Skip to content 
Pleurisy is a condition characterized by inflammation of the pleura, the lining of the lungs. It can cause chest pain, difficulty breathing, and other respiratory symptoms. With the rise in popularity of electronic cigarettes, or vaping, there have been concerns about the potential health risks associated with this practice, including the question of whether vaping can cause pleurisy.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been tracking cases of severe lung problems in individuals who vape, and in August 2019, they identified a specific condition known as e-cigarette or vaping product use-associated lung injury (EVALI). Thousands of people have been affected by EVALI, with many requiring hospitalization and several deaths reported. While researchers are still working to fully understand EVALI, there is evidence linking it to vaping.
The exact cause of EVALI is not yet known, but there have been indications of an inflammatory response in the lungs, potentially resulting from the inhalation of aerosol from vaping. Symptoms of EVALI can include fever, chills, cough, difficulty breathing, chest tightness, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. It is important to note that EVALI can affect individuals of any age, even those who were previously healthy.
One potential risk factor for EVALI is the use of vaping products that contain vitamin E acetate. Vitamin E acetate is commonly used to thicken liquids in e-cigarettes, particularly those that contain THC, the psychoactive component of marijuana. While many individuals affected by EVALI reported using THC-containing vaping products, there have also been cases of individuals exclusively vaping nicotine who developed the condition. This suggests that vaping nicotine alone may not be safe, and more research is needed to fully understand the risks.
Key Takeaways
- Vaping has been linked to severe lung problems, including EVALI.
- Symptoms of EVALI include fever, cough, difficulty breathing, and chest tightness.
- Vaping products containing vitamin E acetate may increase the risk of EVALI.
- More research is needed to fully understand the risks of vaping.
The Link Between Vaping and EVALI
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been tracking cases of severe lung problems in individuals who vape, and in August 2019, they identified a specific condition known as e-cigarette or vaping product use-associated lung injury (EVALI). This condition is characterized by symptoms such as cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, and fever. While the exact cause of EVALI is still unknown, there is evidence linking it to vaping.
According to the CDC, as of February 2020, there have been 2,807 confirmed cases of EVALI reported across all 50 states, with 68 deaths. Individuals affected by EVALI have reported using a variety of vaping products, including those containing nicotine, THC, and both.
The symptoms of EVALI can range from mild to severe, and in some cases, hospitalization may be required. Treatment options typically involve corticosteroids to reduce inflammation in the lungs, and in severe cases, mechanical ventilation may be necessary.
The Link Between Vaping and EVALI
While researchers are still working to determine the exact cause of EVALI, there is evidence linking it to the inhalation of aerosol from vaping products. Vitamin E acetate, a chemical commonly used to thicken liquids in e-cigarettes, has also been identified as a potential risk factor for EVALI. The CDC has recommended that individuals avoid the use of vaping products that contain THC, particularly those obtained from informal sources such as friends or online dealers. It is also important to note that even nicotine-containing vaping products may not be safe, and more research is needed to fully understand the risks.
If you experience symptoms of EVALI, such as fever, cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, or abdominal pain, seek medical attention promptly. A thorough examination, including chest X-rays or CT scans, may be conducted to assess lung damage.
In conclusion, while the exact cause of EVALI is still unknown, there is evidence linking it to vaping, and it is important to prioritize lung health and be aware of the potential risks associated with this practice.
Understanding EVALI and Its Symptoms
The exact cause of EVALI is not yet known, but there have been indications of an inflammatory response in the lungs, potentially resulting from the inhalation of aerosol from vaping. This condition can cause chest pain, difficulty breathing, and other respiratory symptoms, including pleurisy. EVALI is a serious illness that can lead to hospitalization and even death.
Symptoms of EVALI can include fever, chills, cough, difficulty breathing, chest tightness, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. It is important to note that EVALI can affect individuals of any age, even those who were previously healthy. Diagnosis of EVALI may involve chest X-rays or CT scans to assess lung damage. Treatment options for EVALI often involve corticosteroids to reduce inflammation in the lungs, and in severe cases, mechanical ventilation may be necessary.
One potential risk factor for EVALI is the use of vaping products that contain vitamin E acetate. Vitamin E acetate is commonly used to thicken liquids in e-cigarettes, particularly those that contain THC, the psychoactive component of marijuana. While many individuals affected by EVALI reported using THC-containing vaping products, there have also been cases of individuals exclusively vaping nicotine who developed the condition. This suggests that vaping nicotine alone may not be safe, and more research is needed to fully understand the risks.
Other Lung Diseases Associated with Vaping
In addition to EVALI, there are other lung diseases associated with vaping that can potentially lead to pleurisy. “Popcorn lung,” also known as bronchiolitis obliterans, is a condition caused by inhaling diacetyl, a chemical commonly used to enhance flavors in e-liquids. Diacetyl can cause inflammation and scarring in the small airways of the lungs, leading to symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, chest pain, and shortness of breath.
Vaping-related lipoid pneumonia is another lung disease that can lead to pleurisy. Lipoid pneumonia occurs when oily substances found in e-liquids enter the lungs and trigger an inflammatory response. Symptoms of lipoid pneumonia can include chronic cough, shortness of breath, and coughing up blood or blood-tinged mucus. Treatment for lipoid pneumonia mainly involves supportive care as the lungs heal on their own.
Furthermore, vaping has been associated with an increased risk of primary spontaneous pneumothorax, also known as a collapsed lung. This condition can occur when there is a hole in the lung through which air escapes, leading to lung collapse. Vaping can increase the risk of bursting air blisters on the lungs, particularly in tall, thin individuals who experienced rapid growth during adolescence. Symptoms of a collapsed lung can include sharp chest or shoulder pain, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing. Treatment options range from oxygen therapy and rest to more invasive procedures such as chest tube placement or surgery.
While there is still much to learn about the long-term effects of vaping on lung health, it is clear that vaping can lead to various lung diseases, including those that can cause pleurisy. The chemicals present in e-liquids, such as vitamin E acetate, diacetyl, formaldehyde, and acrolein, can potentially damage the lungs and trigger inflammatory responses.
In conclusion, vaping has been associated with multiple lung diseases, including EVALI, “popcorn lung,” vaping-related lipoid pneumonia, and an increased risk of primary spontaneous pneumothorax. These conditions can lead to pleurisy, characterized by inflammation of the pleura and associated symptoms, such as chest pain and difficulty breathing. It is important to prioritize lung health and seek medical attention if experiencing any symptoms related to vaping. Quitting vaping altogether is the best way to reduce the risks associated with this practice.
Can vaping cause pleurisy? There is evidence linking vaping to severe lung problems, including pleurisy. It is important to understand the potential risks associated with vaping and prioritize lung health to avoid any long-term consequences.
Conclusion
While there is still much to learn about the long-term effects of vaping on lung health, it is clear that vaping can lead to various lung diseases, including those that can cause pleurisy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has identified EVALI as a severe lung problem associated with vaping, potentially resulting from the inhalation of aerosol from vaping.
Symptoms of EVALI range from respiratory symptoms such as fever, cough, and difficulty breathing to gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is crucial to seek medical attention promptly if experiencing symptoms of EVALI or any other lung diseases associated with vaping.
Quitting vaping altogether is the best way to avoid the risk of developing lung diseases associated with vaping. While more research is needed to fully understand the risks, it is important to prioritize lung health and seek medical attention if experiencing any symptoms related to vaping.
Remember, vaping can lead to various lung diseases, including those that can cause pleurisy. This emphasizes the importance of being mindful of the potential risks associated with vaping and taking steps to protect your lung health.
FAQ
Q: Can vaping cause pleurisy?
A: There is evidence linking vaping to various lung diseases, including those that can cause pleurisy. The chemicals present in e-liquids can potentially damage the lungs and trigger inflammatory responses.
Q: What is EVALI?
A: EVALI stands for e-cigarette or vaping product use-associated lung injury. It is a condition characterized by severe lung problems in individuals who vape. Symptoms can include fever, cough, difficulty breathing, and chest tightness.
Q: What are the symptoms of EVALI?
A: Symptoms of EVALI can include fever, chills, cough, difficulty breathing, chest tightness, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. It is important to seek medical attention if experiencing any of these symptoms.
Q: What are the risk factors for EVALI?
A: One potential risk factor for EVALI is the use of vaping products that contain vitamin E acetate. However, there have also been cases of individuals exclusively vaping nicotine who developed the condition, suggesting that vaping nicotine alone may not be safe.
Q: What is “popcorn lung”?
A: “Popcorn lung,” or bronchiolitis obliterans, is a lung condition caused by inhaling diacetyl, a chemical commonly used to enhance flavors in e-liquids. It can cause inflammation and scarring in the small airways of the lungs.
Q: What is vaping-related lipoid pneumonia?
A: Vaping-related lipoid pneumonia occurs when oily substances found in e-liquids enter the lungs and trigger an inflammatory response. Symptoms can include chronic cough, shortness of breath, and coughing up blood or blood-tinged mucus.
Q: Can vaping increase the risk of a collapsed lung?
A: Vaping has been associated with an increased risk of primary spontaneous pneumothorax, or a collapsed lung. This condition can occur when there is a hole in the lung through which air escapes, leading to lung collapse.
