Electronic cigarettes or e-cigarettes have gained popularity in recent years as an alternative to traditional tobacco cigarettes.

These devices are battery-operated and use heat to vaporize a liquid mixture containing nicotine and other chemicals that are inhaled by the user. While they are marketed as safer than traditional cigarettes, research suggests that e-cigarettes may have serious health consequences, particularly when it comes to our cardiovascular health. Here’s what you need to know:.

E-cigarettes and Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular disease, which includes heart attacks, strokes, and other conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels, is the leading cause of death worldwide.

Smoking traditional cigarettes is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and many people have turned to e-cigarettes believing that they are a less harmful alternative. However, research suggests that e-cigarettes may be just as harmful, if not worse, for our cardiovascular health.

The Effects of Nicotine

Nicotine is one of the primary chemicals found in e-cigarette liquid, and it is highly addictive. Nicotine can increase heart rate, blood pressure, and the amount of oxygen needed by the heart, all of which can contribute to cardiovascular disease.

In addition, nicotine can also cause blood vessels to constrict, reducing blood flow and increasing the risk of blood clots.

Chemicals in E-cigarette Vapor

E-cigarette vapor contains a variety of other chemicals besides nicotine that can also contribute to cardiovascular disease.

For example, many e-cigarette liquids contain propylene glycol, which can irritate the respiratory system and cause inflammation. This inflammation can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. In addition, some e-cigarette liquids contain flavoring chemicals, such as diacetyl, that have been linked to lung disease.

While the effects of these chemicals on cardiovascular health are not yet fully understood, they are cause for concern.

The Risks of Secondhand Vapor

Secondhand vapor from e-cigarettes may also pose a risk to cardiovascular health. While e-cigarette vapor is generally considered less harmful than traditional cigarette smoke, it still contains a variety of chemicals that can be harmful when inhaled.

Secondhand vapor has been shown to increase heart rate and blood pressure in some people, and there is concern that it could also increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.

The Bottom Line

While e-cigarettes are still relatively new, research suggests that they may pose serious risks to our cardiovascular health.

The chemicals in e-cigarette liquid, including nicotine and flavoring chemicals, can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. In addition, secondhand vapor may also be harmful. If you are currently using e-cigarettes, it’s important to understand these risks and talk to your healthcare provider about strategies for quitting.