If you’re thinking about quitting vaping, you may be wondering what it’s like. We’re here to answer some of those big questions. Let’s dive in! 

Should I quit vaping?

Nicotine is highly addictive — and vaping at a young age rewires the brain and makes it harder to avoid other tobacco products like cigarettes. Learn more about the dangers of vaping.

Vapes also contain a number of dangerous chemicals. Here are just a few:

• Propylene glycol is found in antifreeze, paint thinner and artificial smoke in fog machines.
• Diacetyl is a chemical already linked to an outbreak of a lung disease commonly called “popcorn lung.”
• Benzene is typically found in car exhaust.
• Vape aerosols also contain heavy metals such as tin, lead and nickel.

Researchers have yet to fully understand how these chemicals affect the body over the long term. Quitting vapes is the best way to ensure a healthy heart — and lungs. 

Should you quit vaping over time or cold turkey?

Research suggests that quitting cold turkey may be the most effective way to quit. If you go this route, be sure to throw away all vaping materials, including chargers, pods and juices.

Another advantage of quitting cold turkey is you won’t feel tempted to reach for “just one puff.”

On the other hand, quitting over time may work better for you. The trick with this method is to set your quit date and make a plan to taper down on vape use. Doing so will help your body adjust to lower amounts of nicotine.

No matter your quitting strategy, be sure to have a support system of family, friends and the Helpline — or My Life, My Quit*.

How long does it take to quit vaping?

Everyone is different, and it depends on your quitting strategy. Nicotine withdrawals typically peak 1 to 3 days after quitting.

During the withdrawal period, it’s important to have someone to talk to — whether it’s a family member or a Quit Coach. The Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline and My Life, My Quit offer supportive quit coaching absolutely free.

What happens during nicotine detox?

After just 72 hours, nicotine is completely out of your system. During that time, you may experience headaches, chills and feel irritable as a result of nicotine withdrawal.

Nicotine is shown to decrease blood flow around the heart, and some physicians believe vapes can have similar effects. Quitting allows blood circulation to improve and lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease and heart attack.

After quitting, your lungs begin to heal, restoring lung capacity and the ability to fight infection. Soon you’ll be coughing less and breathing easier — especially during physical activity.

The Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline

Since 2003, the Helpline has assisted more than 470,000 Oklahomans on their journey to quit tobacco and vaping. When you reach out to the Helpline, you gain access to compassionate support and effective resources that put you on the path to living tobacco free.

To register, sign up here or call 1-800-QUIT NOW.

My Life, My Quit*

Now, 13-17-year-olds can get personalized help to quit. My Life, My Quit offers nonjudgmental quit coaching via text, web or phone. To get started, text “Start my quit” to 36072 or visit MyLifeMyQuit.com to learn more.