JABAR EKSPRES – A recent study conducted by a team of researchers from the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center found that vaping can trigger bronchitis or inflammation of the lungs.
According to the Mayo Clinic, the most common cause of chronic or long-term bronchitis is smoking. Bronchitis sufferers can experience a number of symptoms, such as chest pain, wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing up phlegm.
The study, published in the British Medical Journal, said 81 percent of participants who vape, at least in the past month, were prone to wheezing. This group was also more likely to experience bronchitis or bronchitis-like symptoms.
Read more: Three Seconds of Exercise in Three Times a Week Makes You Stronger
Some examples of bronchitis-like symptoms are coughing up phlegm and nasal congestion without a cold or just a cough that can last for three months.
The study also found that participants who vaped, at least in the past month, had a 78 percent higher risk of experiencing shortness of breath. This figure is considered very large and quite alarming.
“(The study further strengthens evidence) e-cigarettes cause respiratory symptoms that indicate the need for regulatory consideration regarding e-cigarettes,” said researcher Dr. Alanya Tackett as reported by the Express page, Monday (8/21/2023).
Tackett said the current regulations appear to underestimate the effects of e-cigarettes or vapes on health. In fact, there are various studies that have highlighted the use of vape can cause problems with teeth, lungs, and memory.
He added that the risk of bronchitis in vape users should not be underestimated. Bronchitis often gets better within three weeks. However, this condition can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia and respiratory failure.
Read more: 5 Tips to Prevent Early Aging Due to Exposure to Air Pollution
