E-cigarettes (Vapes) are devices that heat a liquid into an aerosol, which a person breathes in.
The aerosol produced by an e-cigarette usually has flavoring, nicotine, and other harmful and potentially harmful chemicals in it. Nicotine is a highly addictive substance.
Brain development continues until about age 25, and nicotine exposure can harm the developing brain.
Youth use of nicotine can lead to nicotine addiction and may increase the risk for future addiction to other substances.
Nicotine exposure during adolescence can harm the parts of the brain that control attention, learning, mood, and impulse control.
Youth might vape to deal with stress or anxiety, creating a cycle of nicotine dependence. But nicotine addiction can also be a source of stress.
Some youth who use e-cigarettes or cigarettes also report symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Nicotine withdrawal symptoms include irritability, restlessness, feeling anxious or depressed, trouble sleeping, problems concentrating, and craving nicotine.
Many people think vaping is harmless.
Here are some resources to learn about the dangers of vaping.