When experiencing tonsillitis, it is strongly advised against vaping. Vaping can worsen symptoms and significantly delay the healing process of inflamed tonsils. This is due to the direct irritating effects of the vapor, the specific chemicals contained within vape aerosols, and the overall impact on the body’s ability to recover.
How Vaping Worsens Tonsillitis
Vaping exacerbates inflamed tonsils. The heat produced by vaping devices, combined with the chemicals in the vapor, can further inflame the swollen tonsils, leading to increased pain and discomfort. This continuous irritation prolongs recovery.
The physical act of inhaling vapor can also contribute to the irritation of sensitive throat tissues. This can result in a burning sensation, adding to the existing discomfort of tonsillitis. Vaping can also suppress the immune system, hindering the body’s ability to fight infections.
Vaping with tonsillitis may also increase the risk of complications, such as the infection spreading to other parts of the throat or leading to chronic tonsillitis. Medical professionals advise avoiding vaping or smoking to allow the throat to heal and prevent further aggravation.
Irritating Components of Vape
Vape aerosols contain various ingredients that can act as irritants to the delicate mucous membranes of the throat and respiratory tract. Propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG) form the base of most e-liquids and are known to cause throat irritation and dryness, especially when heated. PG, in particular, can be more irritating and contribute to a scratchy sensation or sore throat for some users.
Beyond the base liquids, flavorings in vape products introduce additional chemical compounds. These flavorings, even if considered safe for consumption, can become toxic or irritating when heated and inhaled, potentially causing inflammation and damage to lung tissue. Some flavorings, such as benzaldehyde (almond flavor) or trans-cinnamaldehyde (cinnamon flavor), are known respiratory irritants.
Nicotine, a common component in many vape liquids, is also an irritant to the throat and can contribute to inflammation. Even “nicotine-free” products may contain trace amounts of nicotine or other harmful chemicals. These various chemicals, when inhaled into an already compromised throat, can intensify the inflammatory response and hinder healing.
Steps for Tonsillitis Recovery
To aid recovery from tonsillitis, several self-care measures can provide relief and support the healing process. Getting ample rest is important, as sleep boosts the immune system, allowing the body to focus its energy on fighting the infection. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, such as warm liquids like tea, broth, or just water, helps keep the throat moist and can soothe discomfort.
Gargling with warm salt water can help reduce inflammation and pain, and may also help cleanse the throat. Dissolve about half a teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water and gargle for several seconds before spitting it out, repeating this several times a day. Sucking on throat lozenges, popsicles, or ice chips can also provide temporary pain relief and help numb the throat.
Avoid irritants that could worsen throat symptoms, including cigarette smoke and vaping. Avoiding hard or sharp foods that might scratch the throat can also prevent further irritation.
When to Seek Medical Care
While many cases of tonsillitis resolve with self-care, certain symptoms warrant medical attention. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist for longer than three to four days or if they worsen despite home remedies. A high fever, especially above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius), is a sign to seek medical advice.
Urgent medical attention is necessary if you experience severe pain that is not relieved by over-the-counter pain relievers, or if you have difficulty swallowing saliva, breathing, or opening your mouth. The presence of pus or white spots on the tonsils, or if one tonsil appears significantly larger than the other, should also prompt a visit to a doctor. These signs could indicate a more severe bacterial infection, such as strep throat, or complications like a peritonsillar abscess, which require specific medical treatment.