Why Vapes, E-liquids and Other Nicotine Products Are Dangerous: What Every Caregiver Should Know

Nicotine poisoning can affect anyone, but children are at greater risk due to their lower body weight and smaller body size. In Kansas, children under age 5 have the highest rate of accidental nicotine poisoning.

What is Nicotine? Nicotine is a highly addictive stimulant found in tobacco and products like pouches, pods, cigarettes, lozenges, gum, vaping devices and smokeless tobacco. Nicotine is as addictive as heroin or cocaine, which makes it very hard to quit. Those who start smoking or vaping before age 21 have the hardest time breaking the habit.

Many adults, parents, and caregivers don’t realize the importance of keeping all nicotine products secure and out of sight from children. Bright labels, sweet smells, and colorful packaging can make these products look like candy or toys. Kids also often copy the behavior of others. Avoid using nicotine products in front of children and always recycle or safely throw away used products.

Signs and symptoms of nicotine poisoning include: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, drooling, pale or sweaty skin, fast heart rate, muscle tremors, headache or dizziness, and difficulty breathing.

If you suspect nicotine poisoning, call 911 right away. The best prevention is quitting. Many people who use tobacco or nicotine products want to quit. FREE help is available to all Kansans. Call the Kansas Tobacco Quitline at 1-800-784-8669 or visit ksquit.org