Experts say that flavored e cigarettes can cause irreversible lung damage. A U.S. teen developed "popcorn lung" after secretly vaping for 3 years a permanent, life altering disease. Officially known as bronchiolitis obliterans, Health experts are sounding the alarm about a serious condition linked to vaping, known as "popcorn lung" or bronchiolitis obliterans. This irreversible lung disease is caused by harmful chemicals, like diacetyl, found Popcorn lung: What is it, and who is at risk? Harvard Health Is Popcorn Lung Caused By Vaping? Medical Professional Links 'Popcorn Lung' Disease to Vaping Montgomery Community Media