Before answering the question, “can your lungs heal from vaping?" we need to look at the realistic risk of lung disease due to vaping.
Vaping causes a lung disease called E-cigarette or Vaping Use-Associated Lung Injury (EVALI). In the last ten years, a few thousand cases of EVALI have been reported in the US. Considering the population of the US, which is above 300 million, these numbers are not big.
On the other hand, only a few cases of EVALI have ever been reported in the UK. This is despite the fact that about 7-8% of the population vape in the UK. So, why is it that EVALI is so rare in the UK?
It appears that EVALI, or lung disease, occurs mainly due to certain contaminants and additives in vaping juices. Some of them worth mentioning are vitamin E, certain artificial flavours, high-THC, and nicotine.[1,2]
The reason EVALI or lung disease due to vaping is so rare in the UK is simple. In the UK, the CBD vape pens market is well regulated. In the UK, CBD vapes do not contain these contaminants or harmful substances.
Though the risk of lung disease due to CBD vaping is not nil, but it is extremely low. It appears that some people are sensitive to vaping e-liquids. They are prone to develop lung inflammation. Therefore, if you experience frequent respiratory issues after vaping, it is a good idea to consult a doctor and undergo an investigation.
Although vaping is extremely safe when done responsibly, it may cause some respiratory tract inflammation. Researchers are unsure why some people are more likely to develop this inflammation.
Some people may develop inflammation of the respiratory airway, while in others, vaping may cause damage to the lungs. It causes the death of lung cells in some individuals. Again, though this phenomenon is rare, it is a possibility.
If such lung issues occur, the lungs can still heal. Yes, the lungs can heal after some damage. However, one must seek medical attention early. If you have issues like chronic cough, wheezing, or difficulty breathing, do not neglect such issues. Instead, seek immediate medical attention.
The chance of complete recovery depends on early diagnosis of the condition. In some rare instances, lung disease may develop quickly over a few months, and individuals may not seek timely medical help. Such individuals are more likely to experience severe consequences.
The best way to minimise the risk of any such issues is to buy high-quality CBD vape pens. Such vape pens undergo third-party lab testing. Such vapes do not contain substances proven to harm the lungs. Additionally, e-juices in such vapes are of the highest quality and free from contaminants.
Nowadays, no legally produced vape in the UK contains Vitamin E, which is known to harm the lungs. Similarly, avoid vaping nicotine or illegally produced high-THC vapes. If you consider all these factors before buying a vape, chances are slim that you might experience any lung issues.
Legally sold vapes rarely cause any lung issues. Lung problems were first reported in the US, and researchers quickly identified the causes of lung issues. Severe lung injury due to vaping is extremely rare in the UK, with only a handful of cases reported annually.
Though the condition is rare, it can still be severe. Therefore, one should always seek timely medical attention. Outcomes will always depend on how quickly you realise your body is intolerant to specific vapes or e-liquids.
If you realise on time that your body is intolerant to vapes and give up vaping on time, seek medical attention. There is a high chance that your lungs will heal over time.
This article was authored by:Â Dr. Preet Pal Singh Bhinder.
This article was peer-reviewed by Dr M Mansoor Siddique (PhD). Dr Siddique has over eight years of experience working with CBD and CBD products.
Disclaimer: All of our products are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. It is recommended to check with doctor before starting a new dietary supplement program. All CBD products sold have less than 0.2% THC content and abide by both EU an UK law.