Why Am I Coughing from a Vape?

If you’re coughing from your vape, you’re not alone. Many vapers experience coughing as a side effect of vaping. There are several reasons why this might be happening, and understanding them can help you find a solution.

One possible reason for coughing when you vape is that you’re using the incorrect inhale technique on your device. If you’re inhaling too forcefully, you might be taking in more vapor than your lungs can handle, causing you to cough. Another reason could be that you’re using poor quality e-liquid or high levels of nicotine or propylene glycol (PG) in your vape juice. These irritants can cause coughing and throat irritation.

Understanding Vaping

If you are new to vaping, it’s important to understand what it is and how it works. In this section, we will discuss the basics of vaping, including its components and how they work together.

What is Vaping?

Vaping is the act of inhaling and exhaling vapor produced by an electronic device called a vape. The vapor is produced by heating a liquid, called e-juice or e-liquid, which is usually made up of a combination of propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), flavorings, and nicotine (although some e-liquids are nicotine-free).

Vaping has become increasingly popular in recent years as a way to quit smoking or as a recreational activity. While vaping is generally considered to be less harmful than smoking, it’s important to understand the potential risks and side effects.

Components of a Vape

A vape consists of several components that work together to produce vapor. Here are the main components of a typical vape:

• Battery: The battery is the power source for the vape. It provides the energy needed to heat the coil and vaporize the e-liquid.
• Coil: The coil is a small piece of wire that is wrapped around a wick. When the battery is activated, the coil heats up and vaporizes the e-liquid.
• Tank: The tank is the container that holds the e-liquid. It usually has a capacity of 2-5 ml and is made of glass or plastic.
• Atomizer: The atomizer is the part of the vape that contains the coil and wick. It is responsible for heating the e-liquid and producing vapor.
• Mouthpiece: The mouthpiece is the part of the vape that you put in your mouth to inhale the vapor.

Understanding the components of a vape is important because it can help you troubleshoot any issues you may have and make informed decisions about which vape to buy.

Potential Causes of Coughing

If you’re experiencing coughing while vaping, there could be a few potential reasons why. Here are some of the most common causes:

Dry Hits

One possible reason for coughing while vaping is dry hits. This happens when the wick in your atomizer isn’t fully saturated with e-liquid, causing you to inhale a burnt taste. Dry hits can be caused by a variety of factors, including using an old coil, not priming your coil, or vaping at too high a wattage. To avoid dry hits, make sure to always prime your coil before use and replace it regularly.

Nicotine Strength

Another possible cause of coughing while vaping is the nicotine strength in your e-liquid. If the nicotine level is too high, it can cause a harsh throat hit that leads to coughing. To avoid this, try lowering the nicotine level in your e-liquid or switching to a higher VG (vegetable glycerin) blend.

PG Sensitivity

Propylene glycol (PG) is a common ingredient in e-liquids, but some people are sensitive to it. If you’re one of these people, you may experience coughing or throat irritation when vaping. To avoid this, try switching to an e-liquid with a higher VG content or one that uses a different type of flavor carrier.

Inhaling Technique

Finally, your inhaling technique could be causing you to cough while vaping. If you’re inhaling too quickly or too deeply, it can cause irritation in your throat and lungs. Try taking smaller, slower hits and see if that helps alleviate your coughing.

By addressing these potential causes of coughing while vaping, you can enjoy a smoother and more enjoyable vaping experience.

Health Risks Associated with Vaping

Vaping has become a popular alternative to smoking, but it’s important to be aware of the potential health risks associated with it. While vaping is generally considered less harmful than smoking, it is not completely risk-free. Here are some of the health risks associated with vaping:

Respiratory Issues

One of the most common health risks associated with vaping is respiratory issues. Vaping can cause irritation and inflammation in the lungs, leading to coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. The chemicals in e-cigarettes can also damage the delicate tissues in the lungs, making it harder for your body to fight off infections. Some studies have even suggested that vaping can increase the risk of developing chronic lung diseases like bronchitis and emphysema.

Allergic Reactions

Another potential health risk associated with vaping is allergic reactions. E-liquids contain a variety of ingredients, including flavorings, propylene glycol, and vegetable glycerin. While these ingredients are generally considered safe, some people may be allergic to them. Symptoms of an allergic reaction to vaping can include coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop vaping immediately and seek medical attention.

It’s important to remember that while vaping may be less harmful than smoking, it is not completely safe. If you’re experiencing coughing or other respiratory issues while vaping, it’s important to talk to your doctor. They can help you determine whether vaping is the cause of your symptoms and recommend the best course of action.

Preventing Coughing When Vaping

If you’re experiencing coughing when vaping, there are a few things you can do to prevent it. Here are some tips to help you avoid coughing:

Proper Hydration

One of the most common reasons for coughing when vaping is dehydration. Vaping can cause your body to lose water, which can lead to dry mouth and throat irritation. To prevent this, make sure you’re drinking enough water throughout the day. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water per day, and increase your intake if you’re vaping more frequently.

Adjusting Nicotine Levels

Another reason for coughing when vaping is using e-liquids with high nicotine levels. High nicotine levels can cause throat irritation and coughing. If you’re experiencing coughing, try switching to e-liquids with lower nicotine levels. You can also try gradually reducing your nicotine intake until you find a level that works for you.

Changing Inhaling Technique

The way you inhale can also affect whether or not you cough when vaping. If you’re inhaling too deeply or too quickly, you may be taking in too much vapor at once, which can cause coughing. Try inhaling more slowly and taking smaller puffs. This will allow you to get the same amount of vapor, but with less irritation to your throat.

By following these tips, you can prevent coughing when vaping and enjoy a smoother vaping experience. Remember to stay hydrated, adjust your nicotine levels, and change your inhaling technique if needed.