Is this new lung disease also affecting you who vape? Let's learn exactly about EVALI!

Nowadays, 'vaping', that is, smoking with a device like an electronic cigarette, has become very popular among young people, hasn't it? Some people think that this is safer than regular cigarettes. But did you know that doctors are now talking about a new, dangerous lung disease caused by this `(vaping)`? This is called ` EVALI `. Let's talk about this in more detail, simply and simply.

What is `EVALI`?

Simply put, `EVALI` is an acronym for 'E-cigarette, or vaping, product use-associated lung injury' . In Sinhala, this means lung injury associated with the use of electronic cigarettes or vaping products . This is when your lungs become severely inflamed, meaning they become swollen and injured .

The small electronic device you use to ``vape'' (``e-cigarette'') inhales a liquid solution of ``nicotine'' and a flavoring. The tiny particles in this solution are the primary cause of this lung disease. Sometimes, even someone who ``vaped'' up to 90 days before the onset of symptoms can develop this ``EVALI'' condition.

This condition, called `EVALI`, can come on suddenly (we call it `acute`), or it can come on gradually, with symptoms increasing over time (`subacute`). In some severe cases, it can be fatal .

How serious is `EVALI`?

This is a very serious situation . As reported in the US, 90% of people who develop `EVALI` have had to be hospitalized. By early 2020, there were nearly 3,000 hospitalizations and 70 deaths due to this `EVALI`. So imagine how serious this can be.

Is this a long-term problem?

EVALI is a relatively new condition. The first case of this disease in the United States was reported in 2019. Therefore, doctors and researchers are still not sure what the long-term effects are, or how it will develop in the future. That is, we do not yet know what problems will arise in the future.

What are the symptoms of `EVALI`?

Now let's see what symptoms can occur when this `EVALI` develops. If you have one or more of these, especially if you are a `(vape)` person, it is important to definitely seek medical advice.

• Chest pain . It can feel like it's being squeezed or squeezed.
• Cough . It can be a dry cough or a cough with mucus.
• Difficulty breathing(`(dyspnea)`). You may feel short of breath, not only when you are slightly tired, but also when you are just standing still.
• Rapid heartbeat ( tachycardia ). A feeling of your chest beating faster.
• Stomach pain .
• Nausea and vomiting .
• Bloating ( diarrhea ).
• Fever .
• Feeling cold (like a cold).
• Unexplained weight loss . If you're losing weight without dieting or exercising, it's a significant sign.

Remember, in some severe cases, EVALI can even lead to death . So don't ignore these symptoms.

What are the causes of `EVALI`?

The main cause is the use of electronic cigarettes (`(e-cigarettes)`) and `(vaping)` . However, medical experts still do not have a clear idea about which chemicals in these `(e-liquids)` (i.e. `(vape juice)`) exactly cause this inflammation in the lungs.

However, there is a suspicion that there may be a link between `EVALI` and a chemical called `(Vitamin E acetate)` . This vitamin E acetate is a synthetic form of vitamin E. Some manufacturers add it to `(e-liquids)` containing `(THC)` (tetrahydrocannabinol - this is the main chemical that causes intoxication in cannabis). Although vitamin E acetate is safe to eat or use as a skin cream, it is thought that it can cause lung damage when heated and inhaled as a vapor .

Can the condition `EVALI` be cured?

This is something doctors still can't say for sure. However, with new information coming in, it seems that if you stop vaping completely and seek medical attention quickly, you can reverse some of the damage caused by EVALI . That means acting quickly is very important.

Who is most affected by `EVALI`?

Anyone who vapes can develop EVALI. However, some people are at higher risk of developing the condition, requiring hospitalization. These include:

• People under the age of 35. This is especially seen among young people.
• People who ``vape'' things containing (THC) .
• By informal means, that isPeople who buy and use `(vape)` liquid containing `(THC)` from places like online or from a friend. We don't know what harmful substances are in this.

How is `EVALI` diagnosed?

Diagnosing EVALI can be challenging because its symptoms are similar to those of many other lung diseases, such as asthma and pneumonia. A doctor will review your complete medical history and perform a physical exam . During this exam, your lungs will be listened to (auscultation) with a stethoscope. They may also ask you questions such as:

• What are your symptoms?
• Do you `(vape)`?
• Have you vaped in the past three months?
• Do you `(vape)` for `(nicotine)`, `(THC)`, or both?
• Where did you get the `(e-liquid)` you put in your `(vape)`? (A pharmacy, a friend, online?)

It is very important to provide accurate information to these questions, as this will help the doctor to accurately diagnose the disease. In addition, further tests may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.

What tests are used to diagnose `EVALI`?

A doctor may order the following tests to confirm EVALI status:

• Blood oxygen level test : This measures how much oxygen is in your blood. Low oxygen levels can mean that your lungs are damaged. This can be done by taking a blood sample or by using a device called ``pulse oximetry'', which is a small clip that you put on your finger.
• Imaging tests: These are simple, painless tests that can look for damage to the lungs. A chest X-ray or CT scan may be done.
• Pulmonary function tests (PFTs): These tests check how well your lungs are working. They measure things like how deeply you can breathe in and how fast you can breathe out.

How is `EVALI` treated?

Because the symptoms of EVALI are similar to those of lung infections, a doctor may first prescribe antibiotics or antivirals to rule out an infection. In addition, your treatment may include:

• Corticosteroids: These are medications that are given to reduce inflammation (swelling) in the lungs. They may be given as an inhaler or as a vapor that you breathe in through a nebulizer.
• Oxygen therapy: This involves giving extra oxygen. This oxygen is given through a small plastic tube (nasal cannula) that is placed in each nostril. This tube is connected to an oxygen tank.
• Mechanical ventilation: This is what we call a 'ventilator'. This machine helps you breathe for you, either completely or partially. This may be necessary if your EVALI condition becomes very severe .

How soon will I feel better after starting treatment?

Most people start to feel relief within a few days of starting treatment with `EVALI`. However, it may take a while before you can return to your normal activities after treatment. Your doctor will tell you exactly how long it will take.

If I have `EVALI`, what should I expect?

Because EVALI is a new condition, doctors don't yet know much about its long-term effects. Some people may have symptoms again after treatment ends. Therefore, it is important to keep up with your doctor (`(follow-up appointments)`). Your doctor may also refer you to a lung specialist (`(pulmonologist)`). These `(pulmonologists)` are specialists who diagnose and treat diseases of the lungs and respiratory system.

Can `EVALI` be prevented?

Yes, it definitely is possible! The best way to prevent EVALI is to avoid using vaping products altogether . Especially avoid products that contain THC or Vitamin E acetate. If you do vape, make sure to only buy vaping products from a licensed vendor . Don't use any products that you find on the street, and don't know who made them or what's inside.

If I have `EVALI`, how should I take care of myself?

If a doctor tells you that you have `EVALI`, he or she will create a treatment plan that is right for you. It is very important to take all the medications your doctor prescribes exactly and on time .

Your doctor can also help you quit vaping . Many of the same tips for quitting smoking can also be used to quit vaping. Ask your doctor about programs that can help you do this.

When should I see a doctor?

If you are a vaper and have symptoms of EVALI (the chest pain, shortness of breath, and cough we talked about earlier), see a doctor right away . If your symptoms return after treatment, tell your doctor right away. Keep going for follow-up appointments to see how your lungs are working and your blood oxygen levels.

When should I go to an emergency room (ER)?

If you feel very short of breath or your chest is tight, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately, or go to the nearest hospital emergency room.This is not a good thing to delay.

What questions should I ask a doctor?

When you go to see a doctor, it's a good idea to ask questions like these:

• How do you know for sure that I have `EVALI`?
• Have my lungs been permanently damaged?
• How soon will I start feeling better?
• What do I do if my symptoms come back?
• How often do I need to come for follow-up appointments?
• Can you recommend a program or support group to help me quit vaping?

How do I know if vaping is affecting my lungs?

If you are a `(vape)` user and have respiratory symptoms (such as cough, wheezing, chest pain), your lungs may be damaged. Also, if you have other lung conditions, such as `(asthma)`, `(vaping)` may make those symptoms worse.

How long does it take for vaping to affect the lungs?

Some studies suggest that vaping can start to damage your lungs within as little as three days . That means, even if you think, "I'm just doing it a little, occasionally," even that little bit can be dangerous.

Finally, what to remember (Take-Home Message)

EVALI is a serious condition that causes inflammation of your lung tissue. If you are a vaper - even if you do it infrequently - and develop symptoms of EVALI, you should see a doctor or go to the emergency room . With treatment, most people start to feel better within a few days.

The most important thing is, if you don't vape, it's best not to start. If you already vape, there are doctors and other healthcare providers who can help you quit. Don't hesitate to get their help. Your lungs are worth it, right?