Doctors Report First Documented Case of “Popcorn Lung” From Vaping

A teenager spent 47 days in hospital.

A Canadian teenager has developed a dangerous condition known as “popcorn lung” after several months of intensive vape smoking. This is reported by Gizmodo.

This is the first case linking this chronic lung disease to the use of e-cigarettes.

The disease was named this way because it was first documented in 2000 among workers at a microwave popcorn factory who were exposed to the aromatic chemical diacetyl. 

“Popcorn lung” occurs after chemical irritants, in particular diacetyl, affect the bronchioles, impeding the free movement of air. The chemical causes nodules to form in the bronchioles.

Main symptoms of “popcorn lung”

• cough (usually without phlegm)
• wheezing
  
• worsening shortness of breath during physical exertion
  

The case of the Canadian teenager reveals a new form of lung damage linked to e-cigarettes, as “popcorn lung” differs from other vaping-related diseases.

According to the study, the 17-year-old boy sought medical help after developing a persistent cough, fever and fatigue. Over the course of 5 months, the teenager vaped heavily, using various flavored cartridges. He regularly added THC, the psychoactive component of marijuana, to his flavorings. According to his parents, he also developed a habit of taking deep breaths while smoking.

The teenager’s condition worsened, so hospital staff admitted him to the intensive care unit. He managed to avoid a lung transplant. His condition eventually improved, but he spent a total of 47 days in hospital.

California recently sued the country’s largest e-cigarette maker, arguing that Juul deliberately marketed and sold its flavored e-cigarettes to teenagers.