Doctors warned that "popcorn lung" is a risk even after one vape.

      April 23, 2026 18:27 Society Vapes, which many considered a safe alternative to cigarettes, can lead to serious health problems. The disease caused by the use of electronic devices has been named EVALI or "popcorn lung." It is characterized by damage to the small airways, which can lead to scarring and narrowing of the bronchioles.

      How does "popcorn lung" manifest?

      The disease is diagnosed by pulmonologists based on the characteristic sound during breathing, reminiscent of the crackling of popping popcorn. Pulmonologist Vyacheslav Ovechkin warned in a conversation with 360.ru that even a single use of a vape can cause problems. A mild form of the disease may resolve after quitting smoking, but without treatment, the situation can worsen, requiring hospitalization and even connection to a mechanical ventilator (MV).

      Complications include pulmonary edema and acute respiratory syndrome, which complicates the intake of oxygen into the blood and causes oxygen deprivation. With timely medical assistance and quitting vaping, there is a chance for a full recovery.

      Symptoms of "popcorn lung"

      One of the first signs of the disease is shortness of breath. If a person could previously walk several hundred meters without difficulty, but now struggles to breathe, this may indicate lung damage. Non-specific symptoms such as dry mouth, mild cough, and gastrointestinal upset may also appear. However, these signs are often ignored.

      Why are vapes more dangerous than cigarettes?

      Psychiatrist-narcologist Marat Saraev describes the situation with vapes as catastrophic. Manufacturers claimed that electronic devices are harmless, but in reality, they cause a stronger addiction than regular cigarettes. Additionally, the nicotine content in vapes can be three times higher.

      Previously, vapes were allowed in places where smoking was prohibited, creating an illusion of safety. This particularly attracted teenagers who feared that their parents would notice the smell of tobacco. As a result, the number of vape enthusiasts among youth has significantly increased.

      Teenagers often buy devices designed for one and a half thousand puffs and use them over several weeks or months. However, the amount of nicotine consumed during this time is equivalent to three packs of regular cigarettes per day.

      Vapes are also dangerous because they are easier to use. There is no need to go outside or find a special place to smoke. This makes them more accessible and appealing to young people.

      Quitting vaping on your own is nearly impossible. Help from a narcologist is necessary to select appropriate treatment, emphasized Marat Saraev.

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