It is often a challenge to fully grasp the impact of someone’s actions when the consequences are neither visible or immediate. While that person is aware of the detrimental effects, he or she continues to act ignorant by proceeding to indulge in a habit deemed destructive. A habit that could be the difference between health and illness. Vaping serves as a prime example of such bad habits — a vice that is easy to pick up and a battle to put down.
Vaping has become a widespread epidemic, especially among Generation Z. Its popularity can be credited to the enticing propaganda that sugarcoats the long-term side effects to a person’s health, both mental and physical. Although many claim that vaping is the safer alternative to smoking, the nicotine inside of this accessible device is equally addictive and still harmful.
This seemingly mild addiction can pose a threat to brain development, damaging crucial regions of the cerebrum in charge of controlling one’s mood, attention span, instinct and learning abilities. The plethora of delightful flavors allure users while simultaneously distracting them from the fact of the matter: the chemicals in these devices are connected to a multitude of health problems waiting to happen.
The list of toxic metals and chemicals found in e-cigarettes by researchers, followed by a description of each ingredient, should leave an addict traumatized and act as a wake-up call. Chemicals such as propylene glycol, acrolein, diethylene glycol and benzene — compounds ranging from food additives and paint solvents to ingredients in antifreeze, artificial smoke and car exhaust — are all present in this portable vice. A few of these substances are even utilized as herbicides, underscoring the gravity of their toxicity.
Additional chemicals such as acetaldehyde, formaldehyde, diacetyl and cadmium are known for causing severe respiratory problems such as bronchiolitis, while also inducing a significant risk of developing cancer in the lungs, throat, mouth or even bladder. From occasional indulgers to habitual users, ingesting this form of nicotine is accompanied by a multitude of risks.
The real danger commences when the act of vaping is treated with the same casual necessity as drinking water — when it emerges from a desire into a perceived requirement for the body to feel whole and fully functional, because eventually, it will seem impossible and pointless to quit.
While adopting this bad habit can occur in one puff, the journey to break free from it can take anywhere from 18-254 days, which will likely be plagued by the relentless rollercoasters of withdrawals. The symptoms include intolerable mood swings, constant frustration, along with the overwhelming presence of anxiety and depression. Consequently, unhealthy eating patterns may form due to a heightened appetite. An exhausting sleep schedule may develop due to insomnia-like symptoms and academic performance may suffer due to impaired focus and lack of concentration. However, for those who make it through the physical and physiological tribulations, the ultimate outcome proves undoubtedly worthwhile.
Taking all of these factors into consideration, one might find it more prudent and less harmful to undertake a more benign — although still unhealthy— habit such as nail-biting, rather than put one’s health on the line by vaping. While no vice exists without its disadvantages, the decision to refrain from vaping could ultimately safeguard one’s future. Avoid surrendering to this tiny gadget that can have huge negative consequences.
