Teen vaping is unsafe but harder to detect than the use of cigarettes or other drugs. Vape use is also growing and has become more accessible in recent years. Yet, as vaping facts demonstrate, there are risks to continued use. For that reason, parents who see the signs of vaping in their son or daughter should take action to get them help. At Venture Academy, we recommend seeking out help before the side effects of vaping impact your child’s health.
Key Signs of Teen Vaping
Teen vaping can be hard to detect initially, but most parents will find some signs of vaping use if they consider their child’s behaviour and emotions. Some parents may not have a clue their child is engaging in this type of use until they find vaping devices and cartridges in their homes. These devices have many small components, which can easily be lost. That’s just one sign. Others may include:
- Changes in academic performance that’s unexplained
- Mood swings, especially throughout the day
- Increased instances of agitation and anxiety
- Hiding items or needing money to purchase vaping products
- Increased need to sleep
- No longer using caffeine – vaping use typically provides access to stimulants
In addition to this, many parents may notice changes in health. This may include instances of shortness of breath, significant, unexplained weight loss, and skin damage. Teen vaping also increases the risk of nosebleeds, nausea and vomiting, mouth sores, and constant coughing.
Vaping Facts – What Are the Side Effects of Vaping?
Parents may recognize the signs of vaping from above but may be unsure if they need to get their teen help for this type of use. There are risks to using these products. Chronic use of vaping products can lead to a substance use disorder. Many of these products contain nicotine. Nicotine is an addictive stance that’s no less risky in vaping products than it is in cigarettes.
Another key risk factor is the damage to the lungs that vape use causes. Some manufacturers do not disclose all of the chemicals used in these products. Others do, but they also use chemicals like Vitamin E that can damage the lungs themselves. There is an increased risk of developing popcorn lung or pneumonia in these individuals.
Yet another health risk from teen vaping is the unknown. These products can be made at home or tampered with so much that the damage they may cause is unknown. Products bought over the internet are less regulated and harder to monitor in terms of what’s included. Yet, with each breath, a teen is taking in more and more of these substances.
What to Do About Vape Use
Parents with teen vaping worries can find support at Venture Academy. With one-on-one support from a group of multidisciplinary professionals, parents and teens alike will learn how to move beyond the use of these potentially dangerous products. When the signs of vaping are present, reach out to our team right away for support to change your son or daughter’s behaviours. Let us provide the help you need through programs and services such as:
- 30-day assessment and intervention
- Behavioural treatment
- Drug and alcohol treatment
- School programs and education
- Electronic addiction services
When You Need Help, Call Venture Academy
The signs of vaping are worrisome because you don’t know what it is they are taking into their bodies. Teen vaping is a fast-growing risk in many communities. And, with so many inaccurate vaping facts, even some parents have engaged in vape use, believing it to be the safer option. Before experiencing the side effects of vaping, get your teen help at Venture Academy. Call us at 866.762.2211 or connect with us online for immediate help.
