There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding vaping, and if you’re still new they can all seem a little frightening.
Take popcorn lung, for example – is it really a thing caused by vaping, or is it just another horror story created by news outlets?
While popcorn lung is a serious illness, it’s not a widespread issue or a major cause for concern.
Need a little more convincing? Here’s everything you need to know about popcorn lung, and if vaping puts you at an increased risk.
What is popcorn lung?
Popcorn lung, also known as bronchitis obliterans, is an uncommon form of lung disease in which a build-up of scar tissue in the lungs blocks the flow of air.
The term might sound strange, but as with most things, there’s a deeper meaning behind it.
A group of popcorn factory workers developed the condition, which led to the name ‘popcorn lung’.
They had inhaled diacetyl, a flavouring that’s commonly used (but completely safe to consume) in the popcorn.
What causes it?
A possible link has been suggested between the disease and diacetyl, but more evidence is needed to find out if they’re actually connected.
According to Cancer Research UK, e-cigarettes don’t cause popcorn lung, and there have been no cases reported in people who use them.
Despite its name, bronchiolitis obliterans can be caused by several different things.
For instance, it can occur after an infection, if it damages the lungs or after breathing in chemicals that irritate the lungs and cause damage.
Is it curable?
Unfortunately, there is no cure (currently) for popcorn lung, but there are things you can do to alleviate symptoms, including:
- Cough suppressants
- Bronchodilators (medication to help open the airways)
- Oxygen supplementation
Patients living with the most severe cases may even be offered a lung transplant.
Does vaping cause popcorn lung?
Some e-liquids used to contain diacetyl, which led to speculation that vaping might cause popcorn lung.
Since then, diacetyl has been banned in e-liquids in the United Kingdom under the EU Tobacco Products Directive (TPD), so liquids sold in the UK shouldn’t contain this ingredient.
To reiterate the point mentioned earlier, there have been no confirmed cases of popcorn lung linked to e-cigarettes – so there’s nothing to worry about!
Purchase e-liquids from a reputable supplier
Vaping should be an enjoyable experience, not one in which you’re worried about the potential health impacts.
Research has shown that, although e-cigs and e-liquids aren’t completely risk-free, they’re much less harmful than conventional tobacco cigarettes.
Purchasing e-liquids from a reputable supplier – like Cloudstix – is another great way to put your mind at ease if you’re concerned about popcorn lung.
You can be confident that their e-juices are fully TPD compliant and that they meet every current health and safety legislation.
If you have any questions or would like more information on their products, be sure to get in touch with their experts.
They’d be more than happy to help!
