Smokers all around the world are increasingly switching to e-cigarettes as a means of quitting smoking.
In Australia, vaping is a second-line treatment, which means it may only be considered after other smoking cessation tools have proven unsuccessful.
There are strict laws regarding vaping in the country, and you will require a doctor’s approval and valid prescriptions to purchase and use NVPs.
If you’re a smoker considering vapes as a smoking cessation tool, it’s important to know what happens when you quit smoking and start vaping.
Chat to an Aussie GP today
Bulk-billed phone consultations
TGA-authorised Aussie doctors
Nicotine vaping scripts available
If you have started looking into nicotine vaping products, you may have a few questions. What happens if you switch to vaping? Is it better to switch to vaping than to continue smoking? Will your body heal from the damage done by smoking?
Let’s take a comprehensive look at what to expect when you switch from smoking to vaping.
Benefits of Switching from Smoking to Vaping
Research has found that people who switch from smoking to vaping experience a range of health benefits.
According to a study conducted by King’s College London, switching from smoking to vaping significantly decreases exposure to harmful substances that lead to cancer, lung disease, and cardiovascular issues.
In simple terms, this means your breathing improves, as does your heart health.
One of the authors of the report even suggested that helping people switch from smoking to vaping should become a government priority in England.
Another study found that individuals who switch from smoking to vaping may not only pick up healthy habits in the short term but also build more wholesome routines in the future.
What to Expect When You First Start Vaping
When you first switch to vaping, you may notice that you cough as you inhale, as the experience of vaping and the throat feeling can take some getting used to.
But can you get the smoker’s flu from vaping?
Initially, switching from smoking to vaping can potentially cause certain symptoms such as dryness and irritation in the mouth and throat, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, dizziness and headaches. Since some of these symptoms resemble those of the common cold, they are sometimes referred to as smoker’s flu.
The side effects of switching from cigarettes to vapes are temporary and will subside over a short period.
How Long Does It Take to Adjust to Vaping?
With a change as momentous as switching from smoking to vaping, it won’t come as a surprise that there is an adjustment period. This period can last for several weeks, but the first two weeks are the most important in terms of setting the tone.
Finding the right combination of device and strength of liquid may require experimentation. Getting used to the ‘sensation’ of vaping may also take time.
Vaping provides a different sensation than smoking; you’re switching from inhaling smoke to breathing in a slightly thicker aerosol (also known as vapour). This may take time to get used to. Remember, you’ve been smoking for years; switching from cigarettes to vapes is going to take at least a few days.
What Happens in the Body as You Switch from Smoking to Vaping?
This depends on how long a person has been smoking and how eager they are to kick the habit.
Typically, 8 hours after stopping smoking, the oxygen levels in your body will rise and your breathing will improve; in 24 hours all CO will be flushed from your system; in 48 hours your sense of taste and smell will improve; and in 72 hours you’ll notice enhanced respiratory functions.
Is It Hard Switching From Smoking to Vaping?
This differs from person to person. Some find switching from smoking to vaping easy, others take longer to get used to it.
Having the right attitude and being committed to quitting smoking will aid your transition. It’s important that you stick with it and give yourself the best chance at success.
Should I Start Vaping?
Only a TGA-approved GP can determine if you should be vaping. They will look at your smoking and medical history and decide on the right course of action for you.
Speak to one of our TGA-approved doctors about your options now via a bulk-billed telehealth assessment.
Is It Ok to Vape Every Other Day?
This will be up to your doctor. They will create a smoking cessation plan for you, which will outline how often you should vape.
Generally speaking, vaping every other day is not considered problematic, as long as you aren’t still smoking.
Do Your Lungs Heal When You Switch to Vaping?
After 3 to 9 months of quitting smoking and only vaping, you may notice an improvement in your lung function. This is because you have stopped exposing your lungs to the tar, carcinogens and toxins present in tobacco smoke.
Tips for a Smooth Transition
Once you’ve been vaping for 2 weeks (without smoking), your body will get used to this new way of receiving nicotine. With preparation, you’ll be better equipped to manage any smoking to vaping withdrawal symptoms.
A few tips to help you transition smoothly to vaping:
- Vape when you feel like a cigarette.
- Keep your vape with you at all times to prevent smoking on impulse.
- Address your nicotine cravings with vapes.
- Remember to regularly charge your vape.
- It’s recommended to get a spare battery and device in case your vape fails or you run out of charge.
Vaping as a Stepping Stone to Quitting
Vaping is considered one of the most effective smoking cessation aids. Switching from smoking to vaping leads to all-around improvements in health.
We know you’re reading this post because you’re eager to know what to expect when switching from vaping to smoking.
Smokefree Clinic gives you access to many medically reviewed and trustworthy resources that can inform and aid you in your path to wellness, so have a look around!
If you’re ready to get started, Smokefree can connect you to bulk-billing Australian healthcare professionals who excel in helping patients quit smoking for good, including using responsible vaping products where appropriate.
Click here to book your bulk-billed telehealth consultation with an Australian healthcare professional and quit smoking today.
Sources:
Making smoking obsolete: summary
Smokers who switch to e-cigarettes may adopt other healthy routines