If you’re like me, you’ve probably been vaping for a long time. Vaping has become commonplace in many people’s lives, but what exactly does it do to your body? One of the most common side effects that people experience is GERD or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. What is GERD, and how can vaping cause it? Are there any ways to help prevent GERD when you vape? 

GERD, or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, is an illness that can affect anyone who inhales vapor from electronic cigarettes. It is caused by the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus – basically, it happens when the pressure inside the stomach (gastric) is too high because the person isn’t able to relax their lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This causes the acidic contents of the stomach to leak out into the esophagus, which irritates the lining of the esophagus. The LES is located at the bottom of the esophagus, near where food enters the esophagus, so this irritation is more likely to happen while someone is eating. 

The exact cause of GERD is not yet known, but it is believed that smoking decreases the ability of the LES to close due to nicotine constriction, which increases the risk of reflux. Smoking also increases the amount of gastric juices that are produced, which may increase the risk of reflux as well. Another possible cause could be the decrease in saliva production that occurs with smoking, which helps keep the digestive tract working properly. 

How can vaping cause GERD? 

When a person vapes, they inhale vapor through a device called an “e-cigarette” that contains a battery and heating element. Most e-cigarettes contain a cartridge filled with liquid (called “juice”), which is often made from propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin. A small amount of THC (the active ingredient in marijuana) or nicotine may be added as well. When a user presses down on the e-cigarette’s mouthpiece, an electrical current passes through the heating coil, creating heat energy that vaporizes the juice. This produces a mixture of water vapor and some smaller amounts of other chemicals, such as nitrosamines, acetaldehyde, and acrolein. These ingredients have been found in laboratory testing to be harmless and non-toxic, but it is still unknown whether these chemicals pose a health risk to humans. 

The amount that a person consumes of cannabis vaping devices will decide the effect it will have. A person should do the complete research and go for the device that is not harmful. A person can even plan to go for the use after having a consultation with the professional. The doctors will recommend the exact dose of the vape to get good results.

When the heated air passes over the juice, it creates a mist that is inhaled by the user. Some of the mist will condense into droplets and fall to the ground before reaching the lungs. However, most of the mist will stay suspended in the air until the user exhales. This means that the aerosolized chemicals are actually inhaled by the user, which is why vaping can cause GERD. 

It is important to note that although e-cigarettes are used primarily as a way to quit smoking, it is illegal under federal law to use them to get high. E-cigarettes are also not FDA approved, so there is no guarantee that the chemicals in the vapor are safe for human consumption. 

What can I do to help prevent GERD? 

There is no surefire way to prevent GERD when you vape. But, if you want to minimize the risk of developing GERD, there are a few things that you should do. First off, try to avoid smoking whenever you can. If you cannot quit completely, then make sure to take breaks every few minutes during your session to slow the rate of inhalation. You can do this by taking a quick break to breathe deeply and slowly, and then return to vaping. 

Another thing to keep in mind is to practice proper hygiene. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, throat, and ears after using the e-cigarette or vaping. Also, wash your hands thoroughly before and after each vaping session. And, don’t share the same e-cigarette with others. 

Is there anything that can be done for GERD once it develops? 

Once GERD has developed, there are several treatment options available that can help reduce symptoms. 

One option is prescription medication. Antacids are usually recommended as the first course of action because they are effective against both heartburn and regurgitation. They include medications such as Zantac and Pepcid. Over-the-counter antacid medications such as Tums or Mylanta are also commonly prescribed. 

Other treatments involve lifestyle changes. These changes include avoiding foods and drinks that trigger heartburn, drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day, trying to eat small meals frequently, avoiding alcohol, exercising regularly, and sleeping well. 

Finally, some people choose to seek medical attention for their condition. There is no cure for GERD; however, it is treatable. In severe cases, surgical procedures may be necessary to open up the esophagus (i.e., laparoscopic fundoplication), although this is rare. If your GERD doesn’t improve with the above methods, you might consider getting a referral to see a gastroenterologist (a doctor specializing in diseases of the gastrointestinal system). 

Are there any risks associated with GERD? 

Not surprisingly, GERD can lead to complications if left untreated. Complications can range from mild to life threatening, including damage to the esophagus, ulcers, bleeding, pneumonia, and even cancer. 

So, if you do develop GERD, how can you tell if it is serious? Many times, GERD won’t cause any symptoms at all. That is why it is important to monitor yourself closely after starting your e-cigarette habit, especially if you are experiencing heartburn or indigestion. Symptoms can come and go quickly, so you need to be vigilant about noticing symptoms and seeking medical care right away. 

Because GERD can sometimes lead to complications, it’s important to know what to do if you develop symptoms. For example, if you begin to feel chest pain or trouble breathing, call 911 immediately. If you experience shortness of breath or difficulty swallowing, take an aspirin, drink plenty of water, and contact your doctor immediately. 

Finally, it is very important to understand that GERD is only one potential side effect of vaping. Some of the other possible side effects include weight gain, nausea, dry mouth, headaches, skin rashes, and dizziness. It is also important to know that not all users will experience these side effects, and that some users will never experience any negative side effects whatsoever.