how can i tell if my son is vaping

Here are some signs that your child may be vaping:

• Increased thirst. Vaping is hydroscopic, meaning the process of vaping removes hydration from skin of the mouth and throat. ...
• Desire for flavor. Moisture is key to enjoying the flavor of foods. ...
• Nosebleeds. Just like vaping dries the mouth, it dries the skin of the nose as well. ...
• Acne. ...
• Cutting back on caffeine. ...
• Pneumonia. ...
• Finding unfamiliar USB drives, battery chargers or spare parts. ...

Full Answer

How do you know if someone is vaping?

Here’s 9 Signs to Watch For, that identified several signs of vaping which included: Finding Organic Cotton Balls and Metallic Wires, and Finding Discarded Atomizers or Juul Pods. Since that article was published, more side effects have come to light that are often tell-tale signs of vaping.

Is your child vaping?

The vapors disrupt the immune system which can have harsh effects on human cells. Keep your eye on your child if they complain of sores in their mouth or begin to show signs of an unexplained cough. It could be a sign that your child is vaping. While some vape pens can be charged with a simple USB cable, most require batteries.

What should you do if you find your child’s empty vape pods?

You just found your child’s empty vape pods. Now what? According to a recent article in the New York Times, “ How to Help Teenagers Quit Vaping ,” First of all, don’t panic. Before you confront your child, educate yourself. Try to see the situation from your teen’s perspective.

How can I talk to my teen about vaping?

“That involves talking and listening, trying to create an environment where a teenager can feel like they can go to their parent for help,” Jenssen said. He advises parents to ask questions long before the subject of vaping might ever come up, and to really listen to their teen’s answers.

Can you test your child for vaping?

Blood Test: A simple blood draw can detect traces of nicotine about two hours after use. Test priced at $70. Hair Follicle Test: This is a good option for parents who think their child has been either vaping or smoking nicotine for a long period of time and the child might stop using it just to get through the test.

Can you tell if someone is vaping in your house?

“The biggest thing to look for is paraphernalia, like chargers, cartridges, cartridge packs, e-juice bottles, etc.” he said of items that are left out inadvertently. Parents may smell odors if a child is vaping in the bathroom or bedroom, and they may spot symptoms if their child vapes a synthetic drug, he added.

What are 3 signs of a vaping addiction?

There are also several physical signs of addiction.Dry Mouth. Propylene glycol, a common ingredient found in e-juice, can cause dry mouth. ... Dizziness. Researchers monitored 33 smokers over 21 days. ... Coughing. For some, vaping is a gateway to smoking. ... Skin Problems. ... Itchiness. ... Dry Eyes. ... Nosebleeds. ... Nicotine Overdose.More items...•

What to do if you suspect your child is vaping?

If your child is caught vaping or admits to vaping, try to stay calm and non-judgmental. Listen, don't lecture....Invite your child to talk, be patient and ready to listen.Try to understand their feelings.Avoid showing judgment.Keep asking questions and check to make sure you understand.

Is there a device that can detect vaping?

3D Sense is a vape detector that works on many of these fronts to help combat vaping. 3D Sense continuously monitors its environment to detect vaping, smoking, and air quality disruptions. When vaping is detected, chosen contacts get an alert on their phone so they can investigate further.

Can you smell if someone is vaping?

E-cigarettes don't smell bad like the smoke from combusting tobacco, however, most e-liquids have flavors in them that usually smell nice like candy, mint, vanilla, fruit punch etc. If you catch a sudden whiff of any of these but none of them is around, consider this a red flag. that it could be a vaporizer.

How can I tell if my teenager is vaping?

Signs a person is vapingA sweet scent in the air. ... Unfamiliar pens and USB drives. ... Drinking more water. ... Nosebleeds. ... Smoker's cough or mouth sores. ... New batteries and chargers. ... Discarded vaping pods and devices.

Should I punish my child for vaping?

Now that you are aware of the hazards brought by e-cigarettes, you have every right to punish your teen for vaping. It does not matter if they are only using it for recreational purposes. Vaping is still addictive and damaging. Some ways to punish your child are scolding and grounding them.

What is Vaper's tongue?

Vaper's tongue (also known as vaper's fatigue) is a term that covers taste-related ailments. Often this happens from frequent use of a single, individual flavour. So, if you've been vaping the same flavour for a few weeks. you'll probably start to notice the difference in taste or lack thereof.

Can you smell vape in a house?

Some vaping products also produce odors that can be hard to remove. These smells may not be as strong as those caused by tobacco smoking; still, a shopper may notice odors while touring the home.

What are 5 risks of vaping?

Vaping has been linked to lung injury.Rapid onset of coughing.Breathing difficulties.Weight loss.Nausea and vomiting.Diarrhea.

What does vaping sound like?

As the e-liquid is vaporised it makes a slight popping or crackling sound. This will be slightly more noticeable if your atomizer head is brand new. If you hear your vape crackle, it actually means that it is performing well and your coil is doing what it needs to.

How do you find a vape in your house?

A PM2. 5 detector is an excellent low cost detector in an indoor environment to confirm if vapers or e-cigarettes were used. A sensitive PM2. 5 detector can be considered a vaping, vaper, or e-cigarette detector.

Does vaping leave a smell in a room?

Even in a poorly ventilated area with windows shut, any smells from vaping should be gone in only ten minutes or so, instead of lasting around for hours like smoking. When one is vaping outdoors in comparison, the smell from your vape will hardly be noticeable at all and will disappear extremely quickly.

What happens when you vape in a house?

Bottom Line: Does Vaping Negatively Impact Indoor Air Quality? The short answer as to whether vaping will impact indoor air quality is yes. If you vape or allow other people to vape in your home, over time it could pose a risk to your air ducts, which does impact your air quality.

Does vaping in the House leave residue?

Vaping indoors leads to the deposit of aerosol residue on surfaces, in much the same way as smoking indoors leads to the deposit of tobacco smoke residue, known as thirdhand smoke.

Why do kids vape?

If you see your child heavily increasing their liquid consumption (and also peeing more), they may be vaping. Desire for flavor. Moisture is key to enjoying the flavor of foods. When the mouth is dried out, you lose flavor perception. So, with routine vaping, food can become less flavorful.

Why does vaping cause dry mouth?

Increased thirst. Vaping is hydroscopic, meaning the process of vaping removes hydration from skin of the mouth and throat. This leaves users with a dry, flat palate. As a natural consequence, the body craves liquids to combat dehydration. If you see your child heavily increasing their liquid consumption (and also peeing more), they may be vaping.

What are the parts of an e-cigarette?

E-cig devices do have parts and cartridges that need to be exchanged and replaced. Commonly, these parts are spare wires, cotton balls or small containers (“pods”) that contain e-juice. If your teen is carrying an unfamiliar tech-looking device, or if there are interesting items in their trash bin, I might ask.

Does vaping make your nose bleed?

So, with routine vaping, food can become less flavorful. This even has a name: “vaper's tongue.”. If your teen is reaching for the salt or enjoying unusually spicy foods, this may be a clue. Nosebleeds. Just like vaping dries the mouth, it dries the skin of the nose as well. When the nose gets dry, it can bleed. Acne.

Do Juul pods contain nicotine?

Most importantly, however, is the knowledge that kids’ brains are super sensitive to nicotine. All Juul and Phix pods contain nicotine. When an immature brain (read: less than 25 years old) is exposed, it takes less of the drug to get addicted.

Is vaping a risk for teens?

Watch for signs of nicotine use in your teen to help with early intervention. As the popularity of vaping continues to rise, so does your child’s risk.

Is vaping bad for kids?

Short-term data and common sense confirm that vaping and kids is a bad combination. Research supports the notion that e-cigs are a potential gateway to consuming traditional tobacco products, leading to another generation of kids who will become exposed to tobacco’s known harmful effects.

How to tell if your child is vaping?

Other parts that could offer a warning would be metal coils, organic cotton balls, bottles of flavored liquid or “juice”, or colorful round rubber bands. These pieces belong to the larger e-cigarette typically called “mods”. These are bulkier versions that produce a larger cloud of smoke.

How to tell if a vape is a cigarette?

Devices to look out for include unusual looking pens or USB drive type items. You can confirm they are electronic cigarettes by looking at the device. There will be openings and/or holes on both ends. Some vapes have a button on the side and some will look like a classic smoking device, looks like an actual cigarette/cigar.

How much has vaping increased in the past 3 years?

Teen vaping figures have had a 14% increase just in the past 3 years. With their sleek designs and fruity flavors, teenagers cannot resist them. Teens are developing a nicotine addiction from these devices. Here are some ways to tell if your child is vaping.

Why does vaping dry out your mouth?

In addition to the loss of appetite, continuous vaping causes one’s mouth to dry out. When this happens, the desire for more flavor or even spice may increase. This is another potential sign to look out for, coupled with other considerations.

Why does vaping make my throat hurt?

Additionally, if the vape device has a leak, this can cause the raw e-liquid to go straight into the mouth and/or throat causing instant irritation and a burning sensation. Studies have shown that most new users begin coughing when they are introduced to vaping.

How do you know if you have nicotine addiction?

Early signs of nicotine addiction can include increased anxiety, irritability, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, depressed mood, anger, frustration, insomnia, and changes in bowel movements. If your child is showing any of these behaviors it may require further investigation.

What is the flavor of vapor?

Strong smells (fruity, minty, or sweet) There are many flavors and types of vapor with some being odorless. But teens and children that are vaping typically resort to the sweet and/or fruity flavors of vapor. The piece containing the vapor flavor is called, e-juice, e-liquid, or flavor pods. Most public places will allow users to smoke e-cigarettes ...

How do you know if your child is vaping?

The vapors disrupt the immune system which can have harsh effects on human cells. Keep your eye on your child if they complain of sores in their mouth or begin to show signs of an unexplained cough. It could be a sign that your child is vaping.

How long does a vape pen battery last?

While some vape pens can be charged with a simple USB cable, most require batteries. And, since an e-cig vape pen battery typically only lasts two hours with constant use, the battery needs to be charged regularly. If you find an unfamiliar battery or battery charging device, this could serve as another red flag that your child may be vaping.

What are the most common e-cigarettes for teens?

E-cigs come in many forms. They can resemble traditional tobacco cigarettes, cigars, and pipes. However, the most common e-cigs among teens are JUULs – sleek devices that resemble a USB flash drive – and vape pens that resemble traditional pens.

What does it mean when a pen looks like a USB drive?

If you come across an unusual looking pen or USB drive, often with holes on each end, chances are it’s a vaping device and not a typical pen or USB drive.

What is an atomizer in an e-cigarette?

The atomizer is an important part of any e-cig. It’s the component of the e-cig that turns the e-liquid into vapor. The atomizers don’t last forever and eventually need to be discarded. If you come across a discarded atomizer in your child’s room, it can be a good indication that your child has been vaping.

How many high school students use e-cigarettes?

According to the Center’s for Disease Control and Prevention’s annual National Tobacco Survey, 27.5 percent of high school students reported using an e-cigarette within the last 30 days, up from 20.8 percent in 2018. Originally designed to help people quit smoking cigarettes, e-cigs have turned into a national infatuation among teens ...

What is e-liquid flavored?

Although the vapor produced by e-cigarettes can be either odorless or scented, given the choice, most teenagers will choose the scented (or flavored) vapor. The e-liquid, also known as e-juice, available on the market for e-cigarettes comes in a variety of enticing flavors such as Gummi Bear, Berry Lush, Frozen Lime Drop, and Watermelon Wave that all too many teens are eager to try. If you notice a sweet scent that is unexplainable, it might require further investigation on your part.

Can e-cigarettes cause smoking?

If you’re concerned your child may be vaping marijuana, read this article published by Partnership for Drug-Free Kids, “ How to Know if Your Kid is Vaping Marijuana, ” which outlines exactly how marijuana is vaped, how you can recognize the warning signs and what you can do if you suspect your child is vaping marijuana.

Is vaping slowing down?

Ranked as one of the top highest concerns of parents today, the infatuation with vaping among teenagers shows no sign of slowing down . To better understand what vaping is, how vape products work, more information about how to recognize if your child is vaping and what steps you can take to prevent your child from vaping, here are a few additional resources worth reading:

Does vaping cause acne?

While there’s no clear connection between vaping, in general, and acne, experts have noted a connection between nicotine and changes in the skin, including increased risk for acne. Nicotine has also been found to age the skin and slow the healing process of wounds. And, since products such as JUUL contain high levels of nicotine, teens are at risk for changes in their skin.

Does vaping cause irregular periods?

Although the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) confirmed with Raising Teens Today that vaping in and of itself may not be to blame for irregular periods or shifts in a woman’s menstrual cycle, smoking cigarettes (which has a high nicotine content similar to e-cig nicotine products such as Juuls) has been found to disrupt the normal menstrual cycle. According to the CDC, “Some studies suggest that cigarette smoking may alter menstrual function by increasing the risks for dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation), secondary amenorrhea (lack of menses among women who ever had menstrual periods), and menstrual irregularity.” WebMD also confirmed that statement, “Women who smoke experience more severe premenstrual symptoms and have a 50 percent increase in cramps lasting two or more days.”

Is nicotine bad for kids?

Nicotine has it’s fair share of dangerous side effects, however, kids are especially at risk. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “Teenage smokers suffer from shortness of breath almost three times as often as teens who don’t smoke.” And, according to cardiologist, John D. Day, MD, director of heart rhythm specialists at Intermountain Heart Institute in Murray, Utah, “E-cigarettes have nicotine and nicotine has dangerous cardiovascular effects. This is because nicotine narrows the arteries in the heart and throughout the body, he says. Over time, this can cause serious harm to the cardiovascular system and lead to heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure.”

Do teens know what they're vaping?

The article, Vaping Teens Exposed to as Much Nicotine as Tobacco Smokers But Don’t Know It, brings to light results of an alarming new study that confirms our worst fear – teens have no idea exactly what they’re vaping.

Can vaping cause stiffness?

A study conducted by the Karolinska Institute, a medical university in Stockholm, found that vape products with nicotine can result in stiffening of the arteries as well as increased heart rate and blood pressure. The study found that 30 minutes after vaping, study participants experienced a significant increase in blood pressure, heart rate and arterial stiffness.

What are the signs of a vaping habit?

Vaping devices usually come with detachable parts. Disposable or refillable pods that contain the e-juice (or e-liquid or vape juice), atomizers, coils and lithium-ion batteries and chargers are some of the more obvious signs of a vaping habit. However, some vaping devices may look like benign objects in disguise.

What are the symptoms of vaping?

Symptoms may include chest pain, increased heart rate, abdominal pain, shortness of breath, fever, nausea and fatigue.

What does a Juul vape look like?

However, some vaping devices may look like benign objects in disguise. JUUL achieved phenomenal success in part by designing its devices to resemble USB drives that can be hidden and charged in plain sight. Other manufacturers are now designing vape devices that resemble watches, pens, markers and other common objects.

Why do vapers cough?

Vaping inflames mouth cells and oral tissue, which could lead to lesions, gum disease, tooth loss and other forms of oral decay. It can also irritate the throat, causing vapers to frequently cough or clear their throat. 9. Lung injury, chest pain.

How many high schoolers have vaped?

Last year, federal health officials made a shocking announcement: More than one in five high schoolers and one in 20 middle schoolers reported that they had vaped within the past month. This year, the epidemic of youth vaping has continued to grow. More than 3.6 million U.S. school children vape, according to the Surgeon General.

Why is vaping bad for kids?

If your child’s academic or athletic performance starts to decline, it could be due to nicotine-induced changes in the brain. Students who get caught vaping at school may be suspended or kicked off the team.

Why does my child have trouble breathing?

3. Shortness of breath. If your child is an athlete and starts having trouble breathing during practices or games, it could be due to vaping.

What is an end vape?

Unlike cigarettes, however, ENDS (electronic nicotine delivery systems) have the advantage of being more easily concealed and used without being detected. They also have the advantage of mixing highly-addictive nicotine with familiar and enjoyable flavors, like sweets. Because of these convenient factors, pod vapes have become a trend of the last few years among young people which is causing problems with nicotine addiction.

Why are pod vapes so popular?

Pod vapes are especially popular with teenage users because they are small and unassuming.

How to teach kids about nicotine?

Let them know of the dangers of nicotine in the abstract. Try to keep from telling them what they are ‘doing to themselves,’ and instead focus on the issue itself. Be a teammate, instead of a parent, advises the US News & World Report. Even let them know aloud that you are on their side. Be sure to set clear expectations, though, too. If you come across as wishy-washy or lackadaisical, your child may not take you seriously. Keep it relevant, but keep it light.

How many young people use flavored e-cigarettes?

With over 2 million young flavored e-cigarette users, the threat of removing devices from official channels could easily create a black market scenario. Friends, parents, and other community members (including teachers and other staff at school) have a responsibility to help youth understand exactly what they’re getting themselves into by using pod vapes. The first step is to know some of the tell-tale signs that someone you know is ‘juuling,’ and then how to help them.

What happens if a child stops asking for coca cola?

If your child stops asking for coca-cola on the grocery list, they may have taken up a more damaging substance. ‘Vaper’s Tongue:’ When the mouth is dry, it loses some flavor perception. If your teen vapes, they may begin to look for increasingly spicier foods, or add more salt and other spices to their meals.

How to make sure e-cigarettes are never seen on school grounds?

It is important to talk early and often with your children about the many potential dangers of the world around them, and how to mitigate those pitfalls. Be open, be honest, and be straightforward. If everyone does their part, we can make sure that e-cigarettes are never seen on school grounds ever again.

Is smoking a habit for teens?

Cigarette smoking among youth is low, anti-smoking advocacy is high. Teens are continually disinterested in what they now know to be a smelly, disgusting, and very unhealthy habit.

How to react when a parent discovers their child is vaping?

Getty Images. Experts advise parents who discover their teen is vaping to react in a calm and measured manner. Ask questions and listen to the answers they give.

How many high school seniors have vaped?

In December 2018, the National Institute on Drug Abuse released a report detailing a “dramatic increase” in the use of vaping devices by teenagers, stating that 37.3 percent of high school seniors had vaped within the previous year.

How many people vape in school?

He says his clients report that, “at any given time between classes, there can be 15 to 20 people vaping in the school bathroom.”

What to do if your teenager is addicted to nicotine?

If your teenager has a nicotine addiction, your first step should be consulting with their pediatrician or your family doctor. They can help you determine how serious the addiction is and what options might be available for helping your teenager quit.

Why does the author suggest talking to teens about how the makers of tobacco products are trying to manipulate them?

Instead of harping on the dangers of smoking, he suggests talking to teens about how the makers of tobacco products are trying to manipulate them — because no teenager wants to believe they could be easily manipulated.

Does Juul contain nicotine?

Some e-ciga rette products, such as Juul, also contain nearly double the concentration of nicotine as regular cigarettes. And according to a recent NPR report, there’s very little standardization regarding what else goes into these products.

Is it safe to smoke e-cigarettes?

Despite marketing ads claiming e-cigarettes are a safer alternative to smoking, they’re addictive.

How many teens don't know about vaping?

Remember, almost 66% of teens don’t realize that vaping involves nicotine. or if they do know it, they don’t understand the dangers of it. So your mission is toeducate your teenager and help them see the dangers of vaping. Fortunately, there areplenty of resources available to you.

Why do teens get jittery when vaping?

Passing on caffeine.The effects of nicotine may make your teen jittery. Teens who normally rely on coffee or soda might start skipping it. Irritability. Nicotine affects brain chemistry, so your teen might get agitated more easily if they are vaping.

What is vaping and why is it bad for teens?

Vaping involves using a small device to heat a liquid. The heated liquid produces an aerosol, which is inhaled. The liquid usually contains nicotine and flavoring, which gives off a sweet smell.

What does vaping tongue mean?

Vaper’s Tongue. This is a term used to describe the loss of taste sensation that many teens who vape will experience. Your teen may complain that foods taste bland or start adding extra seasonings and spices to their meals.

How to get a vape out of your lungs?

Start by scheduling an appointment with your child’s doctor. They can give your teen a check-up to make sure their lungs have not been damaged as well as give them further information about vaping and the risks involved. Next, the two of you should call 1-800-QUIT-NOW or check outteen.smokefree.gov.

What are some examples of vaping devices?

Vaping involves heating up a liquid and there are some basic parts to most vaping devices. Some common things you might see include parts that look like USB drives, pens, unfamiliar chargers or batteries, cotton balls and metallic wires.

How do you know if you're smoking?

If you are looking for the classic signs of smoking, like a lingering odor on clothes or yellowed teeth or fingers, you won’t find them .The signs of vaping are more subtle, which is why it is important to be aware of them. Electronic cigarettes debuted in 2008, but in recent years, they have become much more popular with teenagers.