Throat blisters are small, fluid-filled lesions or sores that can appear on the mucous membranes lining the throat. Many individuals have questions about the potential link between these throat irritations and the act of vaping. This article explores the connection between vaping and perceived throat blisters, examining how vape aerosol components might contribute to throat discomfort, and outlining other common causes of such symptoms.
Vaping and Throat Blisters
Vaping typically does not cause true throat blisters like viral infections do. Instead, it can lead to significant irritation, inflammation, and dryness of the throat, which users might perceive as blister-like symptoms. The inhalation of heated aerosol can cause a drying effect on delicate mucous membranes. This dehydration can result in a raw, scratchy sensation, and in some cases, small, irritated patches that resemble blisters.
The mechanisms behind this irritation involve several factors related to the vaping process. Components like propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG) can draw moisture from the throat, leading to dryness. Flavorings, nicotine, and the heat from the device also act as irritants. These combined effects can manifest as sore spots, raw areas, or small lesions that, while not always true blisters, can feel similar and cause significant discomfort.
Understanding Vape Aerosol Components
The specific components within vape e-liquids play a distinct role in how vaping impacts throat health. Propylene glycol (PG), a common base ingredient in e-liquids, is hygroscopic, meaning it attracts and retains water. When inhaled, PG can draw moisture from the throat’s mucous membranes, leading to sensations of dryness and irritation. This dehydrating effect can contribute to a scratchy throat or a persistent cough.
Vegetable glycerin (VG), another primary e-liquid component, is less irritating than PG but also possesses humectant properties that can contribute to throat dryness, especially in higher concentrations. Beyond the base liquids, flavorings are significant contributors to throat irritation. Certain chemical flavorings, such as cinnamaldehyde and diacetyl, are known irritants that can trigger inflammatory responses. Nicotine, particularly at higher concentrations, also acts as an irritant to the throat and respiratory tract, potentially exacerbating dryness and discomfort. Furthermore, the inherent heat of the vaporized aerosol can physically irritate the throat lining, contributing to overall discomfort and susceptibility to irritation.
Other Reasons for Throat Blisters
While vaping can cause throat irritation that might be perceived as blisters, numerous other conditions more commonly lead to true blisters or similar lesions. Viral infections are a frequent cause, such as herpes simplex virus, which can cause cold sores that sometimes spread to the throat, leading to painful blisters. Hand-foot-and-mouth disease (typically caused by coxsackievirus) often presents with painful sores, including blisters, in the mouth and throat. Herpangina, another viral illness, specifically causes small, blister-like lesions on the soft palate and tonsils.
Bacterial infections, though less common for direct blister formation, can cause severe inflammation and irritation that might mimic blister symptoms, such as strep throat. Allergic reactions to certain foods, medications, or environmental irritants can sometimes manifest as hives or swelling in the throat. Acid reflux disease (GERD) allows stomach acid to repeatedly irritate the throat lining, potentially leading to chronic inflammation and sometimes small, ulcerated areas that resemble blisters. Physical irritation from very hot foods or drinks, ingesting sharp objects, or excessive coughing can also cause trauma to the throat, resulting in sores or raw patches. Lastly, conditions causing chronic dry mouth, whether due to medication side effects or underlying medical issues, can make the throat more vulnerable to irritation and the development of lesions.
When to Consult a Doctor
It is important to seek medical attention if throat blisters or related symptoms persist or worsen. If they do not heal within a few days or appear to be spreading, a healthcare provider should evaluate the condition. Severe pain, difficulty swallowing, or voice changes accompanying throat discomfort also warrant a doctor’s visit.
Other concerning signs include fever, chills, or systemic symptoms indicating an infection. If a rash appears alongside the throat blisters, or other unusual symptoms cause concern, professional medical evaluation is advisable. Consulting a doctor is also prudent if underlying medical conditions could be contributing to symptoms or if the cause of discomfort is uncertain.
—
References
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Herpangina. MedlinePlus.