Think Vaping Is Safe? This Lung Disease Says Otherwise

April 02, 2025   107

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EVALI: The Lung Disease Every Vaper Should Know About

Vaping feels trendy, modern, and safer than smoking, proper? But here's something you might not know — people are landing in the hospital with severe lung injuries. It's not some urban legend. It's real. It's called EVALI.

What Is EVALI?

EVALI stands for E-cigarette or Vaping product use-Associated Lung Injury. The first significant outbreak happened in the U.S. back in 2019. Most cases were in young adults, many of them teens.

The lungs suddenly get inflamed. Breathing becomes hard. Some people end up in the ICU, and yes — some have died.

"Parents should know EVALI symptoms can mimic pneumonia or flu — but they get worse fast. It's scary how many young people we've seen with sudden respiratory collapse after vaping." — Anna, RN, Prolife Home Care.

What Causes It?

Most EVALI cases are linked to THC vapes that contain vitamin E acetate. This oil-based substance isn't supposed to go into your lungs. It sticks to lung tissue and causes massive inflammation.

Where do people get these dangerous vapes? From friends. Online shops. Instagram sellers. Sometimes, gas stations. They look just like the real thing but can seriously hurt you.

Learn more about the policy side of vape regulation: FDA Tobacco Official Removed — How It Could Affect You.

 

Symptoms of EVALI

Think flu. Then, make it worse.

• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Coughing
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fever
• Tiredness

If you're a teen or young adult and you vape, and you feel these symptoms — don't ignore them. Get checked immediately.

How Do Doctors Diagnose It?

EVALI isn't easy to spot. Doctors do a bunch of tests:

• Chest X-rays or CT scans
• Blood oxygen tests
• Bloodwork
• Ruling out COVID, pneumonia, etc.

If caught early, it's treatable. But wait too long, and your lungs might not fully recover.

Is It Curable?

In many cases, yes. Doctors often treat EVALI with steroids and oxygen therapy. Most people recover, but some need to stay in the hospital for weeks.

"Some teens bounce back, but others live with long-term damage. It's not a risk worth taking for a trend." — Anna, RN, Prolife Home Care.

EVALI vs. Popcorn Lungs

A lot of people confuse EVALI with another vape-related illness called "popcorn lungs."

EVALIPopcorn Lungs

Onset Sudden Gradual

Cause Vitamin E acetate (THC vapes) Diacetyl in flavored e-liquids

Reversible? Often, with treatment No — damage is permanent

Symptoms: Chest pain, fever, nausea, Dry cough, wheezing, shortness of breath

Learn more about popcorn lungs and vaping: Popcorn Lungs — The Hidden Danger of Vaping for Teens

What Can You Do?

• Don't use vapes from friends or random sellers
• Avoid THC vapes — especially if you don't know what's inside
• Know the symptoms of EVALI
• Talk to your kids, your friends, your classmates

You can't see lung damage until it's too late. Stay safe.

Final Thoughts

EVALI is real. It's dangerous. And it can happen to anyone who vapes, even once. The good news? It's also preventable.

Know what you're inhaling. Read. Talk. Share this info. And remember — no vape is worth your lungs.

FAQs

What is EVALI?

EVALI stands for "e-cigarette or vaping product use-associated lung injury." It's a severe lung disease caused by inhaling harmful substances while vaping.

Is EVALI the same as popcorn lungs?

No. EVALI is usually sudden and caused by vitamin E acetate. Popcorn lungs are long-term and caused by diacetyl.

Can EVALI be cured?

Yes, if caught early. Treatment includes steroids and oxygen. Severe cases may need hospitalization.

What are the symptoms?

Chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing, nausea, fever, fatigue.

How can I avoid EVALI?

Don't vape — especially not THC products from unverified sources. Know what you're using and be aware of early symptoms.