What are the immediately noticeable or relatively short-term health effects (within hours, days, weeks, or a few months of starting or regularly vaping) associated with vaping nicotine or non-nicotine e-liquids, excluding long-term effects like cancer or COPD that might only be apparent years later? I’m interested in effects on the respiratory system (coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath), cardiovascular system (increased heart rate, blood pressure), neurological system (headaches, dizziness, anxiety), gastrointestinal system (nausea, vomiting), and oral health (dry mouth, gum irritation). Also, could you specify how these effects might differ based on factors like the type of e-liquid (nicotine strength, flavorings), the type of device used, and the user’s pre-existing health conditions?

Answer

The short-term health effects of vaping can include:

• Respiratory Issues:

  • Coughing: Frequent or persistent coughing.
  • Wheezing: A whistling sound during breathing, indicating airway narrowing.
  • Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing or feeling like you can’t get enough air.
  • Exacerbation of Asthma: Worsening of existing asthma symptoms.
  • Popcorn Lung (Bronchiolitis Obliterans): Although more commonly associated with long-term vaping, some evidence suggests potential for acute onset, characterized by scarring of the small airways in the lungs. Diacetyl, a flavoring chemical, has been linked to this condition.
  • Increased Risk of Respiratory Infections: Vaping may weaken the immune system’s defenses in the lungs, potentially increasing susceptibility to infections.

• Cardiovascular Effects:

  • Increased Heart Rate: Nicotine in e-cigarettes can elevate heart rate.
  • Increased Blood Pressure: Nicotine can also cause a temporary increase in blood pressure.
  • Arterial Stiffness: Some studies indicate vaping may contribute to short-term stiffening of arteries.

• Neurological Effects:

  • Nicotine Addiction: Nicotine is highly addictive, and vaping can lead to rapid nicotine dependence.
  • Anxiety and Depression: Nicotine can worsen symptoms of anxiety and depression in some individuals, as well as cause mood swings.
  • Headaches and Dizziness: These can be side effects of nicotine or other chemicals in e-liquids.
  • Impaired Attention and Concentration: Nicotine can affect cognitive function, particularly in adolescents and young adults whose brains are still developing.

• Gastrointestinal Issues:

  • Nausea and Vomiting: Especially common in new users.
  • Diarrhea: Some individuals may experience gastrointestinal upset.
  • Abdominal Pain: Vaping may cause discomfort in the stomach area.

• Eye and Throat Irritation:

  • Dry Eyes: Vaping can reduce tear production, leading to dryness and irritation.
  • Sore Throat: Irritation of the throat lining.
  • Mouth Sores: Chemicals in e-cigarette vapor can irritate the oral mucosa.

• Skin Irritation:

  • Allergic Reactions: Some people may have allergic reactions to components of e-liquids, leading to skin rashes or itching.
  • Contact Dermatitis: Direct contact with e-cigarette devices or e-liquids can cause skin irritation.

• EVALI (E-cigarette or Vaping product use-Associated Lung Injury): While sometimes considered a longer-term effect, EVALI can present acutely. Symptoms include:

  • Respiratory symptoms: Cough, shortness of breath, chest pain.
  • Gastrointestinal symptoms: Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea.
  • Constitutional symptoms: Fever, chills, weight loss.
  • Hypoxia: Low oxygen levels in the blood.

• Nicotine Poisoning:

  • Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, increased heart rate, seizures, and respiratory failure. This is particularly a risk if e-liquids are ingested or if large amounts of nicotine are absorbed through the skin.

• Impaired Wound Healing:

  • Nicotine constricts blood vessels, potentially slowing down the healing process after injuries or surgery.

• Impact on Immune Function:

  • Vaping can suppress the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections. It can affect the function of immune cells in the lungs and other parts of the body.

• Altered Taste and Smell:

  • Vaping can affect the senses of taste and smell, either temporarily or in the long term.
• Secondhand Exposure:
  • Exposure to secondhand e-cigarette aerosol can cause respiratory irritation and other health problems in bystanders, especially children.