Is My Teen Vaping?

Available in all shapes, sizes, colors, and flavors, e-cigarettes (vapes, mods, e-cigs, e-hookahs,

pens) are electronic devices that heat a liquid and produce an aerosol in the air (1). Nicotine, flavorings, other chemicals, and drugs, including marijuana, are in these devices. Research has proven that Nicotine, a highly addictive substance, harms the developing adolescent brain, and may impact learning, attention, mood, and impulse control. Using nicotine in adolescence may lead to future drug use. (1)

Although you must be 21 years of age (in Michigan), to purchase these devices, adolescents are finding ways to access these. Many get them from friends, local stores, delivery services such as Door Dash, and even pick up discarded vapes in the community. A 2022 study showed 2.55 million middle and high school students were using e-cigarettes, and nearly 1 in 4 admitted to daily use (2).

Signs your teen may be vaping include increased secrecy, frequent trips to the bathroom or reasons to step away, dry mouth and increased thirst, changes in sleep patterns, raspy cough, nose bleeds, irritability, mood swings, or changes in eating habits and weight gain/loss. You may also notice a sweet scent lingering in the air, after they vape, since many vapes are sweet flavors teens enjoy. Many vapes require charging which may be done through a standard USB cord. Be aware of unfamiliar batteries or charging devices.

We do not understand the long-term complications from vaping, but we know that this is an unhealthy habit. These e-cigarettes heat the liquid, turning it into a vapor that can be inhaled. When heated, the liquid becomes an aerosol and may contain some of the chemicals found in cigarettes, including formaldehyde, chromium, lead, and nickel, exposing the lungs to these toxic chemicals.

If you suspect your teen is vaping, have an open, honest conversation with them. Educate them on the dangers of using vapes and continue to have these conversations. Additionally, watch for changes in your teen’s behavior and routines, as well as unusual devices or charging cords among their possessions. Vaping and using nicotine in adolescence may lead to future drug use, so seek help for you and your teen as soon as possible. (1)