Illnesses Associated with JUULs and E-Cigarettes

When they first hit the market a decade ago, e-cigarettes were hailed as a healthier alternative to traditional cigarettes. Unfortunately, JUUL and other manufacturers are facing backlash for initially failing to print warning labels on their products. Within the past year, at least a dozen people have died and over 800 have been injured from e-cigarettes.

While these stories have dominated headlines, many people are still uncertain about the exact illnesses associated with JUULs e-cigarettes. For more information about how these cases have played out, it is best to talk to a West Palm Beach JUUL vaping injury attorney from our firm.

Lung Diseases

Lung diseases have been commonly reported in association with e-cigarette usage. Many individuals have been hospitalized with lung diseases such as obstructive pulmonary disease and acute respiratory distress syndrome. Patients suffering from these illnesses typically complain of chest pain and shortness of breath. Some have also reported nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, fever, and sudden weight loss.

Acute respiratory distress syndrome is a particularly dangerous, life-threatening condition that causes fluid to build up in the lungs. It also prevents oxygen from properly circulating in the bloodstream, which can interfere with certain bodily functions.

Seizures

Another serious health condition associated with vaping is seizures. Since April of 2019, there have been 90 reported cases of seizures after e-cigarette use. In total, the FDA has received 127 reports of seizures associated with vaping since 2010. Additionally, some e-cigarette users have also reported fainting and tremors.

Unlike the lung diseases caused by vaping, researchers do not yet understand how e-cigarettes lead to seizures. For example, there is ongoing research being done to determine if pre-existing conditions could make individuals that vape more susceptible to seizures.

Cardiac Problems

The liquid used in JUUL and other e-cigarettes has been shown to negatively affect endothelial cells, which line the inside of blood vessels. E-liquid has this effect when it does not contain any nicotine, indicating an ingredient in the liquid itself is to blame. When e-liquid is inhaled over an extended period of time, it can cause those cells to become so damaged that they start to malfunction. This is very dangerous, as it can lead to a heart attack, stroke, or other health issues.

Untimely Passing

Tragically, 12 people in the US have died as a result of electronic smoking devices, with one of those deaths occurring in Florida. It is believed that there have been many more than that. Healthcare professionals have likely not linked vaping with many deaths until now because the trend is still relatively new. Sadly, there are likely also going to be many more deaths caused by vaping in the future.

Ask a West Palm Beach Attorney about Illnesses Associated with JUULs and E-Cigarettes

Illnesses associated with JUULs and e-cigarettes are not only painful and decrease a person’s quality of life, but they can also be expensive to treat. If you have sustained an illness or injury after using an e-cigarette, you may be eligible for compensation to help cover the losses you have suffered.

These types of cases are very new and therefore very complex. A West Palm Beach attorney from our firm can guide you through the process and give you the best chance of success with your claim, so call today to get started.