A doctor has warned that vape users may develop a rather nasty side effect dubbed ‘vaper’s tongue’ – which can lead to the loss of function in taste buds.
Dr Prav Solanki, from Manchester, owns a dental clinic and has been in the medical industry for 16 years.
The 45-year-old recently shared what happens to people’s mouths when they use this product too often – warning of the grim ramifications they may suffer.
The condition is characterised by a sudden loss or reduction in the ability to taste vape juice or other foods and drinks.
“This phenomenon is quite common among vapers and can occur unexpectedly,” Dr Solanki told NeedToKnow.co.uk.
“The sensation is often described as having a coated tongue that prevents the differentiation of flavours.
“However, it’s noteworthy that while the ability to taste is affected, the vapour and nicotine absorption are not.
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“The condition can be triggered by various factors, including the constant use of a single type of vape flavour, dehydration, vitamin deficiencies, or illness.
“It typically resolves on its own and can last anywhere from a few hours to several weeks.”
The condition has three causes, according to the doctor.
DRY MOUTH:
Dr Solanki said: “Vaping can cause dry mouth by requiring so much mouth breathing, which dries up saliva.
“Since saliva is necessary for taste buds to function correctly, a lack of it can lead to an impaired ability to taste – leading to vaper’s tongue.”
FLAVOUR FATIGUE:
The doctor explained: “This happens when the olfactory sense is exposed to the same aroma for an extended period, leading to a decreased perception of the flavour.
“Since the sense of smell significantly influences the perception of taste, flavour fatigue can result in vaper’s tongue.”
SMOKING:
Dr Solanki said: “For those who have recently quit smoking, the ability to taste can be hindered due to the residual effects of smoking – which may take up to a month to resolve after quitting.”
As well as hindering the taste buds, Dr Solanki warned of the other nasty effects vaping can have on the mouth.
He said: “Some of the oral health issues associated with vaping include gum inflammation, plaque accumulation, dry mouth, receding gums, tooth decay, bad breath, and many more.
“It’s important for individuals who vape to maintain rigorous oral hygiene and to be aware of these potential risks.
“Vaper’s tongue is a condition that most vapers experience at some point.”
Dr Solanki advises users to reduce or stop vaping altogether but offers advice on how to manage the unpleasant side effects.
He said: “Increasing water intake can help with dry mouth, which is often associated with vaping and can contribute to the vaper’s tongue.
“Oral hygiene, regular brushing and using mouthwash can prevent the build-up of a film on the tongue that can block taste.
“Taking short breaks from vaping can [also] help reset the taste buds.
“For those looking to reduce vaping, nicotine replacement products or other medications might be considered as alternatives.
“These strategies can help manage the immediate issue without necessarily stopping vaping, although it’s important to consider the overall impact of vaping on one’s health.”
