Lung disease linked to electronic cigarette use: What is EVALI, what are its symptoms, and how is it treated?
EVALI disease has recently begun to be seen in Turkey as well. So, what is EVALI disease and what are its symptoms? Here is what you need to know about EVALI...
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EVALI (e-cigarette and vaping use-associated lung injury) is a lung condition associated with the use of electronic cigarettes.
First identified in 2019 in an American student, EVALI disease has recently been appearing in our country as well.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF EVALI?
- Shortness of breath
- Cough
- Chest pain
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Weight loss
- Nausea and vomiting
WHAT ARE THE RISK FACTORS FOR EVALI?
- Electronic cigarette use
- Use of e-cigarette liquids containing THC or vitamin E acetate
- Young age
- Lung diseases such as asthma or COPD
HOW IS EVALI DIAGNOSED?
- Your doctor will ask about your medical history and symptoms.
- They will perform a physical examination.
- They will request imaging tests such as a chest X-ray and computed tomography (CT) scan.
- They will request blood tests and lung function tests.
HOW IS EVALI TREATED?
- Treatment varies depending on the severity of the symptoms.
- In mild cases, rest and increased fluid intake are recommended.
- In more severe cases, oxygen therapy, bronchodilators, and medications such as steroids may be used.
- In some cases, patients may need to be placed on a ventilator.
- EVALI is a preventable disease. Not using electronic cigarettes is the best way to prevent EVALI.
- If you use electronic cigarettes, avoid liquids containing THC or vitamin E acetate.