Vaping can cause a sore throat, a common complaint among electronic cigarette users. This irritation often manifests as dryness, scratchiness, or general soreness.
Reasons Vaping Can Cause a Sore Throat
One primary reason for throat irritation from vaping involves the humectant properties of e-liquid ingredients. Propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG), the main components of e-liquids, are hygroscopic substances, meaning they attract and absorb moisture from their surroundings. When inhaled, these compounds can draw water from the mucous membranes lining the throat, leading to dehydration and a sensation of dryness or irritation.
Nicotine itself can also act as an irritant to the delicate tissues of the throat. Higher concentrations of nicotine in e-liquids may increase this irritating effect, potentially exacerbating soreness. The presence of certain flavoring chemicals in e-liquids contributes to throat discomfort. Specific flavorings, such as diacetyl, often found in buttery or creamy flavors, and cinnamaldehyde, used for cinnamon notes, have been identified as potential irritants or allergens that can cause inflammation in some individuals.
Vaping technique plays a role in throat irritation. Aggressive or frequent vaping, as well as taking excessively long draws, can expose the throat to a continuous stream of vapor, leading to mechanical irritation. Device malfunctions can also cause problems. A “dry hit” occurs when the coil is not adequately saturated with e-liquid, heating dry cotton or a burnt coil, which produces harsh, acrid vapor highly irritating to the throat.
What to Do for a Vaping-Related Sore Throat
Addressing a vaping-related sore throat often begins with adequate hydration. Drinking plenty of water helps counteract the dehydrating effects of e-liquid ingredients, keeping mucous membranes moist and comfortable.
Adjusting your e-liquid can also provide relief. Switching to e-liquids with a higher vegetable glycerin (VG) content (70% VG or higher) can reduce throat dryness, as VG is less drying than propylene glycol. Opting for lower nicotine strengths or avoiding irritating flavors like strong cinnamons or creams might also alleviate symptoms.
Modifying vaping habits can make a significant difference. Reducing the frequency of vaping sessions, taking shorter puffs, or allowing more time between draws can give your throat a chance to recover. Proper device maintenance is also important; regularly changing coils and ensuring your tank is adequately filled helps prevent dry hits. Common remedies like sipping warm beverages, using throat lozenges, or gargling with warm salt water can provide symptomatic relief. Taking a temporary break from vaping may be beneficial if symptoms persist.
When to Seek Medical Advice
If a sore throat persists for more than a few days despite self-care, consult a healthcare professional. Continuing discomfort might indicate an underlying issue requiring medical evaluation. Seek medical attention if throat pain intensifies or spreads, as worsening symptoms can signal a more serious condition.
Be attentive to any accompanying symptoms that might appear with your sore throat. These include fever, chills, body aches, difficulty swallowing, or swollen glands in the neck. Difficulty breathing alongside a sore throat warrants immediate medical evaluation. Any new or unusual lumps or growths in the throat or neck area should also be promptly assessed by a doctor to rule out any serious conditions.