It’s no secret that vaping isn’t exactly good for us, but what actually happens when we ingest the chemicals has been brought to life in a terrifying simulation.
The consequences of long-term vaping to our health are yet to be discovered, according to the NHS, yet the world is gripped with vaping horror stories.
Take for instance one man who was given a one percent chance of survival after becoming addicted to vaping – or the fact a 17-year-old had to have a tough surgery to remove part of her lung after vaping the equivalent of 400 cigarettes per week.
Although the science is currently lagging behind on what is essentially a relatively new phenomenon, we do know vaping can be highly addictive, due to the nicotine involved.
The NHS says: “Research on vaping related harm is rapidly developing. Current evidence suggests vapes are less harmful than smoking tobacco products, but they aren’t risk free.
“Most vapes contain nicotine, which is highly addictive. They also often contain other ingredients like propylene glycol, glycerine and flavourings.”
Now, a new YouTube video has revealed exactly what happens when the chemicals from a vape enter the body, and it makes for a bit of an uncomfortable watch.
The educational video, created by The Infographics Show, shows how chemicals target the lungs and create a build-up on the mucus on the alveoli – which we need for oxygen.
The simulation explains the chemicals have a ‘paralytic effect’ on the lungs and the cilia, which takes weeks to recover from.
Once the cilia is damaged, medics say the body could be susceptible to more infections and illnesses.
Experts say a major concern for vaping products is due to its various flavors and styles, attracting the eyes of teenagers and under 18s.
A scientific study in 2023 found that 4.6 percent of middle school students (age 11-14) and 10 percent of high school students (age 14-18) have said they have used e-cigarettes or vapes, according to the CDC.
In the US, this equates to almost 2.13 million students.
While studies on the detrimental effects on long-term vaping are still in its infancy, some research is beginning to acknowledge the damage.
A recent study published online in The Journal of Nuclear Medicine observed participants who were e-cig users and non-smokers to compare lung inflammation.
It was found that e-cigarettes were associated with lung inflammation and inflammatory lung disease, which, according to Very Well Health, can cause wheezing, breathing problems, and chest pain and tightness.