Teen Hospitalized with Wet Lung Disease Caused by Vaping

Sep 10,2018

Despite being touted as a “safer” alternative to regular cigarettes, e-cigarettes are constantly making headlines as new potential side effects and risks are discovered. A case study published in Pediatrics shed light on the newest hazard linked to e-cigarettes: wet lung disease.

According to the case study, an 18-year-old had been vaping for three weeks when she began experiencing symptoms, including chest pain and difficulty breathing, that sent her to the hospital. At the hospital, the teen experienced respiratory failure and had to be put on a respirator while doctors drained fluid from her lungs. She was diagnosed with wet lung disease, also known as hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Fortunately, doctors were able to treat the patient, and she was released after five days.

What is Wet Lung Disease?

How does wet lung disease develop? The lungs become inflamed due to an allergic reaction to something being inhaled. Initial symptoms of wet lung disease include fever, chills, coughing, shortness of breath and body aches. The symptoms may appear flu-like, but the increase in coughing and other lung-related symptoms indicate that it is a respiratory issue.

Despite an increasing number of reports revealing the dangerous side effects of electronic cigarettes, they continue to be a popular option, particularly among the younger population. Parents and pediatricians should make it a priority to discuss the risks of vaping with their kids.

“E-cigarette companies would have consumers believe their products are a ‘safe’ alternative to smoking cigarettes, but the reality is there is still much unknown about these devices,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured by a defective product and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today at (760) 777-7777 for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, El Centro, and Yucca Valley, and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.