At least 215 cases of severe lung disease associated with vaping have been reported. This has resulted in the both the FDA and CDC issuing releases warning consumers to “consider refraining” from vaping. The long term side effects are largely still unknown, but mounting evidence suggests vapers should be concerned.
According to the reports, many of the patients reported that their symptoms came on gradually. These individuals experienced a variety of symptoms including shortness of breath, chest pain, and difficulty breathing, and even nausea, vomiting, fever and fatigue.
The joint statement on August 30, 2019 from the CDC and FDA encourages those trying to stop smoking to “use evidence-based treatments, including counseling and FDA-approved medications.”
The CEO of JUUL, one of the country’s leading producers of e-cigarettes, has even weighed in on the reports. CEO Kevin Burns has said that the emerging reports are concerning and is urging people to not use the product. “Don’t start using nicotine if you don’t have a pre-existing relationship with nicotine. Don’t use the product. You’re not our target consumer,” he said in a recent interview with CBS This Morning.
If you are trying to stop smoking, schedule an appointment so we can discuss what options may work best for you.
Jeremiah Robinson is a licensed and certified Physician Assistant at T. Douglas Gurley MD in Atlanta, GA.