8 Vaping Facts You Need to Know Before Starting or Quitting

Vaping has quickly become a popular alternative to smoking. Especially among younger generations.

But what do we really know about it? Is it more or less addictive than traditional smoking? Is it a proven smoking cessation tool?

With debates around its health risks, benefits, and social trends. Understanding the facts about vaping is more important than ever. At Fresh Point, we aim to keep our community informed about decisions affecting their health. 

So, if you want to know the side effects of vaping before deciding to start or quit it. Or need some reliable information about E-cigarettes. This post will help clear the air.

Essential Information about Vaping & E-Cigarettes | 8 Facts

1. Vaping is Less Harmful than Traditional Cigarettes But Not Safe

While vaping isn’t completely safe, research indicates it’s less harmful than smoking. Traditional cigarettes contain thousands of harmful chemicals. Many of which are known carcinogens.

On the other hand, vaping does not prove to contain any carcinogen. But the discussions and researches are still going around the topic

Other harmful chemicals in cigarette smoke. Including tar and carbon monoxide are also not contained in vape aerosol. So, vaping reduces exposure to these toxic substances. But, it’s not risk-free.

That said, harm reduction is one reason many people turn to e-cigarettes or vaping.

2. Vapes are More Affordable than Traditional Cigarettes

For regular smokers, the cost is a significant factor. And it is another reason why smokers are shifting from traditional cigarettes to vaping devices.

Vaping devices have a high upfront cost. But their long-term use is cheaper. Because e-liquid refills and maintenance cost less than buying cigarette packs daily.

For an average smoker:

3. New generations prefer vaping over traditional cigarettes

Vaping has seen a meteoric rise in popularity, especially among younger adults.

According to Australia’s National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC). E-cigarette use has increased in Australia since 2016. And major ratio of E-smokers consists of teenagers.

The main reasons for this trend are:

• Young people view it as a trendier option
• Flashy marketing on social media is more appealing to teens
• Its less damage in comparison to traditional cigarettes is seen as “no harm”
• A variety of flavours cater to the youth more
• Pen-like designs make vaping discrete & teens can hide them easily
• Less cost makes it easily accessible to all the social classes

The increasing trends call for the need for proper regulation and balance over selling of vaping devices.

4. It Is Illegal Selling Vapes To <18 Years

Vaping has most of its customers in the form of teenage population. But the law suggests otherwise.

In Australia, it is strictly illegal to sell vaping devices to individuals under 18 years of age. This rule applies to vapes shops, tobacconists, convenience stores and service stations. In short, for everyone involved in the business of E-cigarettes.

So, any of the retailers trying to sell vaping devices to <18-year-olds are subjected to a crime. And have to face legal penalties like fines or closing of their shops.

These regulations aim to protect young people from nicotine addiction. And potential health risks. You can also help the law if you know about such illegal handling. Just report the incident to relevant Government Authorities.

At Fresh Point, we support and comply with these laws to promote responsible choices.

5. Vaping Can be Used as a Smoking Cessation Tool, But Limited Research Support it

Many people turn to e-cigarette or vaping as a tool to quit smoking. Even some doctors also prescribe vaping as a tool to quit traditional smoking.

But evidence of its effectiveness is mixed. Some studies suggest that vaping can help reduce nicotine dependency. While others argue it may prolong the habit.

Though the numbers are small. Some evidence still proves the increased effect of vapes on smoking cessation. As compared to other nicotine replacement therapies. E.g. patches or gum.

The main reason in support of this fact is: Mostly people find hand-to-mouth action like smoking. And throat hit action is also the same.

But, if you’re considering using vaping to quit. It’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional. And strictly follow the suggested medical guidelines.

6. Vaping can Harm Your Lungs

Although vaping eliminates tar. A major culprit in cigarette-related lung diseases. It can still damage lung health.

But it still contains some harmful chemicals that can affect your lungs. Some of the serious results caused by nicotine vapes are:

• Respiratory airway irritation
• Coughing
• Shortness of breath 
• Vomiting and nausea
• Long-term breathing problems
• Lung damage

Research shows that aerosolised chemicals in vaping devices may cause:

• Inflammation
• Reduced lung function
• Lung injury

These chemicals are also present in the smoke scattered around. So, safety against second hand vaping is also necessary.

7. Vaping can Affect Your Brain and Mental Health

Nicotine is not just addictive. It’s also harmful to the brain, particularly in young users. It causes a number of problems to the brain, heart and whole body. Some of the possible harms include:

• Disrupted brain development
• Dependency
• Difficulty in concentration
• Memory problems
• Anxiety problems

The growing prevalence of vaping and e-cigarettes among Australian youth. Makes this an urgent public health issue.

8. Quitting Vape Require Medical Supervision

Not only during smoking but the quitting process also causes serious health risks.

Common nicotine withdrawal symptoms can last from a few days to several weeks. They can include;

• Nicotine cravings 
• Irritability and anger 
• Difficulty in concentration
• Appetite changes
• Flu like symptoms
• Dizziness and spinning heads
• Depression
• Insomnia

Experts recommend gradual reduction plans under medical supervision to modify their vaping habit. To avoid and manage the severe side effects. For some, combining nicotine replacement therapy with lifestyle changes works best.

So, if you are thinking about quitting. Don’t try to do it on your own. And consult a medical professional before deciding to quit smoking.

Conclusion

Vaping continues to spark conversations globally. That debate over the harm reduction and potential risks. The vaping trend is increasing day by day among youth and teenagers. But health risks and laws demand strict regulation of it.

Whether you’re a regular user or want to start vaping. Staying informed will help you in making better choices.

Weigh these points of information about vaping provided by Fresh Point.

And make informed decisions for your health and lifestyle.