A few years ago, many people hailed vaping and e-cigarettes as a safer alternative to smoking. They claimed there were fewer chemicals and health concerns, and less risk of long-term addiction. However, there’s a new outbreak of vape and e-cigarette-related lung injuries across the country, and nobody knows the exact causes.
Since August 2019, over 800 vape users across the US, including children, have suffered strange lung injuries. Roughly a dozen people have died as a result of the damage. With the recent outbreak of vape and e-cigarette lung injuries, this is a good time to examine the damage caused and the factors responsible.
Symptoms and Injuries
Many victims of vape and e-cigarette lung injuries have experienced acute respiratory distress syndrome. Their lungs appear inflamed on x-rays. Examination of the tissue suggests injuries consistent with chemical burns. The swelling makes breathing difficult and can significantly reduce lung capacity. Additionally, fluid may amass in the lungs, causing further complications.
Doctors aren’t exactly sure what’s causing the damage. Many are pointing to prefilled unregulated THC cartridges. THC is the active ingredient in marijuana. Some researchers suggest a thickener, vitamin E acetate, found in these THC cartridges is responsible for clogging the lungs.
Causes and Concerns
However, only 70% of those with vape-related injuries report using THC cartridges. At this time, the CDC acknowledges that no single chemical is consistent in every vape and e-cigarette injury case. Until more information comes forward, the CDC advises against using vaping cartridges with THC.
If you or someone you love has been impacted by lung injuries or illnesses after using a vape or an e-cigarette, you might have a case. If you’d like to schedule a free case evaluation with an experienced attorney from McGee, Lerer & Associates, please give us a call at (310) 231-9717 or send us an email.