When you start vaping, you take in the vapour made by your electronic or battery-powered device. Some find that getting rid of nicotine is easier through replacement therapy. Most people are worried about how it affects their health.
People working in public health are worried about popcorn lung. We explain the condition of popcorn lung and talk about the link to vaping.
What Is Popcorn Lung?
Medically, popcorn lung means bronchiolitis obliterans. Because the small airways in the lungs inflame, it becomes hard for patients to take in air.
People with popcorn lungs usually have:
- A dry cough
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
Chemical workers in popcorn factories were the first to suffer this illness when they inhaled a flavouring agent.
What Causes Popcorn Lung?
Some chemicals can cause a serious problem known as popcorn lung if inhaled. Most disease cases among vapers during this period are likely related to diacetyl. Before, buttery movie popcorn was often made with this substance.
With time, diacetyl may result in scarring in your small lungs that leads them to get narrow. You find it more difficult to breathe.
You may also be exposed to this compound by being in contact with industrial chemicals. This isn’t just about vaping.
Is Diacetyl Found in Vapes?
Large varieties of the vape liquids from long ago were made with diacetyl, a substance linked to a lung disease called popcorn lung. On the other hand, UK’s top brands no longer use this ingredient currently. Like TRPR, UK rules bar or put strict rules on products containing hazardous chemicals such as diacetyl. This has been confirmed by the UK Health Security Agency in their public health guidance.
For this reason, e-liquids from the UK can only be accepted by the market if they have been through testing. The quality of vape goods in the United Kingdom is commonly higher than in a lot of other places.
Can Vaping Cause Popcorn Lung?
Up to now, no strong evidence links vaping to popcorn lung. Nearly all vape liquids in the UK are free of diacetyl.
Health experts believe the risk is very small, especially if you think about smoking. It’s important to realise that inhaling anything apart from clean air isn’t completely safe.
Importance of High-Quality E-Liquids
Ensure your products are safe by buying from companies that follow UK safety requirements. Quality e-liquids are tested in a lab, and they do not contain dangerous substances. Avoid:
- Cheap or fake vape liquids
- Products without proper labelling
- Imported e-liquids with unknown ingredients
Look for vape juices made in the UK or EU, as these follow strict safety laws.
Other Vaping Safety Tips
Stay safe by:
- Buying your vape products from reputable shops or websites
- Using the right device for your e-liquid
- Cleaning your vape regularly to avoid burnt coils or leftover liquid
- Following health updates from trusted sources like the NHS or Public Health England
How Vaping Compares to Smoking
Officials from the medical field say that vaping is considered safer than smoking cigarettes. The chemicals tar and carbon monoxide found in cigarettes are proven to harm the lungs.
You won’t find any harmful chemicals in vape products. Still, cannabis risks are greatest for those who don’t smoke and younger individuals.
Final Thoughts
In the UK, you won’t get popcorn lung from e-cigarettes as long as the authorities have authorised the products you use. Buy e-liquid only when you know it is safe and adheres to the top vaping guidelines.
Want to get rid of your smoking habit? Using an e-cigarette may help you out. Even then, remember that your lungs are important, so make healthy choices and find out what you don’t know.