A vape cough feels like a dry, tickling sensation in the throat that triggers coughing. It’s caused by inhaling the vegetable glycerin or propylene glycol in vape juice, which can irritate the throat and lungs.
What causes a vape cough?
There are a few potential causes of a vape cough:
1. PG/VG ratio
Most vape juice contains a mix of vegetable glycerin (VG) and propylene glycol (PG). PG provides more of a “throat hit” while VG produces thicker, more visible vapor. A high PG ratio like 70% PG / 30% VG may irritate the throat more and cause coughing in some vapers. Switching to a higher VG ratio like 30% PG / 70% VG may help.
2. Nicotine strength
Nicotine is another common irritant. Using a lower nicotine strength like 3mg instead of 6mg or 12mg reduces harshness. However, suddenly dropping nic strength can also trigger coughing in regular vapers as the body expects a certain nicotine intake.
3. Flavorings
Certain flavorings, especially cinnamon, mint, or citrus, can irritate the throat and cause coughing when vaping. Try switching flavors or opting for a milder flavor like tobacco or vanilla.
4. PG allergy
A small percentage of people are allergic or sensitive to PG. An PG allergy can cause coughing, along with symptoms like throat irritation, headache, and nausea. Switching to a 100% VG vape juice may help if a PG allergy is suspected.
5. Dehydration
Vaping dehydrates the throat, especially when chain vaping. Not drinking enough water magnifies this effect. Proper hydration is key to avoiding a vape cough.
6. New vaper
For new vapers, a cough is common while getting used to inhaling vapor. Light, intermittent vaping gives the throat time to adjust.
How long does the cough last?
For new vapers, irritative vaping coughs usually fade within 1-2 weeks as the throat adjusts. However, a persistent vape cough lasting longer than a month may indicate an allergy or sensitivity to vaping. Seek medical advice if a cough worsens or persists.
Tips for minimizing a vape cough
Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of water before, during, and after vaping to keep the throat lubricated.
Lower the nicotine strength
Using lower nic levels reduces throat irritation. Drop strength gradually to avoid withdrawal.
Adjust PG/VG ratio
Use higher VG ratios for a smoother throat hit. Max VG blends may help for heavy vapers.
Change flavors
Avoid harsh, acidic flavors. Go for milder blends.
Vape gently
Inhale lightly, don’t overheat coils, and avoid long, frequent puffs. This gives the throat a break.
Check device settings
High wattages and temps also cause irritation. Lower them and take shorter puffs.
Gargle saltwater
Gargling with warm saltwater soothes throat irritation and loosens mucus.
Use cough drops
Cough drops or throat lozenges can temporarily numb irritation.
Take a vaping break
If other remedies fail, stop vaping for a few days to allow the throat to heal.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if you experience:
- Coughing up blood
- Wheezing or shortness of breath
- A cough lasting longer than a month
- Fever, chills, or unexplained weight loss
These require medical evaluation to rule out a lung infection or serious condition. Seek immediate help for coughs accompanied by severe chest pain or difficulty breathing.
Conclusion
A vape cough is common when starting out but normally fades within 1-2 weeks. Stay hydrated, adjust vape settings/flavors, and vape gently to minimize irritation. See a doctor if coughing persists or is accompanied by severe symptoms. With some tweaking, vapers can enjoy their e-cigs smoothly without hacking up a lung!