Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung condition commonly caused by long-term exposure to inhaled irritants such as cigarette smoke, dust, fumes, or chemicals.
While traditional smoking remains the leading cause, growing research shows that vaping and COPD are also closely linked. E-cigarette use can increase COPD risk, worsen existing lung disease, and contribute to respiratory complications from vaping.
E-cigarettes were introduced as an alternative to smoking and are often used by those trying to quit smoking. They work by heating a liquid that contains nicotine, flavourings, and other chemicals to create an aerosol.
Although the aerosol contains fewer toxic substances than cigarette smoke, it can still cause lung damage, irritate airways, and lead to vaping inflammation in the airways; all of which may contribute to COPD from vaping.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) refers to a group of chronic lung conditions that cause persistent breathing difficulties. It affects mostly middle-aged or older adults, especially those with a history of smoking or long-term exposure to irritants.
COPD includes:
Emphysema, which is damage to the air sacs (alveoli) that reduces the lungs’ ability to transfer oxygen.
Chronic bronchitis, which is long-term inflammation of the airways, causing mucus buildup and persistent cough.
Many people develop symptoms gradually, and early signs of COPD in vape users may resemble those seen in smokers, such as chronic cough, wheezing, or shortness of breath.
Although often marketed as a “safer” alternative to cigarettes, vaping can still cause lung damage. E-cigarette aerosols contain volatile organic compounds, heavy metals, and ultrafine particles that irritate and inflame the airways. Over time, these changes can impair lung function and contribute to COPD from vaping.
Studies indicate that e-cigarette users have higher odds of developing chronic bronchitis-like symptoms, reinforcing the link between chronic bronchitis and vaping.
Some ways vaping leads to COPD include:
Persistent inflammation in the airways
Increased mucus production
Damage to lung tissue
Reduced ability of the lungs to defend against infections
Even though exposure levels differ from cigarette smoke, comparing smoking vs vaping and COPD risk shows that vaping is not harmless and can still cause long-term respiratory issues.
More than 500 chemicals have been detected in vape aerosols, many of which are known irritants or toxins that can worsen respiratory disease. These include:
Diacetyl: Linked to bronchiolitis obliterans (“popcorn lung”)
Formaldehyde: A toxic chemical linked to airway irritation
Acrolein: A chemical used in pesticides that can damage lung tissue and airways
Acetaldehyde: Irritates airways and can cause inflammation
Nitrosamines: Found in certain nicotine products and are associated with cancer risk
Although levels vary across devices and brands, repeated inhalation and exposure to these substances can accelerate lung damage and contribute to COPD progression.
Although some people use e-cigarettes to reduce harm from smoking, vaping still carries significant health risks. Both smoking and vaping can impair lung health, and vaping may trigger:
Airway inflammation
Breathing problems
Nicotine dependence
Worsening of asthma or chronic bronchitis
Severe lung injury (EVALI)
Even though toxins may be lower in vaping aerosols, vaping and breathing problems are well documented, emphasising that “safer” does not mean “safe.”
Watch for these signs of COPD in vape users and smokers:
Shortness of breath
Persistent cough with mucus
Wheezing
Frequent chest infections
Chest tightness
Fatigue or reduced stamina
If symptoms worsen or impact daily activities, medical evaluation is essential.
The best way to prevent COPD is to reduce exposure to lung irritants.
Avoid vaping and smoking.
Reduce exposure to air pollution, dust, and chemical fumes.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle and stay active.
Practise good indoor ventilation.
Seek help early if you experience breathing issues.
If you vape or smoke, quitting now can significantly slow disease progression and in support of COPD prevention for vape users.
If you vape or smoke and are experiencing persistent respiratory symptoms, early assessment is crucial. The sooner COPD is detected, the better the potential outcomes.
At Prince Court Medical Centre, our respiratory medicine specialists offer lung function testing, imaging, and personalised treatment plans to diagnose and manage COPD and respiratory complications from vaping.
Book an appointment today to protect your respiratory health and breathe easier.
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