Vaping has become increasingly popular in recent years as an alternative to smoking cigarettes. However, vaping still exposes users to nicotine and other chemicals that can have short- and long-term health effects. While vaping in moderation may not cause issues for most people, vaping too frequently or at too high of levels can lead to nicotine toxicity and other problems. Here are some signs that may indicate you are vaping too much:
You Feel Nauseous or Dizzy
One of the most common signs of vaping too much is nausea or dizziness. Nicotine overdose can cause these symptoms along with an upset stomach or even vomiting. If you suddenly feel sick after vaping, it likely means you’ve had too much nicotine or are sensitive to the high nicotine levels in vape juices. Reduce your intake and see if the nausea goes away.
You Get the “Vape Sweats”
“Vape sweats” refers to sudden cold sweats that can occur after vaping a lot of nicotine. Along with sweating, you may also notice your skin looks clammy and pale. This is another symptom of nicotine overdose as the chemicals put stress on your body. Drink some water and take a break from vaping to let the symptoms pass.
Your Heart is Racing or Palpitating
A fast or irregular heartbeat is a concerning sign you’ve had too much nicotine or are sensitive to vaping. Nicotine is a stimulant that can increase heart rate and blood pressure. If you notice heart palpitations, chest pain, or an abnormally high heart rate after vaping, put down your device and see a doctor if symptoms persist.
You Feel Anxious or Jittery
One side effect of too much nicotine is anxious feelings and jitters. Nicotine stimulates the release of adrenaline, the “fight or flight” hormone that can also cause anxiety. You may notice your hands shaking or feel very restless and unable to relax. These signs suggest lowering your nicotine intake from vaping.
You Feel Lightheaded or Faint
Dizziness and fainting are other warning signs you may be vaping excessive levels of nicotine. Along with feeling lightheaded, too much nicotine can make you feel weak and unsteady on your feet. If you nearly pass out after vaping, you need to avoid vaping for a while and hydrate yourself to recover.
Your Throat Burns
A burning sensation or pain in your throat after vaping could mean you’re overdoing it. Frequent vaping can irritate the sensitive mucous membranes in the throat. The aerosols and flavorings in e-juice can also provoke throat pain if you vape too often, suggesting it’s time to give your throat a break.
You Have Headaches
Frequent headaches or migraines are a possible sign of a nicotine overdose or vaping too much. Nicotine can dilate blood vessels in the brain, triggering painful headaches in some people. Dehydration from vaping can also cause headaches. Drink water and take a break from vaping if you notice recurring headaches.
You’re Always Thinking About Vaping
Obsessive thoughts about vaping and constantly reaching for your device may mean you’re overdoing it. As with other addictive substances, you can develop psychological and physical dependence to the nicotine in vapes. If vaping interferes with your work or relationships, it has likely become unhealthy.
You Feel Tired and Rundown
Although nicotine acts as a stimulant, too much can leave you feeling tired, sluggish and worn down. This may sound counterintuitive, but vaping excessively can have a paradoxical effect and zap your energy after the initial “buzz” wears off. Listen to your body and take a break if vaping is tiring you out.
You’re Going Through Vape Juice Quickly
If you find yourself blowing through vape juice and constantly needing to refill your device, slow down your usage. Needing to refill vape juice many times a day is usually a red flag you’re vaping very heavily. Track how much liquid you use each day and try cutting back.
You’re Getting Dehydrated
Vaping too frequently can lead to dehydration from the aerosols drying out your mouth and airways. Signs of dehydration include a dry mouth, lips and eyes along with dark yellow pee. Drink plenty of water if vaping a lot and monitor your fluid intake and output.
You Have Sore or Dry Throat and Mouth
A sore, dry or raw feeling throat and mouth can indicate you’re overdoing it with vaping. The propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin in vape juice can irritate and dehydrate the mucosa of your mouth and throat when vaped excessively. Drink fluids and take a break to allow your mouth to recover.
Your Teeth and Gums Hurt
Too much vaping can inflame and irritate your gums and teeth. Some chemicals in vape products increase your risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Tenderness in your teeth and gums suggests cooling it on the vaping and practicing good oral hygiene.
You’re Getting Respiratory Infections
If you’re catching colds, the flu and sinus infections more often, it could be a sign you need to cut back on vaping. Frequent respiratory illnesses indicate vaping may be compromising your lungs’ immune defenses. Let your lungs rest and consider getting a checkup if infections persist.
You Cough Frequently
Chronic coughing is one of the most common symptoms you’re overdoing it with vaping. Exposure to vape chemicals can cause throat irritation and airway inflammation that triggers coughing. A persistent cough when vaping means it’s time to reduce your usage.
You’re Short of Breath
Feeling winded and breathless can also happen if you vape too often and heavily. The chemicals in vape products can inflame and constrict airways, making it harder to breathe. Ease up on vaping if simple activities like walking up stairs make you short of breath.
You Have Chest Pain
Experiencing chest tightness or pain with vaping may indicate you’re overdoing it or having an allergic reaction. Heavy metals and flavorings in vapes can provoke lung and airway irritation that feels like chest pain. See a doctor if the pain persists or worsens when vaping.
Conclusion
Pay attention to signals like nausea, racing heart, headaches and respiratory issues that can indicate you’re overindulging in vaping. The key is to lower your nicotine levels and vape only in moderation, not excess. See a doctor if you experience severe or persistent symptoms that may signal nicotine poisoning or another health issue.