Most people are aware that vaping isn’t exactly a healthy habit, but seeing what actually happens inside the body when these chemicals are inhaled is another story. A recently released simulation has brought this reality to life in a truly alarming way.According to the NHS, the long-term effects of vaping on our health are still largely unknown. However, countless real-life cases have fueled concerns, with vaping-related health scares making headlines worldwide.
For example, one man was left clinging to life with just a one percent survival chance after developing a severe vaping addiction. In another shocking case, a 17-year-old girl had to undergo major surgery to remove part of her lung after vaping the equivalent of 400 cigarettes in a single week.
Vaping isn’t exactly good for us but research is in its infancyMichael M. Santiago/Getty Images
Despite the fact that vaping is a relatively new trend, and scientific research is still catching up, one thing we do know is that nicotine plays a significant role in its addictive nature.The NHS states: “Research on vaping related harm is rapidly developing. Current evidence suggests vapes are less harmful than smoking tobacco products, but they aren’t risk free.”
“Most vapes contain nicotine, which is highly addictive. They also often contain other ingredients like propylene glycol, glycerine and flavourings.”
A new video on YouTube has taken things a step further by illustrating exactly what happens when the chemicals from a vape enter the body—and the results are unsettling.Produced by The Infographics Show, the educational video demonstrates how these chemicals directly impact the lungs, leading to a buildup of mucus on the alveoli—tiny air sacs that are essential for absorbing oxygen.
According to the simulation, these chemicals have a ‘paralytic effect’ on the lungs and cilia, small hair-like structures that help clear the airways. This damage takes weeks to heal, leaving the lungs vulnerable in the meantime.
The simulation shows what happens to the lungs when vapingYouTube/The Infographics Show
When the cilia are damaged, medical professionals warn that the body becomes more prone to infections and respiratory illnesses.Another growing concern is how vaping products, with their colorful flavors and trendy designs, are particularly appealing to young people, including teenagers and even pre-teens.
A 2023 scientific study revealed that 4.6 percent of middle school students (ages 11-14) and 10 percent of high school students (ages 14-18) reported using e-cigarettes or vapes, as per data from the CDC.
While long-term research on the harmful effects of vaping is still in its early stages, some studies are beginning to reveal troubling findings.One such study, published in The Journal of Nuclear Medicine, compared lung inflammation between e-cigarette users and non-smokers.
The results provided further insight into vaping’s potential risks.
The study found that vaping was linked to lung inflammation and inflammatory lung disease.
According to Very Well Health, this condition can cause symptoms such as wheezing, difficulty breathing, chest pain, and tightness.
