Popcorn Lung: A Dangerous Risk of Vaping

In recent years, there’s been a sharp increase in the use of e-cigarettes, also known as vaping. Many people believe that it is a safer alternative to smoking; however, the inhaled vapor contains more than 7,000 potentially harmful chemicals that can damage the lungs and lead to serious conditions, including popcorn lung.

What is Popcorn Lung?

The medical name for popcorn lung is bronchiolitis obliterans. “It is a rare, non-cancerous condition in which the tiniest airways (bronchioles) in the lungs become inflamed. This inflammation can eventually lead to scarring, airway blockage and permanent lung damage,” says Catalina Teba, MD, lung specialist at University Hospitals. “Although uncommon, for some people, popcorn lung can be life-threatening,” she adds.

It’s called popcorn lung because the condition was first identified among people who worked in popcorn factories. Subsequent research found a possible link between the disease and a chemical called diacetyl – a chemical used in microwave popcorn to simulate butter flavor. It is also one of the chemicals used to enhance the flavor of e-cigarettes, suggesting that vaping may be a significant risk factor for the disease.

Symptoms Can Mimic Other Conditions

The most common symptoms of popcorn lung include:

• Persistent cough, with or without mucus
• Wheezing or shortness of breath, especially during and after exercise
• Fatigue, fever or night sweats
• Chest tightness or discomfort

Because these can be signs of other conditions, it’s important to see your doctor. “Confirming a diagnosis of popcorn lung may involve imaging tests like X-ray or CT scans, lung function tests and bronchoscopy – a procedure that allows the doctor to see inside your lungs and airways,” says Dr. Teba.

Incurable but Treatable

Bronchiolitis obliterans is an irreversible and chronic condition. However, there are treatments available to manage the symptoms and slow progression of the disease. And the sooner a diagnosis is made, the better. Early detection increases the likelihood that the symptoms can be successfully managed.

The first and most important step will be to stop vaping and smoking. Treatment plans may also include:

• Prescription corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
• Inhaled medications like albuterol to dilate the bronchial tubes and improve breathing
• Supplemental oxygen

Although rare, lung transplantation may be necessary in people with severe disease that does not respond to medical therapies.

Vaping Is Risky Business

Although vaping hasn’t been around long enough for researchers to link it to lung cancer, there is no question that it can cause irreversible lung damage. In addition to popcorn lung, the harmful chemicals contained in the vapor may contribute to the development of pneumonia or even lung collapse. Some vaping products can also lead to cardiovascular problems.

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University Hospitals has a team of pulmonary experts with the advanced training and expertise to diagnose and manage a wide range of lung and breathing disorders, including popcorn lung.