Hannah Roth, a 30-year-old mom from Tennessee, started vaping during the COVID-19 pandemic to cope with stress from lockdowns. However, this habit nearly killed her as she developed severe pneumonia and lung damage. Roth began hearing a popping sound in her lungs, had a high fever, and was told by a doctor that her lungs resembled those of an 80-year-old or a decade-long smoker.
Roth had never smoked before she started vaping four years ago. She quickly became addicted and was vaping every hour of the day. Last month, while at work, she started experiencing chills, a high fever, and chest pain, which led her to seek medical attention. Initially diagnosed with the flu, she was eventually hospitalized after an X-ray revealed an obstruction in her lung.
Unaware of the potential side effects of vaping, Roth was shocked to learn about the damage it had caused to her lungs. She discovered that vaping can lead to ‘tree budding,’ a condition indicating the deterioration of the lungs usually associated with heavy smoking. Determined to recover, Roth quit vaping immediately at her doctor’s recommendation to avoid further damage to her lungs.
For Roth, the decision to stop vaping was driven by her desire to stay healthy for her two sons, aged 7 and 10. Although she still experiences cravings, Roth has found support in chewing gum to manage them. By quitting vaping, she has not only seen improvements in her health but is also saving money that she would have spent on buying vape products regularly. Roth now advocates for others to quit vaping or avoid starting altogether to prevent potential health risks.
The doctor’s warning to Roth about the serious consequences of continuing to vape served as a wake-up call for her. She emphasizes the importance of understanding that even if someone believes they have control over their vaping habits, addiction can still occur. Roth’s experience serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the dangers of vaping and the potential harm it can cause to one’s health, particularly in the context of the ongoing pandemic. By sharing her story, Roth hopes to raise awareness and encourage others to prioritize their health by avoiding vaping altogether.
