The Dangers Of E-Cigarette or Vaping Product Use-Associated Lung Injury

In recent years, the use of electronic cigarettes, or vaping, has surged in popularity among young adults and even teenagers. However, alongside this trend has emerged a concerning health issue: EVALI, or e-cigarette or vaping product use-associated lung injury. EVALI has raised alarm bells in the medical community, prompting investigations into its causes, risk factors, and potential treatments.

An ever-present problem

Although the EVALI epidemic of 2019 and 2020 have receded from public memory and the COVID pandemic sits at the forefront of everyone’s mind, EVALI and vaping-related injuries remain a significant and ongoing medical concern. 

Vaping and lung health

Vaping exposes the lungs to harmful chemicals, and the additives or contaminants in vaping products can lead to inflammation and injury. EVALI can be linked to vaping, both with and without cannabis. While the exact cause remains elusive, studies suggest that vaping products, especially those containing THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound in cannabis, or vitamin E acetate, a thickening agent found in some e-cigarettes, may play a significant role in triggering this condition. 

Diagnosing EVALI can be challenging. The symptoms, including coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, fever, and gastrointestinal symptoms, can mimic other respiratory illnesses. 

Further complicating an EVALU diagnosis is the fact that many teenagers are reluctant to admit vaping usage. 

During the height of the EVALI epidemic in 2019 and 2020, symptoms that overlapped with other illnesses saw many patients initially diagnosed with pneumonia or an episode of gastroenteritis. In these cases, EVALI finally got identified after the condition worsened, and chest x-rays and CT scans indicated extensive lung disease.

The treatment of EVALI primarily involves supportive care, including hospitalization, oxygen therapy, corticosteroid therapy, and other therapeutic means to reduce lung inflammation. Of course, the most crucial aspect of treatment is discontinuing vaping and ensuring that patients receive appropriate medical care. With that said, individuals dealing with EVALI will likely wrestle with lung injuries for years and years.

Awareness and prevention

Preventing EVALI is essential, and avoiding vaping altogether is the best way to do so. This statement is particularly critical for young people and those with preexisting lung conditions who may be more vulnerable to EVALI's effects. At the office of North Jersey Pulmonary Associates, we emphasize awareness of vaping risks, early diagnosis, and timely treatment to help prevent and mitigate the impact of this condition.