Why Do I Cough So Much When I Hit a Vape?

When it comes to vaping, the experience can be vastly different from smoking traditional cigarettes. For many people, a common issue that arises is a persistent cough whenever they hit a vape. This coughing can be disruptive and even alarming. To understand why this happens, we need to delve into several aspects of vaping, the mechanics of the respiratory system, and the specific elements of vape products.

The Mechanics of Vaping and Its Impact on the Respiratory System

Vaping involves inhaling aerosolized liquid, commonly known as e-liquid or vape juice, which is heated by an electronic device to produce vapor. Unlike traditional cigarettes, which produce smoke through combustion, vaping generates aerosol through the evaporation of liquid. This process, while perceived as less harmful by some, introduces new variables into the respiratory system.

1. Composition of Vape Juice

E-liquids typically consist of a base of propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG), with flavorings and nicotine added in varying concentrations. Propylene glycol is a known irritant to the respiratory system. Its properties can cause dryness in the throat and lead to coughing, especially for those not accustomed to inhaling it.

2. High Nicotine Concentrations

Nicotine, present in many e-liquids, can also be a culprit. High nicotine levels can irritate the throat and lungs, triggering coughing as a reflex action to expel what the body perceives as an irritant.

3. Temperature of the Vapor

The temperature of the vapor can influence throat irritation. When the vape device is set to a higher temperature, the vapor produced is hotter and can cause more irritation to the throat and lungs. This can lead to coughing as the body attempts to cool down and expel the hot vapor.

4. Inhalation Technique

The manner in which the vapor is inhaled can affect coughing. For instance, taking deep or forceful inhales can irritate the throat more than shallow, gentle inhales. This irritation can trigger coughing as the body responds to the sudden influx of vapor.

The Role of Flavorings and Additives

Flavorings in vape juice are another significant factor. Some flavorings, particularly those with strong chemical compositions, can contribute to throat irritation and coughing. While these flavorings are generally deemed safe for consumption, inhalation can affect the respiratory system differently.

1. Artificial Flavors

Artificial flavorings, such as those used to mimic fruity or sweet tastes, may contain chemicals that can irritate the throat. These compounds, when vaporized and inhaled, can exacerbate coughing.

2. Additives and Preservatives

Certain additives and preservatives used in vape juice can also contribute to throat irritation. These substances might not be as well-studied as the primary components of vape juice, leading to unpredictable reactions in the respiratory system.

Individual Sensitivities and Allergies

Some individuals might have specific sensitivities or allergies to components in vape juice. For example, people with asthma or other respiratory conditions might find that vaping exacerbates their symptoms, leading to increased coughing.

1. Pre-existing Respiratory Conditions

Individuals with conditions like asthma or chronic bronchitis may experience more pronounced symptoms when vaping. The inhalation of vape aerosol can aggravate existing conditions, leading to coughing.

2. Allergic Reactions

Allergic reactions to components in vape juice, such as flavorings or nicotine, can also cause coughing. The body’s immune response to these allergens can result in throat irritation and subsequent coughing.

Addressing and Preventing Coughing from Vaping

Understanding why you cough when you vape is the first step in finding ways to mitigate or prevent this issue. Here are some strategies to help reduce coughing:

1. Adjust Nicotine Levels

Reducing the nicotine concentration in your e-liquid might help. Lower nicotine levels can decrease throat irritation and reduce coughing.

2. Experiment with Propylene Glycol and Vegetable Glycerin Ratios

If propylene glycol is causing discomfort, try using e-liquids with higher vegetable glycerin ratios. VG is generally less irritating to the throat.

3. Regulate Vapor Temperature

Adjusting the temperature settings on your vape device can help. Lower temperatures produce cooler vapor, which is less likely to irritate the throat.

4. Modify Inhalation Techniques

Practicing a more gentle inhalation technique can minimize irritation. Try inhaling more slowly and steadily to reduce the impact on your throat.

5. Choose High-Quality Vape Juices

Opt for vape juices from reputable brands that use high-quality ingredients. This can help avoid unnecessary additives and preservatives that might cause irritation.

6. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water can help keep your throat moist and reduce irritation caused by vaping.

Conclusion

Coughing when you vape can be attributed to various factors, including the composition of vape juice, nicotine levels, temperature of the vapor, and individual sensitivities. By understanding these factors and making adjustments to your vaping habits, you can potentially reduce or eliminate coughing and have a more comfortable vaping experience.