Study Suggests New Policy for Electronic Cigarette Use Among Teens

There is a growing number of electronic cigarette use among teenagers as well as cases of liquid nicotine poisoning among kids. According to a report, lowering the age to buy electronic cigarettes from 18 to 16 may reduce the number of cases of conventional cigarette smoking as electronic cigarettes are less dangerous than the latter.

The research found out that in states that set prohibitions on electronic cigarette sales to minors, there has been an increased usage of standard cigarettes among 12 to 17 year olds compared to states with no prohibitions.

Nicotine use may not be good for teens but the smoke from the typical cigarettes are far worse from those of the electronic cigarettes. This is according to one of the researchers of the study.

What they suggest is a policy that directs adolescents, who will probably smoke normal cigarettes, to select electronic cigarette instead. They suggest enabling teens aged 16 years and up to buy electronic cigarettes but keeping the purchase limited for younger teens.

The Truth Behind Electronic Cigarettes

Electronic cigarettes are battery-operated devices that come with nicotine-filled cartridges. They have been in the US since 2006 and are promoted as a better alternative to traditional cigarettes. Compared to the latter, there is limited analysis on the health dangers brought by e-cigarettes. There are also no warning labels on these products. 

Engineers create electronic cigarette several years ago to offer tobacco users a smoke-free supply of nicotine. The apparatus works by heating a liquid that the user inhales. Because nothing is burned in using electronic cigarettes, no smoke is released from them.

But several studies reveal that this smoke-free apparatus can lead to several health problems.

In one study, it shows that e-cigarette delivers elevated quantities of nano particles which may trigger inflammation and cause asthma, stroke, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. 

In another study, which reviewed the data from 18 studies on e-cigarette's vapors, discovered that most of them include lung-irritating solvents where flavorings and nicotine were dissolved. What's more distressing is the fact that carbonyls can be transformed from these solvents. This group of substances contains known cancer-causing agents like acetaldehyde. 

E-cigarette vapors also pave the way for dangerous germs to grow. It can be because germs-rich vapors secrete a thicker biofilm coating that serves as their protection. 

These studies are conducted to show the effects of electronic cigarettes so users may be guided on whether they should consider using it or try lesser evil options.

When to Call Your Pediatrician

Urgent care

Sometimes it's hard to tell how sick your child is. However, urgent care or a trip to the hospital is usually not needed for a simple cold or cough, mild diarrhea, constipation, temper tantrums, or sleep problems. However, if your child has any of the following, call to find out if he needs to be seen:  

• Vomiting and diarrhea that last for more than a few hours in a child of any age  
• Rash, especially if there is also a fever  
• Any cough or cold that does not get better in several days, or a cold that gets worse and is accompanied by a fever  
• Cuts that might need stitches  
• Limping or is not able to move an arm or leg  
• Ear pain with fever, is unable to sleep or drink, is vomiting, has diarrhea, or is acting ill  
• Drainage from an ear  
• Severe sore throat or problems swallowing  
• Sharp or persistent pains in the abdomen or stomach  
• Pain that gets worse or does not go away after several hours  
• A rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher in a baby younger than 2 months  
• Fever and repeated vomiting at the same time  
• Blood in the urine  
• Bloody diarrhea or diarrhea that will not go away  
• Not drinking for more than 12 hours  

Emergency care

Call 911 (or your emergency number) for any severely ill or injured child or if your infant or child has any of the following:  

• Bleeding that does not stop with direct pressure over the wound  
• Suspected poisoning (Call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.)  
• Seizures (rhythmic jerking and loss of consciousness)  
• Trouble breathing  
• Skin or lips that look blue, purple, or gray  
• Neck stiffness or rash with fever  
• Head injury with loss of consciousness, confusion, vomiting, or poor skin color  
• Sudden lack of energy or is not able to move  
• Unconsciousness or lack of response  
• Acting strangely or becoming more withdrawn and less alert  
• A cut or burn that is large, deep, or involves the head, chest, abdomen, hands, groin, or face  

Tips Before And During A Call To The Doctor  

Your pediatrician may prefer that you call with general questions during office hours. Some offices even have special "phone-in" times. Before you call, have a pen and paper ready to write down any instructions and questions. It's easy to forget things, especially if you are worried about your child. During the call make sure your child is near the phone, if possible, in case you need to answer any questions.  

Also, be prepared to provide information about your child's health.  

• FeverIf you think your child has a fever, take your child's temperature before you call. If your child does have a fever, write down the temperature and time you took it.  
• Medical problemsRemind the doctor about past medical problems (such as asthma, seizures, or other conditions). He or she cares for many children each day and may not remember your child's health history.  
• MedicinesBe sure to mention if your child is taking any medicines, including prescription or nonprescription drugs, inhalers, supplements, vitamins, herbal products, or home remedies.  
• ImmunizationsKeep immunization records at hand. These are especially helpful if your child has an injury that may require a tetanus shot or if pertussis (whooping cough) is in your community.  
• PharmacyHave the phone number of your pharmacy ready.  

If the doctor needs to return your call, make sure you are available for a callback. Unblock your phone "call block," and keep phone lines open so that your pediatrician can return your call in a timely manner. Do not leave pager numbers. If you leave a cell phone number, be sure that you have your cell phone on and will be in an area where you can receive calls.