A woman issued a stark warning about the dangers of vaping, after her own health scare left her stunned.
Under the username @emmakay60, Emma Kay posted a TikTok video detailing her harrowing experience with e-cigarettes. Despite years of vaping, it was a visit to her GP that brought a shocking revelation.
The clip has since exploded online, sparking widespread alarm over the potential risks associated with vaping, which experts have long cautioned against.
In a caption overlaying the footage, Emma issued a candid caution, writing: “Strictly making this for awareness. Vaped for nearly seven years, and didn’t give a s**t because I wasn’t seeing damage.
WARNING: Below video may contain offensive language…
“Went to the doctor today, and got a chest X-ray, which showed ‘cuffs’ or holes and severe damage to my lungs due to vaping. This is your sign to stop. I ignored this until it got this bad.”
Since being uploaded, Emma’s video racked up over 4 million views, with many expressing shock at the extent of the damage caused by vaping. The comments section also became a space for others to share their struggles and successes in quitting vaping.
One viewer shared a helpful tip for those looking to quit, writing: “For anyone struggling, I vaped for almost 10 years and it felt impossible. Then I read/listened to ‘The Easy Way’ by Alan Carr on Audible, specifically the vaping one. Hope it can help someone else.”
Another added: “Two weeks vape free and I’m so thankful I’m on my journey to healthier lungs.”
Echoing the sentiment, a third person commented: “I just decided to quit today, and then I see this video. It’s a sign and I’m sticking with it this time, I swear.”
While the NHS acknowledges that vaping nicotine is much less harmful than smoking, it’s recommended as an aid for quitting smoking only for adult smokers.
Though not entirely without harm, vaping is seen as a means to reduce exposure to the multitude of toxins found in cigarettes, which can lead to cancer, lung disease and heart conditions.
Making the switch from smoking to vaping can significantly cut down the intake of potentially cancer-causing toxins and other harmful substances.
Despite its benefits for those looking to quit smoking, there are still risks associated with vaping, and it is advised that non-smokers and individuals below 18 years of age should avoid starting it.