• Signs to Look For

    It’s important to remember that every teenager is unique, so the signs to watch for can differ based on the individual and the situation. Some physical signs of vaping may also suggest other health issues. If you have concerns for your child’s health, don’t hesitate to consult with a doctor. With that in mind, here are some signs to look for:

    Equipment

    Vaping products frequently and quickly evolve, making it difficult to stay up-to-date on what to look for. Vapes can come in various forms, including disposable devices (both larger-capacity and smaller one that resemble USB drives), pod and cartridge devices, and open-system vapes (which can include the older box-y models). Additional products may also accompany vapes, such as pods and cartridges, chargers, and e-juice bottles. The product appearance typically differs between marijuana and nicotine vaping. If your child is using high-concentrate marijuana, you may also find containers of waxy or gel-life substances, along with small scooping tools. Staying updated on products can help you recognize the signs more effectively.

    Purchases

    Be aware of unusual purchases. Vapes can be bought at smoke shops, gas stations, and larger retailers. Some stores do not strictly encourage age verification Knowing the typical price range for vapes- usually between $8 and $25- can help you spot any usual spending. If your child is buying vapes from someone else, they might ask for cash more frequently. They may also use gift cards to conceal their purchases. Vapes can also be purchased online. Be aware of packages arriving at your house unmarked. You can often search the name of the company in the return address to find out where it originated.

    Scent

    One perceived benefit of vaping over smoking traditional cigarettes is the scent is much more pleasant and easier to hide. While the smell might be faint, you might catch a scent of something that doesn’t belong. For example, you may smell a berry smell even though there are no berries in the room, or cake when you haven’t baked anything. These can be signs that someone has recently vaped.

    Increased thirst or nose bleeds

    Certain chemicals used in vapes can cause dry mouth and nose. As a result, people who vape may drink more fluids or experience nosebleeds. They may also crave stronger flavors, as dry mouth can diminish their ability to taste. While these symptoms can be signs of vaping, they could also point to other health issues, so it's essential to consult a doctor if you notice them.

    Vaping Slang

    There is a vast amount of vaping slang, and the terms evolve quickly, making it hard to keep up. If your child uses slang you don’t understand, you can always look it up online. Common terms include “nic” (nicotine), “rip” (taking a hit from a vape), “cart” (cartridge, often containing THC), and even certain emojis, like clouds, batteries, or an exhaling face.

    Social Media

    Vaping is frequently discussed and even facilitated through social media. Teens might use platforms to buy vapes or share posts about them. It’s important to understand the apps your child uses to monitor their online behavior. Look at the content they post, the posts they like, and the accounts they follow to spot any potential red flags.

    Behavior

    Vaping can affect the brain, leading to noticeable behavioral changes. These may include increased anxiety, irritability, trouble focusing, loss of appetite, or even depression. Vaping marijuana may specifically cause behavioral shifts, such as increased appetite or altered moods. Since everyone reacts differently to nicotine or cannabis, it’s important to know your child’s baseline behavior and take note of any significant changes.

    Keep in mind that some teens may turn to vaping to self-medicate for stress or underlying mental health issues, not realizing that vaping can actually make these problems worse over time.

     

    If you suspect that your child is vaping, please visit our page entitled “Help! My Teen is Vaping!”