What are e-cigarettes?

E-cigarettes are electronic devices that heat liquids to produce a vapour that the user inhales. The liquid typically contains propylene glycol, nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals.

What are the risks associated with e-cigarettes?

According to a study by Lung Foundation Australia, 100% of e-liquids tested in Australia were inaccurately labelled and 62% contained chemicals likely to be toxic if continuously vaped.

Long-term impacts of vaping are unclear, however short term effects include nausea, vomiting, mouth and airway irritation, chest pain and heart palpitations.

For young people, vaping has been known to be a gateway to smoking cigarettes and nicotine addiction.

What are the symptoms of EVALI?

Common respiratory symptoms associated with EVALI are:

• Cough
• Chest pain
• Shortness of Breath

These symptoms can rapidly progress to Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, which occurs when the small air sacs in the lungs known as alveoli get damaged. This causes severe breathing difficulties and low blood oxygen levels.

CT scans of the lungs are a quick and useful diagnostic tool for identifying and determine the severity of EVALI. Unlike plain x-rays, CT scans of the lungs can also exclude other potential causes for symptoms such as infection, fluid on the lungs or lung lesions.

How long does the CT take?

A CT scan usually takes approximately 30 minutes, but may be slightly shorter or longer.

What are the risks associated with a CT?

CT scans are safe examinations that provides excellent imaging without any significant risk to the patient.

If you have any questions or concerns about this procedure, please direct any questions to your referring doctor or our technical staff who will attend to you prior to the commencement of the procedure.

If you have developed any respiratory symptoms and have used an e-cigarette or vaping device within the last 90 days, see one of our bulk-billing GPs for a consultation and referral for a low-dose chest CT scan.

All referrals are accepted to Our Medical Radiology and walk-ins are welcome. We are open 8am to 6pm every day.

For more information and to find your nearest clinic, visit our Radiology Clinics page.