Up in Smoke: How E-Cigarettes Can Aggravate Asthma and Allergies

Electronic cigarettes (also called "e-cigs" or "vapes") have become alarmingly popular among young adults on college campuses, and because of their candy-like flavors available, may be appealing to children and teens as well. Because they are being marketed as a safer alternative to tobacco-containing cigarettes, some smokers are turning to "vapes" thinking they are just inhaling water vapors and need not worry about damaging the lungs. However, there are chemicals such as propylene glycol in the vapors, which has been linked to increased risk of developing asthma and allergies, according to a 2010 study from Harvard School of Public Health.

Other concerns include the possible inhalation of aerosolized chemicals from the battery once the cartridge is empty, with unknown possible carcinogenic effects. Several lung societies are advocating restriction or bans on e-cigarettes until more is known about their safety.

Bottom line: if you have asthma, don't inhale anything other than clean air and your prescribed medications!