‘Popcorn Lung’ and what to look out for
GHENT, WV (WVNS) — It is no surprise that some people today love to indulge in smoking whether it is an occasional habit or an everyday occurrence.
Although smoking has been a huge addiction in the United States for decades, there are always risks and dangers that come with it. Similarly, vaping is just as addicting and popular as well. Vaping also comes with its risks and dangers, one of which is a condition called Popcorn Lung, or Bronchiolitis Obliterans.
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The American Lung Association states that ‘Popcorn Lung’ was discovered in a microwave popcorn factory over a decade ago. Workers were getting sickened by breathing in a substance called diacetyl, which is the main ingredient in microwave flavored popcorn. Although it may make popcorn and other treats taste better, it is linked to deaths and other hundreds of cases of respiratory issues.
According to lung.org, when the substance diacetyl is inhaled into the system, it causes Bronchiolitis Obliterans, also known as “Popcorn Lung,” which is a a scarring of the tiny air sacs in the lungs. This results in the thickening of scar tissue and narrowing of the airways, making it difficult to breathe. According to the Harvard Medical School, symptoms associated with this condition are those similar to COPD, or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, which include, coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath.
However, this chemical is still found in many e-cigarette, or vape flavors today. It is either in the vape itself or in the e-juice flavors used. This ingredient was eventually taken out of microwave popcorn, but then was introduced into vapes, still causing more damage and deaths today. Not all vape companies continue to use this ingredient today, but have found alternatives such as pentanedione and acetoin, which can still be harmful to the lungs and airways.
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There is still hope for those who wish to quit smoking. The American Lung Association wants to help improve lung health and save lives to prevent any kind of disease or death. For more information about lung risks from smoking or vaping, or how to quit, you can visit https://www.lung.org/blog/popcorn-lung-risk-ecigs.
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