Eight lesser-known vaping health risks as non-smoker users rise

Marie-Claire Dorking
·Contributor
Updated ·6-min read
There are over a million previous non-smokers who are now vaping. (Getty Images)
There are over a million previous non-smokers who are now vaping. (Getty Images)

We tend to think of people taking up vaping as a way to quit smoking, but shocking new statistics have revealed that around one million adults in England now vape - despite not having regularly used cigarettes previously.

The research, published in Lancet Public Health, suggests there's been a sevenfold increase in the number of non-smokers taking up vaping since 2021 when disposable e-cigarettes first started to grow in popularity.

This rise was largely driven by young adults, with an estimated one in seven 18 to 24-year-olds (14%) who never regularly smoked now using e-cigarettes.

The study looked at survey data collected between 2016 and 2024 from 153,073 adults (18 and over) in England, of whom 94,107 had never regularly smoked tobacco.

Before 2021, the proportion of those who vaped, but had never smoked regularly, in England was low, at an average of 0.5% between 2016 and 2020, but this increased to 3.5% by April 2024.

Whilst vaping is generally considered less harmful than smoking, there are still side effects. Recent research found more than 43% of adults are not aware how vaping can impact their health.

Vaping can decrease saliva production, resulting in dry mouth and throat, which raises the risk of cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.

"Additionally, vaping may cause gum inflammation and increase the likelihood of periodontal disease, regardless of whether nicotine is present," Dr Bhavini Shah, from LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor, says. "Vaping can also stain your teeth as while vapes don’t contain tar, the artificial flavourings found in vape liquids can trap stains in the enamel."

The propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin in e-liquids can trigger nausea and vomiting, particularly in those sensitive to these ingredients. "Some vapers may experience increased acidity, leading to heartburn and acid reflux, likely caused by chemicals irritating the stomach lining," Dr Shah explains.

“High amounts of nicotine are also responsible for nausea, especially if you are new to vaping or have recently increased your intake, as it’s a shock to your system. Many users may also experience dizziness if they vape consistently over a short period of time."

There are many potential side effects of vaping. (Getty Images)
Sleep and gastrointestinal problems are other potential lesser-known symptoms of vaping. (Getty Images)

As a stimulant, nicotine can disrupt sleep patterns, often leading to insomnia or poor sleep quality.

"Research has suggested that for those with sleep apnea, vaping can further aggravate the condition by impacting the respiratory system," Dr Shah explains. "In fact, a recent study conducted by the University of Surrey found that the sleep quality of vape users was significantly lower than that of their non-vaping peers, with more than three-quarters displaying symptoms of insomnia."

The chemicals in e-liquids can cause skin irritation, leading to acne or allergic dermatitis, particularly around the mouth.

"Vaping can also dehydrate the skin, resulting in a dull complexion, wrinkles, or worsening of existing skin conditions," Dr Shah continues. "It’s vital to know that the nicotine in e-cigarettes can constrict blood vessels and reduce blood flow to the skin, preventing essential nutrients from reaching skin cells efficiently and contributing to premature ageing. Alongside this, various vape chemicals trigger skin inflammation and irritation, resulting in blemishes and breakouts."

Experts say vaping could have an impact on skin. (Getty Images)
Vaping could have an impact on skin. (Getty Images)

Maintaining an erection requires a strong, steady flow of blood into the spongy tissue and muscles of the penis. "As nicotine causes blood vessels to constrict, it reduces blood flow to all the organs, including the penis.," Dr Shah explains. "This suggests that men who vape are at higher risk of experiencing erectile dysfunction (ED).

"An American study examining the link between vaping and erectile dysfunction found that men who vaped were 2.4 times more likely to report erectile dysfunction than men who had never vaped. This may be because of nicotine’s effect on blood flow and in turn blood supply to the penis. However, this link is yet to be proven, and more research needs to be carried out," Dr Shah adds.

While many may feel an immediate high shortly after vaping, due to increased adrenaline raising the heart rate, respiration and blood pressure, evidence suggests that long-term nicotine addiction can exacerbate anxiety and depression, particularly in younger individuals.

“Nicotine in tobacco and e-cigarettes is highly addictive," Dr Shah explains. "Over time, the brain gets used to it, leading to cravings, difficulty quitting, and needing more to feel the same. Quitting can also cause withdrawal symptoms like irritability, anxiety, trouble sleeping, difficulty concentrating, hunger, and nicotine cravings."

Could vaping be impacting your mental health. (Getty Images)
Vaping could also have an impact on mental health. (Getty Images)

Dr Shah says the high nicotine concentration in some e-liquids can pose a risk of nicotine poisoning, leading to symptoms like dizziness, an elevated heart rate, and severe nausea.

"Those who vape using high nicotine concentrations consistently are more likely to experience symptoms," she explains. "Any amount of nicotine ingestion has the potential to lead to toxicity and adverse effects. However, the amount of nicotine necessary for poisoning depends on the form of ingestion and a person’s physical state."

Dr Shah says the treatment for nicotine poisoning will depend on the side-effects and the amount of nicotine ingested. "It’s important to seek medical attention if you’re concerned," she adds.

Certain flavourings, preservatives and additives in e-liquids can trigger allergic reactions in some people, resulting in symptoms such as dermatitis, swelling, or respiratory distress.

"Propylene glycol (PG) is a synthetic alcohol which can trigger reactions in those who are sensitive to it," Dr Shah explains. "It is often found in cosmetics, deodorants, and even some foods. However, it is also a base component of e-liquid and is usually mixed with vegetable glycerine. Individuals sensitised to propylene glycol can often develop dermatitis if there is skin contact."

If you're concerned that you're experiencing any side effects from vaping, it's important to stop using the product and consult your GP as soon as possible. They can assess your symptoms and decide the best course of action.

Additional reporting PA.

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