Posted on October 11, 2022 by Munchies

Vaping has become a popular alternative to smoking, but many users find themselves surprised by an unexpected side effect: coughing. Whether you’re new to vaping or an experienced user, understanding why vaping sometimes triggers coughing can be key to enjoying a smoother experience. Several factors are at play, from the ingredients in your e-liquid to your inhalation technique. Today, let’s explore the common causes and find practical tips to help you reduce or eliminate coughing while vaping.

Key Takeaways 

  • Improper inhaling methods can contribute to coughing. Using the mouth-to-lung technique and taking smaller, controlled puffs can prevent irritation.
  • High nicotine levels or specific nicotine types can irritate and lead to coughing. Adjusting to a lower nicotine strength or switching to nicotine salt can help reduce this issue.
  • E-liquids with high propylene glycol (PG) can create a strong throat hit, potentially causing dryness and coughing. Opting for a higher vegetable glycerin (VG) content may provide a smoother experience.
  • High power settings can produce hot vapor, causing throat irritation. Adjusting to lower wattage and regularly maintaining the device can help reduce coughing.
  • Using high-quality products free from harsh additives and staying hydrated can minimize coughing. Ensuring product quality and proper inhalation can enhance the overall vaping experience.

Why Does Vaping Make Me Cough?

​Vaping can cause coughing due to several factors, ranging from the ingredients in the e-liquid to how you inhale the vapor.​ Understanding these causes can help you mitigate the issue and enjoy a smoother vaping experience.

Causes of Coughing from Vaping

  • Nicotine Strength – Using an e-liquid with a nicotine strength that is too high for your needs or your device can irritate and lead to coughing. It may produce an overwhelming throat hit that can be more intense than regular smoking.
  • Type of Nicotine – The type of nicotine used in e-liquids can affect the sensation of the throat. Freebase nicotine might cause a scratchy feeling, while nicotine salt tends to be smoother and might reduce coughing.
  • Base Ingredients –  E-liquids contain propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG) as bases, which can cause different sensations. High-PG liquids are known for creating a more pronounced throat hit and can cause dryness, leading to coughing. Switching to a VG-heavy e-liquid might alleviate this issue.
  • Device Power Settings – Your device’s power level can also affect performance. If set too high, the vapor can be hotter and harsher, leading to coughing. Adjusting your device to lower wattages to reduce this effect is beneficial.
  • Inhaling Technique – Individuals who are new to vaping might cough due to improper inhaling techniques. Taking slower, controlled draws is important to allow the vapor to cool down before inhaling it deeply into the lungs.
  • Environmental Adjustment – For those recently switching from smoking to vaping, the coughing might partially be attributed to the lungs beginning to clear out the residue from tobacco smoke. This transition can initially increase coughing as the body adjusts.
  • Coil and Pod Condition – Using a burnt or old coil can lead to a burnt taste that irritates the throat and causes coughing. Replacing the coil or pod helps maintain flavor quality and minimize irritation.

By addressing these potential causes, you can work towards a more comfortable and cough-free vaping experience.

Can You Get Smoker’s Cough From Vaping?

Yes, it is possible to experience symptoms similar to a smoker’s cough from vaping. Several factors contribute to this condition, which is often referred to as “vaper’s cough.” While this condition is not the same as the traditional smoker’s cough caused by prolonged tobacco use, it shares some characteristics due to irritation of the respiratory system.

Similarities Between Smoker’s Cough and Vaper’s Cough

  • Irritants Present in Both Smoking and Vaping –  Vaping involves inhaling vaporized e-liquid, which contains substances like nicotine, cannabis, flavorings, and other chemicals that can irritate the respiratory tract, similar to smoking tobacco.
  • Symptoms and Manifestation—Both can lead to persistent coughing, phlegm production, and throat irritation. This is because inhaling various chemicals in smoke and vapor leads to inflammation and irritation in the airways.

Specific Causes of Vaper’s Cough

  • Flavorings and Additives – Certain flavorings and additives used in e-liquids can irritate. Chemicals such as diacetyl, linked to lung damage, are sometimes present in flavored e-liquids.
  • Propylene Glycol Content—High levels of propylene glycol in e-liquids can lead to throat irritation and coughing. It is a common cause of the “throat hit” sensation desired by many vapers, but it can be harsh on the throat.
  • Device Settings and Technique – Vaping and device settings are also critical. High-power settings can produce hotter vapor that causes throat irritation. Poor inhalation techniques, particularly for new vapers transitioning from smoking, can exacerbate coughing.

Considerations in the Transition from Smoking to Vaping

  • Adjustment Period – As a person transitions from smoking to vaping, there may be an adjustment period where their lungs begin to clear out the tar from cigarette smoke, potentially increasing coughing in the short term.
  • Long-term Effects – While the full long-term respiratory effects of vaping are still under study, initial findings suggest that vaping can cause respiratory issues similar to those of smoking, although the mechanisms might differ.

How to Hit a Cart Without Coughing

To hit a cart without coughing, it is essential to focus on factors such as device settings, vaping technique, and product quality. These elements can help you enjoy a smoother vaping experience without irritation. 

Device and Settings

  • Device Temperature—Ensure your device is set to an optimal temperature. If it’s too high, the distillate might burn and irritate your throat and lungs, causing you to cough. Adjust the settings to achieve a balance that vaporizes the liquid without burning it.
  • Device Compatibility – Match your cartomizer with the correct battery and ensure all components function properly. Malfunctions or mismatched parts can cause excessive power delivery and harsh vapor.

Vaping Technique

  • Inhale Slow and Steady – Avoid taking rapid and deep hits. Instead, draw vapor into your mouth first (mouth-to-lung technique) before inhaling it into your lungs. This allows the vapor to cool and reduces throat irritation, lowering the risk of coughing.
  • Take Smaller Puffs – Long and intense drags can overwhelm your throat. Opt for shorter, gentler puffs and take breaks between hits to allow your body to recover.

Quality of Product

  • Check Ingredients—Use high-quality vape cartridges free from harmful additives such as propylene glycol, which can cause irritation and coughing. If possible, opt for products with more natural ingredients.
  • Select Lower Potency – If coughing persists, consider using less potent concentrates as they might be easier on the lungs.

Additional Tips

  • Stay Hydrated – Drink water before and during vaping sessions to keep your throat lubricated, which can help reduce coughing from dryness.
  • Monitor Allergies – Ensure you are not allergic to any component in the vape liquid, like certain flavorings or nicotine, as they may induce coughing.

How To Properly Hit a Cart

To properly hit a vape cart and ensure a smooth experience without coughing or irritation, it’s important to follow proper techniques and guidelines. This involves preparing the device, adjusting the settings, and using the correct inhalation method.

Preparing Your Vape Cart

  • Attach the Cartridge –  Ensure your vape cartridge is properly attached to the battery. Most cartridges come with a standard 510-threaded connection that you should screw onto the battery until it is finger-tight. Avoid over-tightening to prevent damage to the threads or obstruction in airflow.
  • Remove Protective Covers—Before use, remove any silicone or plastic cover from the mouthpiece to ensure unobstructed airflow and prevent dust from contaminating it.

Device Settings and Maintenance

  • Check Battery Power—Ensure the battery is charged sufficiently to deliver a consistent power level. This ensures the vape heats the oil evenly for smooth vapor production. 
  • Clean the Contacts – Regular cleaning of the connection points between the cartridge and the battery can prevent clogs and ensure optimal performance. This can be done using a cotton swab and a small amount of alcohol.

Inhalation Techniques

  • Prime the Cartridge—Sometimes, it can be helpful to “prime” your cartridge by taking a few short puffs without inhaling initially. This helps the oil flow smoothly to the coil and heat the oil evenly.
  • Inhale Slowly and Steadily—Use a mouth-to-lung technique, drawing the vapor into your mouth and then inhaling it into your lungs. Slow, controlled inhales help ensure that the vapor cools slightly before reaching the throat, reducing the chances of irritation.
  • Take Smaller Hits Initially – Especially when new to vaping or using a potent cartridge, start with smaller hits to gauge your tolerance and avoid overwhelming your throat and lungs.

Quality of the Product

  • Use High-Quality Products – Always opt for cartridges from reliable sources that do not contain harmful additives. Lower-quality e-liquids might contain irritants that can lead to throat discomfort and coughing. 

​Following these steps, you can properly hit a vape cart and enjoy its benefits with minimal discomfort.​ Always store your vape carts appropriately and maintain the device for the best experience.

Final Thoughts 

Vaping-induced coughing can stem from various factors, including nicotine strength, base ingredients, device settings, and technique. Understanding and addressing these issues can minimize discomfort and promote a smoother vaping experience. 

Adjusting to the right e-liquid, optimizing device settings, using proper inhalation techniques, and choosing high-quality products are key to reducing coughing. A short adjustment period is normal for new vapers as the body adapts. Being mindful of these aspects can make vaping more enjoyable while mitigating irritation.

(Disclaimer reminder: This article is not medical advice. It is based on anecdotal user experience alone. If you are thinking about incorporating cannabis (delta-8 THC, delta-9 THC, CBD, etc) into your medicinal routine, please consult a healthcare professional. Do not stop taking any prescribed medications without first consulting your doctor.)

Disclaimer: This article reflects the laws of the United States at the time it was written. Because cannabis laws in the United States laws are subject to change at any time, please make sure that you are always staying up to date on your federal, state, and local county’s cannabis laws. Additionally, we are NOT encouraging anyone to break the law––we are simply showing people ways to legally and discreetly bring their cannabis products along with them on their travels so that they may have access to those products when they reach their intended destination.

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