The rise of vaping was initially touted as a safer alternative to smoking, but recent years have shed light on its hidden dangers, particularly for the lungs. “Vaping Lung Injury,” officially known as EVALI (E-cigarette or Vaping Product Use-Associated Lung Injury), has alarmed health professionals and families alike. For moms keeping an eye on their loved ones, understanding the warning signs of vaping-related injuries and knowing when to seek emergency care could make all the difference.

What is EVALI?

EVALI is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition linked to vaping. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 2,800 hospitalizations and 68 deaths were reported at the height of the outbreak in 2019-2020. While safety regulations have improved, cases continue to surface, particularly among teenagers and young adults.

The condition is often tied to e-liquids containing vitamin E acetate, a harmful additive commonly found in unregulated THC vaping products. However, even nicotine-based vapes can cause lung damage, leading to coughing, chest pain, and severe shortness of breath.

Spotting the Symptoms: Is It Just a Cold or Something More?

Vaping-related lung injuries can mimic common illnesses, making it easy to dismiss symptoms. Here are the signs to watch for:

  • Severe shortness of breath
  • Persistent chest pain or tightness
  • Coughing that doesn’t improve
  • Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain
  • Extreme fatigue or fever

If these symptoms persist, especially after recent vaping use, it’s crucial to act fast. Don’t wait to see if things get better on their own, get to your local Surepoint Emergency Center for fast evaluation and treatment today!

As a parent, your instincts are invaluable. If your loved one’s symptoms worsen or they struggle to breathe, it’s time to visit Surepoint Emergency Center.

What You Can Do To Protect Your Family

Preventing vaping lung injuries starts with awareness. Talk openly with your loved ones about the risks of vaping, especially when it comes to unregulated products. Encourage alternatives to nicotine use and keep an open dialogue about peer pressure and stress management. School leaders across the nation have seen an unimaginable influx in vaping products brought into schools, even as young as 4th grade. Many parents are completely unaware their child is utilizing these vapes because these companies that target children have created many ways to conceal the identity of the product. Knowing what a Vape Pen looks like or could look like is necessary to stay vigilant in preventing your children from suffering these terrible injuries.

The CDC reports that one in five high school students vape, making it critical to stay informed. Education, support, and early intervention can save lives.

Burns

Vape burns can happen suddenly. For minor burns (those smaller than the size of a quarter), apply a cool compress (not ice). Then, each day, gently cleanse the area with mild soap and water and apply a layer of antibacterial (first aid) ointment and a clean, non-stick bandage. Seek medical care if you experience any of the following:

Signs of infection:

  • Fever
  • Increasing redness
  • Swelling
  • Pain
  • Yellowish or foul-smelling discharge from the burn

Severe Burns

If a burn has the following features, seek medical help right away:

  • The skin appears blackened, white or blistered
  • The burn affects the face, a hand, foot, elbow or knee, or genitals
  • The burned area is more than three inches across

If you’re with a person who’s been burned and waiting for help:

  • Make sure the person is breathing normally and conscious.
  • If you can do so without causing further injury, quickly remove jewelry, belts or restrictive clothing and elevate the burned area above heart level.
  • Cover the burned area with a clean, damp cloth — do not submerge it in water.

Don’t Second-Guess Serious Symptoms

When it comes to your family’s health, every second counts. If you’re ever unsure about your loved one’s symptoms, it’s better to err on the side of caution. Surepoint Emergency Centers are here to provide peace of mind and expert care when you need it most.

Your family’s health is our top priority. Let Surepoint Emergency Centers be there for you when it matters most.

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