E-cigarettes have been marketed as a safe alternative to smoking. However, these battery powered devices are not safe and can be just as addicting as regular tobacco cigarettes. In recent years, there has been an enormous spike in young kids being exposed to liquid nicotine and vaping either through peers, their parents or the media.
According to researchers, exposure to liquid nicotine and electronic cigarettes went up nearly 1,400 percent from 2012-2015. Luckily, the number of teens vaping fell by 20 percent from 2015-2016. However, experts suggest that these numbers are still too high and a 20 percent drop from 1,400 isn’t a remarkable decrease. The large public misconception that nicotine is harmless has led many children to have easier access to these electronic cigarettes.
A study in 2015 by the National Youth Tobacco Survey found that 16 percent of high school kids vape. Many minors have found creative ways to purchase liquid nicotine online and according to a study published in JAMA pediatrics, 94% can successfully get their e-cigarettes delivered to them online. E-cigarettes are considered tobacco products because most of them contain nicotine.
According to Houston criminal defense attorney, David Breston, “The FDA regulations on vaping is very clear for minors. Under federal law, no one under the age of 18 is allowed to purchase any tobacco or e-cigarette product – regardless of its amount of nicotine.” Even though its against the law to sell to minors, some young teens have found tricky ways around getting their hands on vapes. Here are a few things to look out for if you suspect your child is vaping.
Sweet Smells
E-cigarettes don’t have the same smell as a traditional cigarette. In fact, some experts believe a big appeal to the younger generation is the wide variety of candy-like flavors. Some smell and tastes like bubblegum, cotton candy or fruit. If you are picking up on strong and fruity odors, there’s a chance your young one may be vaping in the other room.
Bloodshot Eyes
When it comes to vaping, there aren’t very many physical signs to look out for. However, bloodshot eyes can be an indication that your child has been vaping. Propylene Glycol, a chemical compound found in “e-juice,” is known to irritate eyes and dry them out. Smoke can cause blood vessels in your eyes to constrict, which dries out the surface of your eyes.
Irritability
Irritable or anxious behaviors can be a sign your child is experiencing withdrawals from nicotine.
Excessive Thirst
Dehydration is a very common side effect to vaping. The main reason for dehydration when vaping comes from the e-juice. The chemical compounds Propylene Glycol (PG) that make up the ingredients in vaping juice extract water molecules from surrounding areas. As a result, when vapor enters the body, it gives the user a dry mouth and may cause your child to have excessive thirst.
Unfamiliar Devices, Batteries and Chargers
If you catch that your child has any interesting shaped batteries and chargers lying around, I would investigate a little further. Many vaporizers come with unique shaped plug-ins that may fit a USB plug or take android shaped chargers. Vaping devices come in many shapes and sizes. Vape pens are the most commonly used E-cigarettes by teenagers and they are shaped like a normal pen.
Start The Conversation
Talk to your teen if you notice behavior changes or any of the signs listed above. Statistics show boys are two times more likely to use “e-cigs” than girls. Exposure through media has contributed to the rise of usage among middle school and high school students. 52.8 percent of middle school students are exposed to e-cig retail ads, 35.8 percent to internet ads, 34.1 percent to TV and movie ads, and 25.0 percent to newspaper and magazine ads. Sadly, these numbers are even higher for high school students.
Having a discussion in a natural setting with your child will increase the chances of them listening to you. Find the right moment and be supportive of their feelings. If you suspect your child is vaping and you don’t feel comfortable talking to them, ask your health care provider to get the conversation started. Supportive adults can help reinforce your message as a parent.
Educate Yourself and Set an Example
Knowing the facts about the dangers of E-cigarettes when you sit down with your child will be a crucial part to laying down the law. They may have several questions for you and the more prepared you are, the better. Set an example for your little ones and avoid smoking or smoking around them. Keep the conversation going and reach out to your teen. Let them know you are there if they need to talk and encourage them to set an example among their peers.