A mother’s worst nightmare became a reality when her 12-year-old daughter ended up in a coma after vaping. Sarah Griffin, who already suffers from asthma, developed an infection that severely hindered her ability to breathe. She was rushed to the emergency room, where doctors immediately placed her in intensive care due to dangerously low oxygen levels. In order to help her fight the infection, Sarah was put into an induced coma for three days. Thankfully, she is now recovering at home.
When Sarah first began coughing one evening, her parents attributed it to her asthma and didn’t think much of it. She tried to alleviate her symptoms with her inhaler and nebulizer throughout the night. However, within 24 hours, she was struggling to breathe and had to be admitted to the hospital’s intensive care unit. Sarah’s mother, Mary, claims that doctors informed her that vaping had weakened her daughter’s lungs, even though she hadn’t been vaping heavily. According to Mary, the doctors explained that if Sarah hadn’t been vaping, she would have been in a better position to fight off the infection.
Mary recalls the terrifying experience, stating, “The doctors said if Sarah had arrived at the hospital any later, the outcome would have been completely different. I can’t even bear to think about that.” Sarah’s cough initially seemed no different from her usual asthma symptoms. That morning, Mary left to take her other children to school when Sarah called her, expressing her fear and asking her to come back home. Mary returned, gave Sarah her inhaler and nebulizer, and then left briefly to go to the shops. However, she received another call from Sarah, who was breathless and struggling to speak.
Quickly, Sarah’s father rushed her to the Royal Victoria Hospital, where it was discovered that her oxygen levels had dropped dangerously low. Doctors showed Mary an X-ray of Sarah’s lungs, revealing a serious injury to one lung. Sarah also had an infection, which, combined with the lung injury, had a significant impact on her body in a short amount of time. Mary describes the scene in the hospital as heartbreaking, with tubes, wires, and machines everywhere. She felt helpless as a mother, living through her worst nightmare.
Initially, the medical staff decided to delay bringing Sarah out of her induced coma due to her agitation, fearing that they would have to put her back into the coma. However, after three days, they were finally able to wake her up and remove the ventilator. Sarah’s family has decided to share their story to raise awareness about the dangers of vaping for young people. They want others to understand that vaping is not harmless, despite common misconceptions. Fidelma Carter, head of public health at Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke, emphasizes the need for a change in perception to prevent more young people from becoming addicted to vaping.
The concern about vaping among young people has prompted action from the UK government. Chancellor Rishi Sunak recently announced plans to crack down on vaping, including a potential ban on kid-friendly flavors and packaging. The colorful displays of vaping devices, often placed next to candies and sweets, entice children to try them. NHS Digital data has revealed that vaping-related disorders among children are on the rise, with a significant increase in the number of hospital admissions due to vaping. Tests on confiscated e-cigarettes have also shown dangerous levels of toxic metals, such as lead, nickel, and chromium.
While vaping is often seen as a safer alternative to smoking, the long-term health effects remain unknown. Doctors fear that individuals who start vaping at a young age may experience lung disease, dental issues, and even cancer in the future. Paediatricians have already reported cases of children being hospitalized with breathing difficulties caused by vaping.
It is crucial to dispel the misconception that vaping is risk-free and educate young people about the potential dangers. The story of Sarah Griffin serves as a powerful reminder that vaping can have serious consequences for health. Awareness campaigns and government interventions are necessary to protect young people from the harmful effects of vaping.
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