An unexpected and harsh cough is something that many vapers report experiencing right after switching from smoking. So if you started coughing right after your first puff on an e-cigarette, you’re not alone. It’s a common occurrence, and in the vast majority of cases, the irritation is only temporary. This article answers the question “Why does vaping make me cough?” and explains the main reasons behind what is commonly known as “vaper’s cough”. Moreover, you’ll learn several easy and practical fixes to help you vape more comfortably, especially when starting.
Why Vaping Might Feel Harsher Than Smoking
It might come as a surprise to many that one can have the sensation of coughing more from vaping than from smoking. It is a paradox when one considers that vaping is a considerably safer alternative to cigarettes. The following factors serve to explain this phenomenon.
- Lack of Anaesthetics: Traditional cigarette smoke contains chemical additives. These are added to make the smoke feel smoother on the throat and to suppress the body’s natural cough reflex. You won’t find these anaesthetics in e-cigarette vapour. This might explain why your throat and lungs have a pronounced reaction to inhaled vapour.
- Lung Recovery: Smoking damages the tiny, hair-like structures in the airways called cilia. These help clear mucus and debris. When you stop smoking and transition to vaping, these cilia begin to heal and regrow. As they become active again, they start moving built-up tar and mucus out of your lungs. This has been known to cause a “functional” or purposeful cough. This is actually a sign of recovery.
- Different Inhalation Technique: The way you inhale a cigarette often differs from how you inhale a vape. So if someone is new to vaping, they are likely to take short, sharp puffs and inhale extra air with the vapour. It can trigger coughing. Experienced vapers, on the other hand, typically take slower and more controlled draws.
Common Reasons Behind Vaper’s Cough
Beyond the initial adjustment period, specific elements of your vape setup could be causing irritation.
- E-Liquid Ingredients (PG vs. VG): Propylene Glycol (PG) is a common base liquid that carries flavour and provides a “throat hit.” However, it is known to be a throat irritant, and an estimated 10% of people may be sensitive to it. Vegetable Glycerin (VG), on the other hand, feels smoother and results in much thicker clouds.
- Nicotine Strength and Type: If your vape juice, in its “freebase” form, is high in nicotine, you will feel a harsh sensation at the back of your throat. That is not the case with nicotine salts (the type used in the most popular vape flavours). You can use higher-strength nic salts, but without any harshness.
- Device Power and Style: High-powered devices, especially Direct-to-Lung (DTL) kits or sub-ohm mods, vaporise e-liquid very quickly. So, if you’re new to using a high-nicotine juice in these devices, it will overwhelm your throat and can lead to coughing.
- Dehydration: Both PG and VG are humectants. They attract and absorb water molecules. This is what causes the dry mouth and throat feeling. It, in turn, increases irritation and can make you cough.
Easy Fixes to Stop Coughing When You Vape
You can solve most coughing issues with a few simple adjustments. Vaping is not risk-free, but these tips can make the experience more comfortable as you move away from smoking.
Master Your Inhalation Technique
Avoid short, sharp puffs. Instead, try a slow and steady draw directly into your mouth (like drawing on a cigar), hold it for a moment, and then inhale smoothly into your lungs. Experiment with the speed sometimes a faster or slower draw can make a big difference.
Adjust Your E-liquid
- Switch your PG/VG ratio: If you’re using a standard 50/50 blend, try an e-liquid with higher VG content (e.g., 70% VG or higher). VG is smoother and less irritating for most people.
- Lower your nicotine strength: If you’re using a high-strength freebase nicotine (e.g., 12mg or 18mg), try stepping down a level.
- Consider nicotine salts: Nicotine salts (often found in pod systems) allow for a satisfying nicotine intake with significantly less throat harshness.
Optimise Your Device Setup
- Reduce the power: If your device has adjustable wattage, turn it down. Less power means less heat and a gentler vapour.
- Choose the right device: If you’re new to vaping or a former heavy smoker, a lower-wattage starter kit or pod system designed for Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) vaping will feel more familiar and be less likely to cause coughing than a large, high-powered mod.
Stay Hydrated and Maintain Your Gear
- Drink plenty of water before, during, and after vaping to counteract the dehydrating effects of PG and VG.
- Replace worn-out coils. A burnt or old coil will produce a harsh, unpleasant taste and can irritate your throat. Regular coil changes are essential for a smooth experience.
Shop Vapes That Don’t Hit Harsh
So, vaping might make some people cough, but it goes away soon. By understanding the causes and methodically trying these solutions, you can typically find a comfortable vaping setup. You can buy vapes online in the UK or look for a reputable vape shop where you live. The goal is to find what works for your body, allowing you to move away from the thousands of harmful chemicals found in cigarette smoke.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal to cough when I first start vaping?
Yes, it is very common. Surveys show that while most new vapers initially cough, the vast majority (over 90%) find the problem disappears as their body adjusts and they refine their technique.
Could I be allergic to something in my vape juice?
While true allergies are rare, sensitivity to ingredients is possible. Propylene Glycol (PG) is the most common irritant. If you suspect a sensitivity, try switching to a high-VG e-liquid. If problems like rash, itching, or breathing difficulties occur, stop use and consult a doctor.
My cough is persistent and brings up phlegm. What does this mean?
If you’ve recently quit smoking, this is often part of the lung’s natural cleaning process. Your regenerating cilia are working to clear out old tar and mucus. This should subside after a few weeks. However, if you have a persistent cough, chest pain, or shortness of breath, you should consult a healthcare professional to rule out other causes.
Can vaping cause chest pain?
Yes, vaping can sometimes cause temporary chest discomfort, often due to the "throat hit" sensation or adjusting to the vapour. It's usually not serious.
