Although promoted as safer than the addiction of smoking, current research shows that vaping poses serious health risks, one of which happens to be the rare but devastating condition known as “popcorn lung.” Formally called bronchiolitis obliterans, this disease is characterized by irreversible scarring of the lungs and, finally, the whole respiratory system, which eventually leads to dyspnea, chronic cough, and, finally, respiratory failure.
What Is Popcorn Lung?
The term “popcorn lung” was first coined in the early 2000s when employees in a microwave popcorn plant experienced the disease associated with inhalation of diacetyl, the chemical ingredient that would flavor the butter for the product. Diacetyl induces inflammatory scarring of the tiny airways (bronchioles) of the lungs, obstructions to airflow, and permanent damage.
Although this chemical has been removed from most types of popcorn, it is still a concern in flavored e-cigarettes and vapes. Most vaping liquids, particularly dessert-flavored or fruit-flavored e-liquids, contain diacetyl or similar harmful chemicals.
How Is Vaping Linked With The Development Of Popcorn Lung?
When inhaling aerosolized e-liquids, vapers may consume toxic flavoring agents, such as diacetyl. The eventual possible effects of these chemicals are:
- Airway inflammation and narrowing.
- Scar formation.
- Diminishing lung function makes it difficult for one to breathe.
Popcorn lung symptoms consist of:
- Continuous dry cough
- Wheezing
- Even mild exertion leads to shortness of breath
- Lack of oxygen causes fatigue.
Unlike some lung diseases, the condition of popcorn lung does not improve with time and causes permanent damage.
Is vaping safer when compared to smoking?
While vaping does not involve the production of tar in the same way cigarettes do-it exposes the user to much worse dangers:
- Ultrafine particles that settle deep inside the lungs
- Heavy metals (for example-lead and nickel) emitted from coils used for vaping
- Formaldehyde carcinogen formed from the burning of e-liquids at high temperatures
Popcorn lung is only one of the many serious diseases that are attributed to vaping abuse-including EVALI (e-cigarette or vaping product use-associated lung injury), in which cases patients have been admitted to hospitals and have died because of the condition.
Protecting Your Lungs
The ultimate way to prevent any vaping diseases, including popcorn lung, is a complete cessation of vaping. For the nicotine addicts, quitting might require the use of FDA-approved cessation methods such as patches, gums, or prescription medications that are less harmful.
The Bottom Line
Vaping may appear innocent, but irreversible lung injury is a very real risk. Popcorn lung stands in utter contrast: what you inhale today might scar your lungs for life.
