Discover the latest in health: evidence‑based wellness tips, medical breakthroughs, nutrition guidance, fitness insights, and expert advice for a healthier, happier life.
A young British woman revealed that she had a respiratory disease that might be fatal, following a year and a half of “addiction” to electronic cigarettes (vaping).
Abby Flynn, 20, said she developed bronchiolitis obstructive, or what is known as “popcorn lung”, a condition that might make her dependent on ventilators for the rest of her life.
According to the details reported by the British newspaper “Daily Mail”, Abby was not a smoker before the summer of 2021, when she decided to inhale “vape” as an experiment.
But soon the young woman fell into the clutches of electronic cigarettes, as she smoked a full cartridge every day, equivalent to 140 cigarettes per week.
“I started vaping regarding a year and a half ago. I had never smoked before so I went straight to vaping,” the young woman said, believing she might have quit at any time.
But she admitted that the e-cigarette “was constantly associated with it. While driving and even while sleeping.”
Recently, Abby woke up to a respiratory crisis and was taken to the hospital immediately, where tests revealed that she had “popcorn lung”.
She added, “They asked me if I vaped. They said I have a lot of air pockets in my lungs, which is what they call popcorn lung.”
of serious illness
• “Popcorn lung” is a rare type of lung disease caused by inflammation of the bronchi, the smallest air passages in the lungs, where scarring appears.
• Scientists believe that there may be a possible link between the disease and a chemical called diacetyl, but more research is needed to verify this link.
• Diacetyl is traditionally found in e-cigarette tobacco, but the substance is banned in Britain under the European Union’s Tobacco Products Directive 2016.
• In addition to toxic chemicals, severe respiratory infections and autoimmune diseases can also cause “popcorn lung”.
• Cancer Research UK says that no confirmed cases of “popcorn lung” have been reported in people who use e-cigarettes.
• People with this disease need lifelong care to control their symptoms, and they are advised to avoid polluted air, cigarette smoke, and contact with patients.