What is it?
Vapes are electronic cigarettes that heat up a dense liquid, composed of nicotine or THC, and produces an aerosol that people inhale.
Side Effects
Short-Term
- Coughing
- Shortness of breath
- Eye Irritation
- Headaches
- Dry and Irritated mouth and throat
- Anxiety/Confusion
- Nausea
Long-Term
- Lung injury
- Asthma
- Addiction
- E-cigarette/Vaping Associated Lung Injury (EVALI)
- Addiction
- Cancer
- Death
Why is it dangerous?
Vaping liquid contains Nicotine or THC which are highly addictive chemicals. In addition to the risk of addiction, vaping liquids contain heavy metals and other harmful chemicals that are known to cause lung injury.
THC vapes contain vitamin E acetate, an oily substance that hardens in the lungs and is linked to causing EVALI. EVALI is a serious and potentially fatal respiratory condition linked to the use of e-cigarettes and vaping products. Additionally, nicotine can impair brain development for individuals under the age of 21 because it affects parts of the brain responsible for memory and problem solving.