Category: Health Tips & Health Literacy

Stress – Understanding and Managing

Posted on

Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, aka Dr. BCW. Today I want to talk about stress – understanding it and managing it. Stress is a ubiquitous presence in our lives and a common topic in health forums. Stress manifests diversely for each individual, depending on various factors, situations, and durations. It can evoke emotions like unease, anxiety, and helplessness, which can interfere with our sleep, appetite, energy levels and our life in general.

The Biological Impact

Extended exposure to stress activates our body’s fight or flight system— the autonomic nervous system— releasing an overabundance of stress hormones like cortisol. This constant exposure disrupts nearly all of the body’s processes and paves the way for an array of mental and physical health issues like anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, and even difficulties with memory and concentration.

Acknowledging Stress

It’s important to acknowledge the stressors in our lives and identify the sources. Recognizing the feelings of stress is the first step towards investing in the holistic health of our mind and body. Simple actions like taking a break from social media, reading a book, or indulging in enjoyable activities can help alleviate stress, even if momentarily.

The Value of Self-Investment

Investing time in activities that bring joy can uplift your mood and significantly reduce overall stress. It’s crucial to discover joy in the daily nuances of life and to prioritize self-care and balanced living. Regular exercise, nutritious meals, and maintaining a balance in social engagements are pivotal in managing stress and enhancing mental well-being.

Prioritize Sleep

Sleep is crucial to mental and physical well-being, and its deficiency is linked to irritability, focus problems, and increased risks of mental health disorders like depression and anxiety. Thus, it’s vital to prioritize sleep to maintain a healthy balance between the mind and body.

Seeking Help is a Strength

If stress becomes overwhelming, seeking professional help is not a sign of weakness but rather a strength. Reach out to organizations like the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 for guidance, support, and personalized strategies. Managing stress and mental health is a continual journey, so be patient, allow growth, and continually monitor your mental state.

Conclusion

Remember, managing stress effectively enables you to navigate life’s challenges more smoothly. There isn’t a universal solution for managing stress, as everyone’s needs and situations are different. It’s crucial to explore different stress management techniques and mental wellness strategies and see what works best for you.

Remember to invest in yourself, maintain a balanced lifestyle, connect with others, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help when needed. With self-patience and consistent effort, cultivating mental resilience becomes an attainable goal, allowing you to face life’s uncertainties with a balanced mind.

Stay informed and prioritize your health!

– Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

 

Check out this video from Dr. Curry-Winchell @ Beyond Clinical Walls to learn more:

 

New Menopause Studies

Posted on

Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, aka Dr. BCW. Today I want to talk about some new Menopause studies and the insights they are providing about the impacts of Menopause on Black women in America.  But first let’s talk about Menopause in general.

Menopause: Embracing Change and Wellness

Let’s dive into a topic that impacts countless individuals: Menopause. This natural phase initiates as hormones like estrogen undergo a significant decline. In medical terms, Menopause isn’t officially recognized until a year elapses between menstrual cycles.

Understanding the Symptoms

Common symptoms of Menopause encompass weight gain, fatigue, hot flashes, memory issues, sleep disruptions, mood changes, and discomfort during intercourse. Interestingly, some patients perceive the loss of their period as a part of their identity. Remember that everyone experiences health changes differently, so you may not experience any symptoms at all.
While it typically occurs between ages 45 and 55, it can vary due to factors such as family history, surgeries, and health conditions. Also there are also some medications that could cause an early onset of Menopause. However, what are new Menopause Studies saying?

Diversity in Experience

Interestingly, new Menopause studies indicate Black women experience Menopause approximately 8.5 months earlier than White women. While it’s not completely understood why at this time, it is believed that social determinants and systemic racism in certain healthcare practices could be a contributing factors.

Health Implications

Menopause carries far-reaching health implications, including an elevated risk of heart disease, stroke, and osteoporosis. Of course, osteoporosis is a condition that weakens bones, potentially leading to an increased risk of bone fractures.

Navigating Solutions

Various treatment paths exist for Menopause, including hormone replacement therapy, a menopause-conscious diet, and self-care routines. However, each choice accompanies potential risks, especially hormone replacement therapy. It is always recommended to consult your healthcare provider before embarking on a new treatment, particularly in the case of something as impactful as Menopause. Of course they may also have updates from new Menopause studies that could be helpful as well.

Empowerment Through Support

Remember, you’re not alone in your Menopause journey. Advocating for your well-being and seeking medical assistance when necessary is key. In closing, talk with your family and friends about Menopause. Open discussions can help those who might be too embarrassed to ask for help find the support they need.

Stay informed and prioritize your health!

– Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

 

To see what Dr. Curry-Winchell had to say about new Menopause Studies on Beyond Clinical Walls check out.

Voting Impacts Health?

Posted on

Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, aka Dr. BCW. Today, let’s delve into a topic often underestimated in its impact on our well-being: voting. Some of you are thinking, “Voting impacts health?” According to the CDC as much as 80% of our health is shaped by “social determinants of health”? These are often directly impacted by local and federal laws, health policies, minimum wages, and environmental protections that directly impact health outcomes. This is why voter registration is so important.
https://www.cdc.gov/pcd/issues/2021/20_0569.htm

Your Vote, Your Health: Unveiling the Impact

Voting isn’t merely about selecting representatives. It is also about endorsing policies that greatly influence our collective and individual well-being. It’s about standing up for a healthier, more equitable environment that benefits everyone. Your vote can impact the health of your community through influence on social programs, environmental issues, and health regulations. Do not underestimate the power these factors have on your health and the health of your community. Also, The American Medical Association underscores the profound link between voting and health, recognizing that “voting is a social determinant of health and significantly contributes to the analyses of other social determinants of health.”
https://policysearch.ama-assn.org/policyfinder/detail/voting?uri=%2FAMADoc%2FHOD.xml-h-440.805.xml

Barriers and Disparities

Sadly, certain communities face barriers to voting. For instance, communities of color, young people, rural residents, and disabled Americans often encounter obstacles that hamper their access to the voting process. Of course, these very same groups are often disproportionately affected by health disparities. To help improve health equity, we need to enable those facing barriers to use their vote to express their wishes.

The Power of Change

One group working to help underrepresented individuals vote is Vot-ER (https://vot-er.org). Vote-ER is a nonprofit on a mission for nonpartisan civic engagement within healthcare settings. Founded by Dr. Alister Martin, an emergency room physician. Vot-ER empowers healthcare professionals, clinical students, and medical institutions to champion voter registration and civic participation among patients and local communities. The National Voter Registration Act of 1993, which empowered the DMV, also grants hospitals the authority to conduct nonpartisan voter registration. Like voter registration at the DMV, healthcare settings possess a unique platform to promote civic engagement. By donning a simple badge, healthcare providers signify their readiness to assist patients with voter registration right in the hospital or clinic.

Your Role

Above all, incorporating nonpartisan voter registration and education into healthcare settings enables patients to participate actively in their civic responsibilities, ultimately influencing health-oriented policies. Voter readiness isn’t a sporadic effort tied to high-profile elections; it’s an ongoing commitment. If you’re a medical provider, social worker, or student in the health field, I invite you to join me in this movement. Obtain your free badge at https://vot-er.org/badge.

Whether you’re a healthcare professional or a patient, your voice matters. Take a moment now to register to vote or verify your voter registration status by visiting: https://drbcw.com/vote

Closing

In conclusion, we can forge healthier communities through a more vibrant democracy. Let’s channel the power of voting to shape a better future for ourselves and future generations. Above all, let’s make a lasting impact on our health and our future through voting.

Stay informed and prioritize your health!

– Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

 

Check out Dr. Curry-Winchell’s Beyond Clinical Walls video on this subject:

 

Cardiac Arrest and CPR

Posted on

Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, aka Dr. BCW. Today I want to discuss a critical condition, Cardiac Arrest, and the emergency treatment, CPR, that can be lifesaving. Cardiac arrest has been in heavy news rotation due to LeBron James’ son, Bronny James’ recent episode with cardiac arrest.

 

What is Cardiac Arrest?

Cardiac arrest is when the heart suddenly loses its ability to function, leading to a halt in blood circulation throughout the body. This can cause a person to gasp for air, lose consciousness, or stop breathing.

During a cardiac arrest, immediate action is crucial. Performing CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) or using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can be lifesaving by helping the heart re-establish a rhythm or heartbeat.

How do you perform CPR?

The American Heart Association recommends placing two hands, one on top of the other, centered on the chest, with shoulders directly over your hands and locked elbows. Perform chest compressions of at least two inches deep on each push at 100 compressions per minute. Allow the chest to return to normal after each compression.

A common question is whether rescue breaths should be given. Rescue breaths involve giving oxygen directly when someone can’t breathe on their own. The answer is “Yes.” The American Heart Association recommends rescue breathing with compressions.
Visit here for more: https://cpr.heart.org/

 

Is CPR Effective?

CPR can double or even triple the survival rates for individuals experiencing cardiac arrest. Studies have shown that the sooner CPR is performed, the better the chances of survival and the fewer complications survivors experience.

Sadly, a recent nationwide study by the American College of Cardiology found that Black and Hispanic individuals were 41% less likely than white individuals to receive CPR when suffering cardiac arrest in public. Moreover, Blacks and Hispanics were 26% less likely to receive CPR when cardiac arrest occurred at home.
Fro more please visit: https://www.acc.org/About-ACC/Press-Releases/2022/03/23/17/31/Racial-Minorities-Are-Less-Likely-to-Receive-CPR-When-They-Need-It

This disparity in access to CPR is concerning and emphasizes the importance of everyone learning the procedure. By knowing CPR, you hold the power to save someone’s life. You never know when you might find yourself in a situation where CPR could make a lifesaving difference for someone in need.

 

Conclusion

If you have the opportunity, please take the time to learn CPR. It could be the most valuable skill you acquire and might make a life-or-death difference in the future, it helped save an unsuspecting Bronny James and it could it very well save someone you love as well.

Stay informed and prioritize your health!

– Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

 

Check out Dr. Curry-Winchell’s Beyond Clinical Walls video on this subject:

Uterine Fibroids

Posted on

Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, Dr. BCW; today, I want to shed light on a significant health issue that can affect women of all ages: uterine fibroids.

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. These growths are also known as leiomyomas or myomas. Uterine fibroids can vary in size, ranging from tiny, undetectable nodules to large masses that can distort the shape of the uterus.

Symptoms:

The presence and severity of symptoms can vary among women with uterine fibroids. Some may experience no symptoms at all, while others may have one or more of the following:

  • Heavy or prolonged menstrual periods
  • Pelvic pain or pressure
  • Lower back pain
  • Frequent urination
  • Difficulty emptying the bladder
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Abdominal bloating or swelling

Causes and Risk Factors:

We do not fully understand the exact cause of uterine fibroids. Hormonal factors, particularly estrogen, and progesterone, play a role in their growth. Furthermore it is also believed that genetics also plays role. Some risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing fibroids include:

  • Family history: If your mother, sister, or grandmother had fibroids, your risk may be higher.
  • Hormonal changes: Hormones like estrogen and progesterone, which regulate the menstrual cycle, can promote the growth of fibroids.
  • Ethnicity: Uterine fibroids are more common in African American women than in women of other ethnicities. African Americans are 3 times more likely to develop uterine fibroids than white women.
  • Age: Fibroids can occur at almost any age but are most commonly found in the 30’s and 40’s.

Treatment Options:

Treatment for uterine fibroids depends on factors such as the severity of symptoms, the size, and location of the growths, and whether a woman plans to have children. Options may include:

  • Watchful waiting: A healthcare provider may recommend monitoring without intervention if fibroids are small and not causing significant symptoms.
  • Medications: Hormonal birth control and other medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms or shrink the fibroids.
  • Non-invasive procedures: MRI-guided focused ultrasound surgery (FUS) and uterine artery embolization (UAE) can target and shrink fibroids without surgery.
  • Surgical interventions: In more severe cases or when fertility is not a concern, surgical procedures like myomectomy (removal of fibroids) or hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may be recommended.

Conclusion:

Uterine fibroids are a common condition affecting women. While they are usually non-cancerous, they can cause discomfort and impact a woman’s quality of life. If you suspect you may have uterine fibroids or are experiencing symptoms, consult with your healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. Early detection and timely management can help alleviate symptoms and improve overall well-being.

Stay informed and prioritize your health!

– Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

Check out my Beyond Clinical Walls video on this subject:

 

 

Drinking Enough Water?

Posted on

Hello, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, Dr. BCW for short. Are you drinking enough water? Today, let’s discuss hydration and the amount of water you need to drink. Staying properly hydrated is crucial for maintaining good health, but the ideal fluid intake can vary depending on several factors. This article will explore important considerations and tips to help you stay hydrated.

 

Factors Affecting Hydration Needs:

It’s important to understand that the amount of water you need to drink can depend on various factors. These include diet, age, activity level, climate, and overall health. While there are general guidelines, individual hydration needs may vary. Factors such as intense physical activity, exposure to hot or dry environments, illness, or pregnancy may increase water requirements. If you have any specific concerns or questions, it’s always wise to consult a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations.

Here are some links with general recommendations for water intake.

Fluids and Hydration:

Remember that hydration is not limited to drinking plain water alone. Fluids from various sources contribute to your overall hydration. Beverages like tea, coffee, milk, and even foods like fruits, vegetables, and yogurt contain water and can help meet your fluid needs. The key is maintaining a well-balanced intake of fluids from different sources throughout the day.

 

Monitoring Hydration:

A simple way to gauge your hydration status is to monitor the color of your urine. Typically, pale yellow urine indicates good hydration levels. Darker yellow or orange urine may suggest you need to increase your fluid intake. However, certain medications, vitamins, and foods can also affect urine color and hydration needs. When assessing your hydration, it’s essential to consider other factors, including urine color, and if you have any questions, of course, reach out to a healthcare provider.

 

Listening to Your Body:

While general guidelines exist, listening to your body’s signals and responding accordingly is paramount. If you feel thirsty, it’s a sign that your body needs fluids. Additionally, pay attention to other signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, fatigue, headache, or reduced urine output. Your body is unique, and by being mindful of its cues, you can ensure you’re adequately hydrated.

 

Conclusion:

Hydration is fundamental to maintaining good health, and the amount of water you need to drink can vary based on several factors. Remember that staying hydrated involves more than just drinking plain water; fluids from beverages and foods also contribute to your overall hydration. By listening to your body’s signals, monitoring the color of your urine, and considering individual factors, you can ensure you’re meeting your hydration needs. If you have any specific concerns or questions, consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized guidance.

Stay informed and make well-informed decisions about your health and well-being.

-Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

 

Prevent Heatstroke

Posted on

Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, or Dr. BCW for short. With the summer heat in full swing taking precautions and ensuring you stay safe while enjoying outdoor activities is important. Excessive heat and intense sun exposure can lead to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Today I will share some tips on beating the summer heat and enjoying your favorite activities while staying cool and protected.

 

Understanding Heat Exhaustion:

Heat exhaustion can occur when your body is exposed to high temperatures or when you overexert yourself in hot weather. Recognizing the signs of heat exhaustion is crucial. Symptoms may include heavy sweating, increased heart rate, dizziness, fatigue, headache, and nausea. It’s important to note that heat exhaustion can develop slowly or rapidly, and everyone’s tolerance for heat varies. Watch for these symptoms in yourself and those around you who may be more susceptible to heat related illness’s like heatstroke.

 

Taking Action for Heat Exhaustion:

Taking immediate action is essential if you or someone else shows signs of heat exhaustion. Get out of the heat and into a cooler environment quickly. Drink plenty of water to rehydrate, and consider using cooling towels or ice packs to lower body temperature. Resting in a shaded area and elevating the legs can also be helpful. Remember, addressing heat exhaustion promptly can prevent it from escalating into a more severe condition like heatstroke.

 

Understanding Heatstroke:

Heatstroke is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention. Symptoms of heatstroke may include hot, red skin (dry or damp), a body temperature of 103°F or higher, rapid pulse, and confusion or loss of consciousness. If you encounter someone experiencing heatstroke, call for medical help immediately, as this condition can be life-threatening. In the meantime, move the person to a cooler area, remove excess clothing, and cool their body using wet towels or a cool bath.

 

Tips for Staying Cool and Safe:

Preventing heat-related illnesses like heatstroke starts with taking proactive measures. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Take Regular Breaks: Whether you’re working or engaging in outdoor activities, schedule regular breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas. Allow your body time to cool down and recover.

2. Use Cooling Strategies: Cooling towels, wet rags, or wearing a damp t-shirt around your head or neck can help regulate body temperature and provide relief from the heat.

3. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is essential to prevent dehydration. To stay hydrated, if plain water isn’t appealing, try consuming foods with high water content, like berries, cucumber, and yogurt. Remember, thirst is a sign of dehydration, so drink water even before you feel thirsty.

4. Dress Appropriately: Opt for lightweight, loose-fitting clothing in light colors to reflect sunlight and keep you cooler. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and using sunscreen with a high SPF also offer protection from the sun’s harmful rays.

 

Conclusion:

Enjoying the summer while staying cool and safe is possible with some simple precautions. By recognizing the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, taking regular breaks, staying hydrated, and using cooling strategies, you can protect yourself and others from the risks of excessive heat exposure. So get out there, enjoy the summer, and keep cool!

Stay informed and make well-informed decisions about your health and well-being.
-Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

 

Ear Wax Removal

Posted on

Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell or Dr. BCW. Today, let’s talk about a common condition many experience—ear wax. While ear wax is usually harmless, there are instances when it can cause discomfort and require medical intervention. In this article, we will explore: the symptoms of excessive ear wax, the importance of seeking professional care, and what to expect during a visit to a healthcare provider for ear wax removal.

 

Symptoms of Excessive Ear Wax:

Excessive ear wax buildup can lead to various symptoms that may require attention. These include pain, hearing loss, pressure, muffled sounds, hearing an echo, dizziness, and a sensation similar to being underwater or changing altitudes. If you experience any of these symptoms, please consider consulting a healthcare provider. A healthcare provider can determine if ear wax removal is required.

 

Professional Care and Avoiding Self-Help Methods:

When faced with ear wax-related issues, avoiding the use of cotton tips, bobby pins, or any other objects in your ear is crucial. These methods can push the ear wax deeper into the ear canal, exacerbating the situation or potentially causing damage to the delicate structures of the ear, including the eardrum. Seeking professional care is the safest approach for effective, safe removal.

 

Visiting a Healthcare Provider:

During a visit to a healthcare provider, an examination will be conducted to determine the presence and extent of ear wax buildup and if ear wax removal is required. The provider will use an otoscope, a medical device that shines a light deep into the ear, to inspect the ear canal thoroughly. If excess wax is observed, the provider may opt to soften the wax by introducing a water-based solution containing either hydrogen or carbamide peroxide into the ear. This process typically produces a popping or crackling sound similar to crisp rice cereal.

 

Wax Removal Procedure:

After allowing the wax-softening solution to take effect for a few minutes. Finally, the provider will conduct the ear wax removal using a bulb syringe or a spray bottle filled with warm water. It is vital for the provider to examine the eardrum before and after wax removal. This allows the provider to ensure there is no infection or damage. 

 

Conclusion:

Excessive ear wax can cause discomfort and affect your hearing. If you experience symptoms related to ear wax buildup, it’s important to seek professional care instead of attempting ear wax removal yourself. A healthcare provider will assess the situation, soften the wax using a safe solution, and remove it using appropriate tools. Remember, maintaining ear health involves avoiding inserting objects into your ear and seeking professional care when necessary.

Stay informed and make well-informed decisions about your health and well-being.

-Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

Important Health Tips Before Surgery

Posted on

Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell or Dr. BCW. I want to discuss some information health tips to know before surgery, tips that patients rarely receive regarding surgery. Surgery can be a daunting experience, but being well-prepared and informed can help alleviate some of the anxiety. So let us discuss some crucial aspects to consider before undergoing surgery. Often overlooked factors can significantly impact your post-operative experience and overall recovery.

Pain Medication and Constipation Risk:

It’s essential to be aware that certain medications prescribed for pain relief before, during, or after surgery can lead to constipation. Powerful painkillers, such as narcotics, can affect your digestive system, causing disruptions in regular bowel activity. To minimize the risk, consider taking a stool softener a few days before the surgery and while using pain medications. This simple step can help prevent discomfort and ensure a smoother recovery process.

 

Hydration and Frequent Urination:

During recovery, you may find yourself resting in bed and drinking less water than usual. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to stay hydrated and make a conscious effort to pee regularly. Holding urine for extended periods can create a breeding ground for bacteria, increasing the likelihood of developing a urinary tract infection (UTI). Additionally, prolonged immobility weakens bladder muscles, leading to potential complications.

 

Movement and Blood Clot Prevention:

If your surgeon allows it, staying active or mobile after surgery is highly recommended. Prolonged periods of sitting or lying down without movement can impede blood flow, potentially leading to the formation of blood clots, known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Blood clots can have severe consequences and even be life-threatening. By engaging in light activity and regular leg movements, you encourage blood circulation, reducing the risk of DVT and promoting a faster recovery.

 

Open Dialogue with Your Surgeon:

Open communication with your surgeon is vital before, during, and after surgery. Ask questions about the procedure, expected outcomes, potential alternatives, and necessary preparations. Being well-informed will help you mentally prepare and have realistic expectations, whether the surgery is minor or major. An open dialog with your surgeon ensures that you know what to expect and can actively participate in your recovery.

 

Conclusion:

Surgery can be a challenging experience, but being well-informed about potential risks and taking appropriate precautions can greatly improve your recovery. Remember to address concerns regarding pain medication, stay hydrated and make frequent bathroom visits, remain as active as allowed under your surgeon’s guidance, and engage in open conversations with your surgeon. Implementing these important health tips before surgery can enhance your surgical experience and set the foundation for a successful recovery.

Vaping: Beyond Harmless Water Vapor

Posted on

Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell or Dr. BCW. I recently partnered with the Nevada Cancer Coalition to discuss the dangers vaping poses to young people. In recent years, e-cigarettes or vape pens have gained popularity among young adults as a safer alternative to traditional tobacco cigarettes. However, it is crucial to understand that vaping poses significant risks to the health of young individuals, particularly those under 25. Contrary to popular belief, e-cigarettes do not merely emit harmless water vapor. In this blog post, we will explore the potential dangers of vaping and shed light on the importance of raising awareness about these risks.

The Reality of Vaping

E-cigarettes produce an aerosol, commonly mistaken for water vapor, that can contain harmful chemicals found in the e-juice used to fuel them. When inhaled, these aerosols enter the lungs, similar to traditional tobacco cigarettes, and like combustible cigarette smoke, this aerosol is also exhaled into the surrounding environment. This exhaled aerosol can pose a potential danger to those nearby, making passive exposure a cause for concern.

Nicotine and Its Impact

One of the most common concerns associated with vaping is the presence of nicotine. Nicotine, when inhaled, can disrupt the development of both the lungs and the brain, particularly in individuals under the age of 25. Young adults are still in a critical stage of growth and development, and exposing their developing bodies to nicotine can have long-lasting effects. It is important to realize the dangers of vaping extend beyond addiction; they can affect overall health and well-being.

Unintended Consequences of Flavoring

Flavored e-juices are extremely popular among e-cigarette users, with approximately 85% opting for flavored options. However, these flavors were not designed to be inhaled and may pose serious health risks. Artificial flavors used in e-cigarettes have been linked to the development of lung diseases. Shockingly, these flavors can contain dangerous chemicals such as benzene and heavy metals like nickel, tin, and lead. The inhalation of these substances can have severe consequences on respiratory health.

Taking Proactive Steps

Young adults must understand the risks to their health and the health of those around them. Recognizing that there is no safe use of e-cigarettes among youth, especially between the ages of 10 and 25, is the first step toward informed decision-making. By understanding the dangers of vaping, young individuals can make more informed choices about their well-being.

Conclusion

Vaping is not the harmless activity it is often portrayed to be. The risks associated with e-cigarettes extend far beyond harmless water vapor. The aerosol produced by these devices contains harmful chemicals, which, when inhaled, can disrupt the development of the lungs and the brain in young adults. Moreover, while enticing, the flavors used in e-cigarettes can introduce dangerous substances into the respiratory system. 

For more information on this topic, please visit HealthyLungsNV.org or these other sources.

Remember, your health matters.

Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)