While Vaping:

It is a well known fact that vaping is bad for you, but have you ever wondered why? The three main risks of nicotine and vaping are nicotine addiction, mood disorders, and a permanent lowering of impulse. Among high-schoolers in the United States, 10% use e-cigarettes or vape. Don’t become part of a statistic!

Addiction of nicotine during adolescence, while the brain is still growing, can affect brain development in the long run and one will never reach their full potential. Diacetyl is the chemical flavoring added to a vape, which you are inhaling into your lungs when you vape. This chemical is very bad for your lungs and causes inflammation, which can lead to permanent scarring within your lungs. This is where the phrase “popcorn lung” comes from, which has no lasting treatment and can never be cured.

Because vaping effects brain development, especially as a teenager, this could effect how you feel as well. Teenagers who vape have worsening symptoms of depression and anxiety, and have higher odds of being diagnosed with depression.

Quitting Nicotine:

Right after quitting nicotine, you will begin to have anxiety, are easily irritable, trouble focusing, tiredness, feelings of hunger, and and an intense craving for nicotine. Withdrawal symptoms will feel different for everyone, but you can get through it no matter what. Remember to stay hydrated, get a lot of sleep, and be prepared for cravings!

Once you get past these first stage symptoms though, your lungs will feel better, your thoughts and feelings will be clearer, and you won’t consistently crave nicotine all the time. It is so worth it, don’t put your life on the line just because of this addiction that you can overcome.