Chances are you’re unfamiliar with the term ‘JUULing’ (we were too, until recently). A JUUL is an e-cigarette that looks very similar to a USB drive. Unlike a traditional cigarette, the discreet smoking device produces a sweet and fruity smell. Because JUULs don’t look or smell like cigarettes teens are able to get away with smoking just about anywhere.
How does it work?
The JUUL device heats a pod full of nicotine juice, creating a vapor, which the user then inhales.
Is it dangerous?
According to the JUUL website, each JUUL pod contains approximately the same amount of nicotine as a pack of cigarettes. The concentration of nicotine is more than double the amount of other vaping products, which results in a stronger, faster nicotine smoking experience.
“Teenage brains are still developing, so they’re uniquely vulnerable to addiction. Nicotine is very addictive, and exposure to nicotine in adolescence has been shown to have long-term impacts on brain development. It may affect teens’ behavior, concentration, memory and their ability to learn.
There are other health concerns for young people who vape. According to a study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care, adolescents who use e-cigarettes are twice as likely to suffer respiratory symptoms such as a persistent cough, bronchitis, congestion and phlegm as those who don’t. And there’s some evidence that shows teen vapers are more likely to take up smoking tobacco cigarettes than non-vapers.
Also, a lot of teenagers have no idea what’s in their vape. In a study sponsored by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, when high schoolers were asked what they believed was in the last product they vaped, most said “just flavoring.” As for the Juul, some teens are filling the pods with other substances, which is even more dangerous.” -Offspring.lifehacker.com
Increased thirst, nosebleeds, and a sudden sensitivity to caffeine are all signs associated with e-cigarette use. Be sure to maintain and open dialogue with you teenager and clearly explain the risks of smoking.