The American Lung Association has noticed an increase in people who use e-cigarettes, also known as vaping. There’s no doubt that we’ve seen more and more vape shops popping up across the Valley!
While some argue that e-cigarettes are healthier than traditional cigarettes, there are still a lot of unknowns surrounding e-cigarettes. Because of this, the FDA has not issued regulations or guidelines about the health effects they may have. However, we are starting to see some trends in their effects on pain.
While not officially listed as a side effect, many e-cigarette users have reported experiencing neck pain and headaches after vaping, especially after the first three months of use. After further investigation, it’s been found that muscle aches are, in fact, a recognized side effect.
Since reports of pain from e-cigarettes are just now coming to light, we do not know the exact cause, but it is suggested that the propylene glycol (PG) is metabolized into lactic acid and causes pain. This particular fact isn’t actually new information – studies have shown that lactic acid may be responsible for muscle pain in fibromyalgia patients.
While this seems to be a popular theory, others suggest that neck pain and headaches could be the result of dehydration. Another theory is that, since symptoms are usually felt among people who recently started vaping, some may be able to attribute the headaches and pain as withdrawal symptoms from quitting cigarettes.
The advice and information contained in this article are for educational purposes only and are not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
