Vaping is a newer concern for this generation. Most people know the dangerous effects of smoking…but vaping? As a parent of a child that may be vaping, you may be wondering what vaping even is. It can be scary trying to navigate how to handle this situation and recognize the signs that your teen is vaping.

In this article, we will explore the most common signs your child is vaping, and provide you with the necessary information to address this issue. It's important to note that while these signs can be potential indicators, they are not definitive proof. Open and honest communication with your teen is crucial for understanding their habits and offering guidance.

The Rise of Teen Vaping

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's 2019 annual National Tobacco Survey reported that 27.5% of youth in the United States admitted to using e-cigarettes within the last 30 days, a significant increase from 20.8% in 20181. Additionally, a survey conducted by the National Institutes for Health found that 37% of 12th graders reported vaping in 2018, compared to 28% in 2017. These statistics highlight the growing concern surrounding teen vaping and the need for parents to be vigilant in preventing and recognizing the signs your child is vaping

Before Noticing Signs that Your Child is Vaping: Awareness and Open Conversations

One of the best approaches to figure out if your teen is vaping is to have regular conversations with your child about the use of vape and tobacco products. By engaging in open and honest discussions, you can have a positive impact on their habits. It is also essential to be aware of the friends and company that your child keeps, as peer influence plays a significant role in vaping initiation.

Signs Your Teen is Vaping:

While it can be challenging to determine if your child is vaping unless you discuss it with them or catch them in the act, there are several key signs that your child may vaping that you can watch for. Here’s how to tell if your child has been vaping:

1. A Sweet Scent in the Air

Before the recent ban, many vaping pods included sweet flavors that were often preferred by teens. Although these flavors have been banned to curb teen vaping, your child may still have some of the banned products or residue from them. This is one of the most common signs your teen is vaping.

2. Unfamiliar Pens and USB Drives

E-cigarettes come in various forms, with the most common resembling writing pens or USB flash drives. However, vaping devices will have holes on each end, distinguishing them from regular pens or USB drives.

3. Drinking More Water

Vaping can cause dehydration or dry mouth, primarily due to the ingredient called propylene glycol present in the e-liquid. If you notice your teen drinking more water or exhibiting dark circles under their eyes, it may be a sign of dehydration resulting from vaping.

4. Nosebleeds

Propylene glycol, a chemical found in e-liquid, is known to be dehydrating and can reduce moisture inside the nose. When a person vapes, exhaling vapor through the nose can cause dryness, leading to nosebleeds. This is a small, but important sign your teen is vaping that you can watch for.

5. Smoker's Cough or Mouth Sores

Recent research has linked e-cigarettes to mouth sores that won't heal, along with a smoker's cough. The vapors from e-cigarettes can upset the immune system and have negative effects on human cells.

6. New Batteries and Chargers

Most vaping devices require rechargeable batteries that need to be changed every two hours of use, while some can be charged with a USB cable. If you notice unfamiliar batteries or charging devices, that’s a potential sign your teen is vaping.

7. Discarded Vaping Pods and Devices

If you come across items such as discarded cotton balls, thin metallic oils, pods, or atomizers (the small devices that turn the liquid into vapor) in your child's backpack or trash, it is a clear sign your child is vaping.

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Understanding the Dangers of Vaping

It's essential to recognize that vaping is not a harmless activity. The long-term complications of vaping are still not fully understood, as it is a relatively recent phenomenon. However, research has shown that vaping poses a serious health threat and is far from being a safe alternative to smoking.

Nicotine Addiction

E-cigarettes often contain nicotine, a highly addictive substance. The nicotine content in some e-cigarettes, such as JUUL pods, can be as high as that in one pack of cigarettes. Nicotine addiction can have severe consequences for teens, as the adolescent brain is more susceptible to the addictive properties of nicotine, increasing the likelihood of progressing to cigarette smoking.

Exposure to Toxic Chemicals

When heated, the e-liquid in e-cigarettes turns into an aerosol that contains toxic chemicals such as formaldehyde, chromium, lead, and nickel. These chemicals can expose the lungs to toxic particles and other cancer-causing substances. Additionally, other substances like marijuana, opiates, and synthetic drugs can be used with e-cigarettes, further increasing the health risks.

Unknown Long-Term Effects

Due to the relatively recent emergence of vaping, the long-term effects are still unknown. It may take another 10 to 15 years before we fully understand the potential complications and health consequences of this harmful habit. In the meantime, it is crucial to stay informed and take preventive measures.

Prevention and Intervention

Preventing your child from engaging in vaping requires ongoing communication and vigilance. Here are some steps you can take to address the issue:

1. Open and Honest Communication

Maintain open lines of communication with your child, expressing your concerns about their health and safety. Keep the conversation non-judgmental and supportive, showing that you genuinely care about their well-being.

2. Set Clear Expectations

Clearly communicate your expectations regarding vaping. Let your child know that you do not want them to vape and that you expect them not to engage in this activity. Setting clear boundaries and expectations can help guide their decision-making.

3. Be a Positive Role Model

Set a positive example by being vape- and tobacco-free yourself. If you currently smoke or vape, consider making a commitment to quit and seek support if needed. Creating a smoke-free and vape-free environment at home reinforces the message that vaping is not acceptable.

4. Educate Your Child

Can you test your child for vaping? Instead of testing, try providing factual information about the dangers of vaping, including the risks associated with nicotine addiction, exposure to toxic chemicals, and potential long-term effects. Utilize reputable sources and engage in discussions that emphasize the importance of making informed choices.

5. Help Them Quit

If you discover signs that your teen is vaping, approach the situation with empathy and support. Help them find motivation to quit, highlighting the benefits of being healthy, avoiding addiction, and preventing negative health effects. Encourage them to seek resources and support programs designed to assist teens in quitting vaping.

Relay is an addiction recovery platform that offers complete recovery support for 10% the cost of therapy. Relay offers support groups the accountability you need to overcome any addiction. Check out the recovery program here.

Conclusion

Recognizing the signs that your teen is vaping is an important step in addressing this growing concern. Can you test your child for vaping? By having open conversations, understanding the risks, and providing support, you can guide your child towards making healthier choices. Stay informed, stay engaged, and prioritize your child's well-being as you navigate the challenges of parenting in the era of vaping.

Sources

Nebraska Medicine - 7 signs your teen is vaping

Partnership to End Addiction - How to tell if your child is vaping

KidsHealth - Vaping: What parents should know

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