coughing 
  • Insomnia

Consistent Cough

Vaping is harmful to the lungs which makes breathing more difficult. If your teenager is coughing more persistently than ever, look into this further.

Health Risks Related with Vaping

According to the CDC, as of October 29, 2019, there have been almost 2,000 medical cases reported all associated with e-cigarettes and lung injuries. These cases resulted in 37 confirmed deaths across 24 states. Based on CDC’s data, 14% of these patients are younger than 18, while 40% are in between the age range of 18-24. 

Talk to Your Teen About Vaping

Overall, it’s important to educate your teens on the dangers of vaping. Not only is vaping a danger to their health, but it can negatively affect their performance in school, physical activities, and relationships. It’s also extremely addictive. Before you discuss vaping dangers with your teenager, do your research. The more information you know about it, the more credible you’ll appeal to them. You also want to avoid lecturing because that doesn’t allow for an open conversation. Instead, if you ask questions about vaping to your kid you’ll get insight of how much information they know about it, or if they know people who’ve tried it. Lastly, discuss peer pressure and fitting in at school. The struggles of peer pressure can give motive to your teenager to engage in vaping activities.