The 34-year-old made the disclosure in an Instagram post on Sunday, admitting that she had vaped nicotine extensively and believed the habit had permanently altered her voice.
Gomez acknowledged that quitting nicotine was difficult but urged people who vape, or are considering taking up the habit, to reconsider because of its potential consequences.
She also disclosed that she had recently stopped using nicotine and expressed hope that she would maintain her progress despite the challenges associated with overcoming addiction.
The Only Murders in the Building star encouraged people struggling with similar habits to remain determined, noting that overcoming addiction could be difficult but achievable.
Lupus Also Linked to Concerns About Her Voice
Gomez, who was diagnosed with the chronic autoimmune condition lupus in 2015, has previously suggested that the illness sometimes affects her throat.
During an Instagram question-and-answer session in December, she explained that her throat occasionally swells internally, which could contribute to changes in her voice.
Lupus can cause inflammation that affects different parts of the body. When the larynx, or voice box, is affected, it may result in hoarseness or vocal strain.
Gomez’s voice has also become deeper over the years, a change that can occur naturally with age. However, the difference has attracted attention from some fans, who have shared videos comparing her voice at different stages of her career.
Concerns About the Effects of Vaping
Although research into the long-term effects of vaping is still developing, evidence has linked the practice to several health concerns.
Reported effects include breathing difficulties, coughing, wheezing, dental problems, sleep disturbances and other potential health complications.
Nicotine is highly addictive, prompting health authorities to discourage children and non-smokers from taking up vaping. However, e-cigarettes can help some adults quit smoking when used as a substitute for tobacco cigarettes.
Gomez’s admission comes after singer Lola Young also spoke about experiencing breathing difficulties that she associated with vaping.
Gomez’s Health History
The singer first publicly disclosed her lupus diagnosis in a 2015 interview with Billboard, explaining that she had undergone chemotherapy and taken time away from the spotlight to focus on her health.
In 2017, Gomez received a kidney transplant from her friend Francia Raisa after complications associated with lupus. The procedure helped improve her condition, although she later revealed that she experienced another flare-up in 2020.
Following her latest disclosure about nicotine, some social media users questioned her decision to vape, citing concerns about the potential health implications given her medical history.
Others, however, praised her for speaking openly about nicotine addiction and making an effort to quit.
Several supporters described her honesty as an opportunity to highlight how difficult it can be to overcome addictive habits, while commending her determination to make healthier choices.
