Vaping might seem to be a much less dangerous substitute to conventional smoking, however it might probably trigger severe injury to the lungs. Unfortunately, e-cigarettes are gaining recognition with every passing yr amongst youth, a disturbing pattern which may wreak havoc with folks’s lungs. Vaping can expose one to nicotine, ultrafine particles, flavourings resembling diacetyl, cancer-causing chemical substances, heavy metals resembling nickel, tin, and lead, which may be dangerous to respiratory well being. Popcorn lung, or bronchiolitis obliterans, is a uncommon lung illness, which may trigger injury to the tiny airways in lungs and might result in scar tissue formation, blocking airways. People with this situation have signs like coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. There is not any treatment to popcorn lung because the injury accomplished to lungs can’t be reversed however the signs may be managed, and additional injury may be prevented. (Also learn: Indians suffered worse publish Covid lung injury than others, says research; how you can enhance lung perform)
Popcorn lung, or bronchiolitis obliterans, is a uncommon lung illness that harms the small air sacs and passages within the lungs, generally known as bronchioles(Freepik)
What is popcorn lung?
“Popcorn lung, or bronchiolitis obliterans, is a rare lung disease that harms the small air sacs and passages in the lungs, known as bronchioles. This damage causes the formation of scar tissue, which can block the airways and make it hard to breathe. This condition gained attention when it was associated with workers in a microwave popcorn plant, particularly those involved in flavouring the popcorn. Also vaping is another important cause along with other conditions like connective tissue diseases. important component linked to the development of bronchiolitis obliterans has been found as the inhalation of diacetyl, a chemical used to provide a buttery flavour,” says Dr Arunesh Kumar, Sr Consultant & Head – Respiratory Medicine, Paras Health, Gurugram.
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“As e-cigarette usage continues to rise, it can cause various lung diseases, including bronchiolitis obliterans (BO) or popcorn lung. You will be shocked to know that diacetyl found in e-cigarettes can lead to inflammation and permanent scarring in the airways, resulting in breathing difficulties related to popcorn lung. This is how vaping can further impact your lungs. Lipoid pneumonia caused by vaping is different from typical pneumonia and happens when fatty acids enter the lungs instead of an infection. Inhaling oily substances from e-liquid triggers inflammation in the lungs, and one may experience symptoms such as persistent cough, difficulty breathing, and coughing up blood or blood-tinged mucus. Primary spontaneous pneumothorax, or collapsed lung, occurs when there is a hole in the lung that allows oxygen to leak out. Smoking and vaping have been linked to an increased risk of rupturing these blisters, leading to lung collapse,” says Dr Samir Garde, Director of Dept of Pulmonology and Lung Transplant, Global Hospitals, Parel.
When heated and inhaled, diethyl has been associated to lung injury to the tiny airways, which may end up in scar tissue formation and subsequent airway blockage. Although popcorn lung is rare, those that have it might expertise extreme signs like coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
Who’s in danger?
People who would possibly get popcorn lung embrace these round diacetyl or different dangerous chemical substances, those that had a lung transplant, these with severe respiratory infections, and people with autoimmune illnesses, says Dr Arunesh.
Dr. Ashish Kumar Prakash, Consultant, Respiratory & Sleep Medicine, Medanta, Gurugram shares the widespread causes of popcorn lung:
Chemical publicity: Inhaling dangerous chemical substances is the first offender. Diacetyl, as soon as utilized in buttery flavourings, was initially the primary concern. However, different chemical substances like acetaldehyde, formaldehyde, and acrolein, present in numerous settings like meals processing, chemical manufacturing, and e-cigarette vaping, may also contribute.
Inflammatory response: Sometimes, lung irritation triggered by numerous elements, together with chemical publicity or autoimmune illnesses, can injury and scar the small airways over time, resulting in popcorn lung.
What are the indicators and signs of popcorn lung?
“The symptoms of BO such as coughing, wheezing, chest pain, and shortness of breath can be managed with appropriate treatments. It is important to consult the doctor on noticing the symptoms without any delay. Lipoid pneumonia caused by vaping is different from typical pneumonia and happens when fatty acids enter the lungs instead of an infection. Inhaling oily substances from e-liquid triggers inflammation in the lungs, and one may experience symptoms such as persistent cough, difficulty breathing, and coughing up blood or blood-tinged mucus. Primary spontaneous pneumothorax, or collapsed lung, occurs when there is a hole in the lung that allows oxygen to leak out. Smoking and vaping have been linked to an increased risk of rupturing these blisters, leading to lung collapse,” says Dr Samir.
According to Harvard Health, the widespread signs of popcorn lung embrace wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing that’s not associated to an bronchial asthma assault or chilly. These sensations usually worsen with time and might worsen when you’re bodily energetic. Early detection of those signs is important for an environment friendly analysis and course of care.
Diagnosis
Dr Ashish says early analysis is essential for managing popcorn lung successfully.
Doctors usually contemplate:
Medical historical past and bodily examination: Discussing signs and potential publicity to dangerous substances.
Lung perform exams: Measuring lung capability and airflow to evaluate lung perform.
Forced oscillometry (FOT) or Impulse oscillometry can be one of many new diagnostic modalities to search out out the small airway illness.
Imaging exams: Chest X-rays or CT scans to visualise potential abnormalities.
Bronchoscopy: Inserting a versatile tube with a digicam via the airways to look at and gather tissue samples for biopsy.
Treatment or administration of popcorn lung
Dr Arunesh says popcorn lung may be managed with numerous strategies from medication to oxygen remedy.
- Anti-inflammatory medication like prednisone to scale back swelling.
- Breathing aids via inhalers, like albuterol.
- Oxygen remedy.
- In very extreme instances, a lung transplant may be thought of, however it’s solely advisable as a final resort.
“When it comes to treating vaping-related conditions such as popcorn lung, early detection and intervention are crucial. While there is no specific cure for popcorn lung, treatment options focus on managing symptoms and preventing further damage. In severe cases, lung transplantation may be considered as a last resort. One promising approach in the treatment of popcorn lung is pulmonary rehabilitation, which includes exercise, education, and emotional support to improve lung function and overall quality of life. Avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals found in e-cigarettes and other vaping products will prevent further damage to the lungs. It is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with these products and seek medical help if they experience any respiratory symptoms. By prioritizing lung health and making informed choices about vaping habits, one can reduce their risk of developing popcorn lung and other serious health complications,” says Dr Garde.
Source: www.hindustantimes.com
