Vaping FAQs

how do i know if my kid is vaping

by Bessie Schuppe Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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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. ...

There are warning signs to watch for if you suspect your child may be vaping. These include new health issues, behavior changes, unusual objects around the house, sweet or strange odors, and the use of vaping lingo with friends.

Full Answer

What are the signs that your child is vaping?

What to Look For – Signs Your Kid is Vaping

  • Nosebleeds: Vaping dries out the nasal passageways. A dry nose can crack and bleed. ...
  • Increased Thirst and Dry Mouth: Vaping is hydroscopic – meaning it dries out the mouth and throat. ...
  • Caffeine Intake: Nicotine and caffeine together increase irritability, mood swings, and anxiety. ...
  • ‘Vaper’s Tongue:’ When the mouth is dry, it loses some flavor perception. ...

What do if you caught your kid vaping?

If you know your kid is vaping, you need to talk to them about it. You want to get enough information to understand the behavior itself, and what might make it hard to stop. Find out what your ...

How do you know if your child might be Vaping?

“Some signs that your child may be using are trouble breathing, chest pain, coughing, fatigue, night sweats and slowed caffeine use.” Pecht urged parents to pay attention to the signs and is offering free education sessions for parents at Clear Concepts this Saturday and April 2.

How to know if your kid is vaping marijuana?

Signs Your Child is Vaping and Next Steps to Take

  • Moodiness. According to SmokeFree.gov nicotine and mood are inextricably linked. ...
  • Irregular Periods. ...
  • Increased Heart Rate / Restlessness. ...
  • Shortness of Breath / Chest Pains. ...
  • Acne / Skin Changes. ...
  • Pneumonia. ...

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How do you know if your child is vaping?

Olorunnisola, these are some signs parents can look for that may suggest if a child is vaping:Increased thirst. Vaping removes hydration from the skin, especially around the mouth and throat. ... Nosebleeds. ... 'Vaper's tongue. ... Skin damage. ... Sleep disturbance. ... Emotional problems. ... Passing on caffeine.

What are 5 signs that someone 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.

Can I test my kid for vaping?

0:111:15How to test if your child is vaping - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo that means that you can test for blood urine saliva. Or hair to see if there is any nicotine thatMoreSo that means that you can test for blood urine saliva. Or hair to see if there is any nicotine that your kids have been using this is of course a test that has been around for decades.

Can you test for vaping at home?

Nicotine and THC Home Drug Test Kits detect tobacco, vaping, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, nicotine patches, and nicotine gum use by detecting cotinine in human urine. Add Urine Temperature strips and Adulteration tests for best results.

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 are 3 signs of a vaping addiction?

In fact, many of the e-liquids that fuel vaping devices contain habit-forming nicotine....Attempts to quit using nicotine may lead to withdrawal symptoms like:Strong cravings.Irritability.Difficulty concentrating.Anger.Insomnia.

How can I tell if my son is vaping in his room?

There are warning signs to watch for if you suspect your child may be vaping. These include new health issues, behavior changes, unusual objects around the house, sweet or strange odors, and the use of vaping lingo with friends.

Can doctors tell if you vape one time?

So, unless a patient walks into the clinic with a vaping device in hand and vapor billowing from their mouth, it's unlikely a doctor can tell if they have a history of e-cigarette use.

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 your pee tell if you vape?

However, just because vaping offers a different delivery method from traditional ways of smoking does not mean it can't cause you to fail a drug test. THC and Nicotine in a person's system are still detectable by standard urine, blood, or hair drug tests.

What does vaping smell like?

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.

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.

What are 4 effects of vaping?

Health effects of vaping include the risk of chronic nicotine addiction, lung disease and damage, cardiovascular damage and increased risk for additional substance use. Still, the popularity of vaping shows a lack of understanding of the potential side effects.

What are the symptoms of vaping too much?

Symptoms include:Persistent cough.Chest pain.Shortness of breath.Some users may even experience diarrhea, vomiting, nausea and fatigue before any breathing problems develop.

How can you tell if someone is vaping by their mouth?

Vaping dries out mucus membranes - the mouth, throat and nose. When the mouth is dry, it makes certain flavors harder to enjoy. Craving more salt or spice could be a sign of a drier mouth, which could be caused from vaping. That in combination with having nosebleeds from a drier nose can also be a clue into vaping.

How do you know vaping is affecting you?

Short-term symptoms: Individuals should watch for signs of cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea. These may be signs of lung damage. If you are experiencing these symptoms, seek medical attention. Lung disease: Vaping can make asthma and other existing lung diseases worse.

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.

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.

When was Juul introduced?

What is most concerning, however, is the explosive popularity of the JUUL. Introduced by PAX Labs in 2015 as a smoking alternative for adults, JUUL is a brand-name e-cigarette that has outpaced its competition due to its sleek, highly discreet shape that closely resembles a USB flash drive. Small enough to fit into the palm of your hand, each JUUL pod packs in as much nicotine as one pack of cigarettes Image: Juul, The Vape Device Teens are Getting Hooked On.

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.

What is a Juul pod?

To use a JUUL, users purchase JUUL “pods.” As the name suggests, the pod systems are e-cigs that make use of a pod as opposed to a traditional atomizer, although they pretty much serve the same function. If you happen to see discarded JUUL pods in your child’s backpack, bedroom, pockets or elsewhere, there’s reason for concern.

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 ...

How to teach your child about e-cigarettes?

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.

How do you know if you're vaping?

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.

Why does vaping cause dehydration?

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.

Do e-cigarettes smell like candy?

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.

Is it safe to smoke e-cigarettes?

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.

Why are pod vapes so popular?

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

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.

When did the FDA stop e-cigarettes?

The agency has issued numerous warnings, fines, and demands to major manufacturers, distributors, and retailers alike. When the FDA originally took over vape regulation in 2015, Gottlieb halted all new e-cigarettes on the market from 2016 forward barring a rigorous application process – which no company has yet been approved through. Pod vapes were on the market already, and were given a lengthy timeline to fulfill their materials – until 2022.

What is a Juul?

Juul, which resembles a small flash drive, is the most popular e-cigarette amongst underage users. Look for signs including increased thirst, irritability, nosebleeds, and restlessness. If you find unfamiliar USB cables, batteries, or chargers; empty pods, or the actual vaping devices then your kid may be vaping.

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.

Why are teens so prone to peer pressure?

It is probably no wonder, then, why youth (pre-teen to early-twenties) is when we are most prone to peer pressure and can easily develop dependencies on harmful substances. Once in a teen’s system, addictive chemicals rewire the mind. The limbic system – one of the brain’s ‘reward centers’ – is easily altered.

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.

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.

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.

What are the symptoms of vaping?

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

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.

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RAISING TEENS TODAY is a resource and safe zone for parents to share the joys, challenges, triumphs and frustrations of raising our oh, so imperfect (but totally awesome) teens. PLUS, sign up and you'll receive my FREE e-Book "Scoring Scholarships!"

Is vaping dangerous for teens?

While most kids brush off the use of vape products claiming they aren’t dangerous because what they’re inhaling is “simply a vapor,” emerging studies have confirmed that not only is vaping nicotine products particularly harmful for teens, the nicotine-free vape products are dangerous as well. In fact, unbeknownst to many teens and parents, vaping, whether it’s non-nicotine or nicotine vape products, can cause pneumonia. According to US News, there are nanoparticles present in e-cig vapor that can cause inflammation in the lungs. When lungs get inflamed, it can lead to pockets of bacterial infection and cause pneumonia.

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 is the chemical in e-liquid?

When heated, the e-liquid, which usually contains propylene glycol, glycerol, nicotine and chemical flavoring, turns into an aerosol. This aerosol contains some of the same toxic chemicals found in cigarette smoke such as formaldehyde, chromium, lead and nickel, exposing the lungs to toxic metal particles and other cancer-causing chemicals.

Why does vaping cause dry mouth?

Vaping can cause dehydration or dry mouth, most likely a cause of the ingredient in the e-liquid called propylene glycol. If your teen is drinking more water or has dark circles under their eyes, a symptom of dehydration, you may want to investigate further.

What is a vape pod?

Here's what we do know. Vaping uses a battery powered device called an e-cigarette that warms a liquid, turning it into a vapor that can be inhaled. The liquid is typically purchased in pods and comes in a variety of flavors. Most e-cigarette pods contain nicotine that is often more concentrated than in cigarettes and impacts brain function, attention and memory. For instance, JUUL pod packs can provide as much nicotine as one pack of cigarettes.

How to prevent vaping?

In the meantime, the best way to prevent your child from engaging in vaping is to continue to have open conversations and stay keenly aware of their habits.

Why does my child have nosebleeds?

Propylene glycol, one of the chemicals in the e-liquid, is a dehydrating chemical that can reduce moisture inside the nose. When a person vapes, they typically exhale vapor through the nose, causing dryness, which can lead to nosebleeds.

Why do teens have a sensitivity to caffeine?

Because e-cigarettes often contain such high doses of caffeine, teens can sometimes develop a sensitivity to caffeine. If you notice your teen has cut back on drinking caffeine products like coffee or energy drinks, it could indicate a sign of vaping.

How to help a child with e-cigarettes?

The best approach is to have regular conversations with your child about the use of e-cigarettes and tobacco products , and hope you can have a positive impact on their habits. You should also be aware of the friends and company that your child keeps. If they are e-cigarette or tobacco users, there's a good chance your child is using these products as well.

What is the most important thing Jenssen and Mopper discuss?

One of the most important things both Jenssen and Mopper discuss is avoiding a situation where you might catch your teenager vaping before being aware it’s something they’ve tried.

What is Smokefree Teen?

Smokefree Teen is another resource with apps and texting options teens can access at any time.

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 is it important for teens to push back against their parents?

“As kids turn to teens, it’s natural for them to push back against their parents to assert their independence and to turn to their peers for support and guidance instead,” Mopper said.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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