“Vaper’s tongue” is the effect of smoking e-cigarettes. Get to know its symptoms

“Vaper’s tongue” is a colloquial term for the condition in which a person smoking e-cigarettes has an impaired sense of taste. He is unable to recognize what the liquids he uses while vaping taste like. There is not much scientific information about this condition yet. Experts, however, sound the alarm and appeal to lovers of electronic cigarettes to stop using this type of device.

“Vaper’s tongue” – causes and symptoms

The causes of “vaper’s tongue” are not fully understood. There are many theories explaining this phenomenon. One of the hypotheses is that the compounds contained in liquids are responsible for the impaired sense of taste. The liquids used in e-cigarettes contain many potentially harmful substances. In this case, it is not only about nicotine, but also propylene glycol, benzoic acid, vegetable glycerin, and various types of flavors (for example, cinnamic aldehyde, which is responsible for the cinnamon flavor of the smoke from the vaporizer).
Dr. Halpern-Felsher, who studies the impact of electronic cigarettes on human health, notes:

It’s conceivable that chemicals in e-cigarettes, especially flavors and other additives, could cause oral health problems, but we don’t know much about it yet.

“Vaper’s tongue” manifests itself by impaired taste sensation (weakening or even complete loss of sense). This condition is usually temporary and goes away after a few days. However, it may recur and persist for a long time. Much depends on how often a person uses e-cigarettes.

Are e-cigarettes safe?

E-cigarettes are advertised as a healthier alternative to traditional cigarettes. However, many experts have serious doubts about this. It is not entirely known how the substances contained in liquids affect the human body. It should be noted that these fluids are heated and change their state (from liquid to gas), which increases their potential toxicity. Flavors added to liquids, such as menthol, are particularly dangerous to health. It has been proven to impair lung function and damage organs.

Smoking e-cigarettes can also cause nausea and worsen oral health. Addiction promotes the multiplication of harmful bacteria and the formation of inflammation within the gums and tongue. According to the American Lung Association, electronic cigarettes are just as toxic as traditional cigarettes and should not be used.