Whether it’s vaping or electronic cigarettes, smoking alternatives have become something of a fad in 2019. But following a recent flurry of deaths across the US, the Australian government has officially put out a statement, linking e-cigarettes to serious health issues.
Taking to their website, the Department of Health released a statement with their stance on the current craze.
“All Australian governments are united in maintaining a precautionary approach to the marketing and use of e-cigarettes. There is growing evidence implicating e-cigarettes in a range of harms to individual and population health,” they wrote.
“E-cigarettes are relatively new products and the long-term safety and health effects associated with their use and exposure to second-hand vapour are unknown.
“International evidence is emerging of a possible link between the use of e-cigarettes and lung disease. This includes severe lung disease requiring intensive care support and, as at 11 September 2019, at least six fatalities being linked with vaping in the United States.”
The organisation also noted possible symptoms from e-cigarettes. They recommend seeing a medical professional if symptoms are unexplained. They include:
- Respiratory symptoms – cough, shortness of breath or chest pain.
- Gastrointestinal symptoms – nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea.
- Fatigue.
- Fever.
- Weight loss.
And if you have been vaping or smoking e-cigarettes? The website suggests not only seeking medical advice, but also ceasing all use as well as using evidence-based treatments when quitting.
Curious about the damage that just one cigarette can do to your body? Read here.