What would you do if you Swallowed Vape Smoke?
Swallowing vape smoke, or more accurately, the aerosol produced by e-cigarettes or vaping devices, is generally considered safe in small amounts. The aerosol is primarily composed of propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, flavorings, and sometimes nicotine. These ingredients are generally recognized as safe for oral consumption by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
However, consuming large quantities of vape smoke, especially in concentrated form, can potentially lead to some adverse effects such as nausea, stomach discomfort, headache, or dizziness. It is worth noting that the long-term effects of regular ingestion of vape smoke are not well-studied and remain uncertain.
It is important to mention that swallowing vape liquids or any vaping devices can be extremely dangerous, especially for young children or pets. If this occurs, seeking immediate medical attention is recommended.
Vaping as a Safer Alternative
Vaping is a better alternative to smoking in several ways, although it is not stated here that swallowing vape smoke is acceptable. One reason is that vape smoke is less harmful than cigarette smoke.
This can be attributed to the following factors:
1. Adjustable Nicotine Strength
Vapes use saturated nicotine, avoiding the combustion of harmful tobacco. Vapes utilize nic-salt with lower nicotine levels, which is contained in e-liquid. Additionally, the level of nicotine in vapes can be adjusted.
2. Vapour Production and Smoke Generation
Vaping produces vapor, while cigarettes generate smoke. Although both involve nicotine, there are distinct differences between the two. Vaping heats the e-liquid, while cigarette smoke results from burning tobacco and pure nicotine.
Hence, swallowing vape smoke differs greatly from swallowing cigarette smoke. Moreover, if you enjoy swallowing nicotine and are addicted to it, vaping provides the option to choose the nicotine level and offers a wide range of flavors in e-liquids and disposable vapes.
3. Similar Vaping Style
Vaping offers the option of using the Mouth to Lung (MTL) style, which involves taking the vapor into the mouth and then inhaling it into the lungs. This style is commonly used by smokers as well.
Considering the discussion about swallowing vape smoke, if you use vapes as a substitute for cigarettes, the sensation will be similar. However, the e-liquid plays a crucial role in this process.
Vape Smoke Composition
To comprehend its potential effects, it's crucial to comprehend the composition of vape smoke. Vape smoke, commonly referred to as vapor, is the aerosol produced by heating e-liquids within a vaping device. The key ingredients of e-liquids include propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), flavorings, and nicotine (optional).
IImmediate Effects of Swallowing Vape Smoke
When vape smoke is unintentionally swallowed, here's what might occur:
1. Mild Discomfort:
Swallowing vape smoke may cause initial mild discomfort, primarily due to irritation of the throat and esophagus. This discomfort typically subsides quickly, similar to accidentally inhaling water when drinking.
2. Nausea and Vomiting:
In some cases, swallowing vape smoke may trigger a temporary feeling of nausea. Vomiting might follow if the irritation persists or if someone has a sensitive stomach. This reaction is typically brief and doesn't necessitate emergency medical attention.
Long-term Effects of Swallowing Vape Smoke
Although rare, there could be potential long-term effects associated with swallowing vape smoke. These effects might be dependent on various factors such as the frequency, quantity, and duration of exposure. Some possibilities include:
1. Chemical Inhalation:
When vape smoke is ingested, the chemicals within it may be absorbed into the bloodstream via the digestive system. Research is limited, but it suggests that this could lead to potential health risks in the long run.
2. Gastrointestinal Disturbances:
Swallowing vape smoke might disrupt the normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, potentially causing issues like indigestion, bloating, or diarrhea. However, the severity of these effects is typically dependent on individual sensitivity.
3. Nicotine Toxicity:
If the e-liquid being vaped contains nicotine, swallowing vape smoke may result in nicotine poisoning. Symptoms of nicotine toxicity include dizziness, increased heart rate, headache, and in severe cases, seizures. It is worth noting that nicotine poisoning requires immediate medical attention.
Preventive Measures
While accidental ingestion of vape smoke is rare, it is always a good idea to take some preventative measures:
1. Be Mindful of Inhalation Technique:
Practicing proper inhalation techniques while vaping reduces the chances of accidentally swallowing vape smoke.
2. Store Vape Devices Properly:
Keep vape devices, especially e-liquids containing nicotine, out of the reach of children and pets.
3. Seek Medical Attention if Needed:
If you experience severe symptoms or suspect nicotine poisoning after swallowing vape smoke, don't hesitate to seek medical help.
Conclusion
While accidentally swallowing vape smoke is generally not a cause for concern, it might lead to short-term discomfort. Long-term effects are rare but cannot be entirely ruled out. It is essential to exercise caution and take preventive measures to minimize any potential risks associated with forgetting or accidentally swallowing vape smoke. As more research is conducted on this subject, we can hope for a clearer understanding of the possible consequences in the future.
