AL sees rise of nicotine poisoning alongside e-cig popularity

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Retailers are beginning to sell e-cigarette fluid with childproof caps. (Source: WAFF)

HUNTSVILLE, AL (WAFF) - They are said to be healthier than cigarettes - even a step on the way to quitting altogether.

e-Cigarettes contain no carcinogens, just nicotine. It's one of the many reasons their popularity has soared.

But that popularity is also the reason the Alabama Poison Control Center said they have seen an increase in nicotine poisoning.

Between 2010 and 2013 there were 23 cases. So far in 2014, that number has tripled to nearly 70 reported cases. The center said the majority of those cases are children.

"They are candy-flavored and sweet-flavored so it looks like candy," explained Dr. Tim Howard.

Children aren't just ingesting the fluid by drinking it; we are told many are simply getting the concentrated nicotine on their skin. Depending on the type of fluid and the age of the child, just a few drops absorbed into the skin can make them sick.

Dr. Howard said the side effects can range from vomiting to seizures, and even death. Still, he said e-cigarettes are a better option when used correctly and kept out of reach of children.

At Huntsville-area e-cig retailer Eco-Smoke, they are taking every precaution. Child-proof lids are sported on nearly every bottle of e-cigarette fluid. There are also signs posted around the shop, and salespersons verbally tell new customers about the risks associated with the devices and fluid refills.

"We want people to know what they are using and what they are buying," said co-owner Chris Ray.

Ray and Dr. Howard agree, it is up to the user to make the number of nicotine poisonings go down. That is simply achieved by keeping them out of reach of small hands.

If you suspect you or someone you know is suffering from a nicotine poisoning emergency, call 911 or 1-800-222-1222.