A sore throat is a common complaint among vapers. Vaping introduces factors that can lead to throat irritation. Understanding the reasons and how to address them can help manage discomfort.
How Vaping Irritates the Throat
Vaping can lead to throat irritation due to e-liquid components and the physical act of vaping. E-liquids typically contain Propylene Glycol (PG), Vegetable Glycerin (VG), flavorings, and often nicotine, each contributing to potential discomfort. Propylene glycol can act as a dehydrating agent, drawing moisture from the mouth and throat, which may result in dryness and a scratchy sensation. Some individuals may also be sensitive or allergic to PG, experiencing irritation or even a burning sensation.
Vegetable glycerin, another base ingredient, is thicker and can produce denser vapor clouds. While generally considered less irritating than PG, VG also possesses hygroscopic properties, meaning it attracts and retains moisture, potentially leading to dryness. Nicotine, especially in higher concentrations, is a known irritant to mucous membranes and can cause a harsh sensation or “throat hit” that contributes to soreness. Certain flavorings within e-liquids, particularly menthol, cinnamon, or citrus profiles, can also be irritating to the throat.
The temperature of the vapor inhaled can also play a role in throat irritation. Higher wattage settings on a device can produce hotter vapor, which may lead to increased irritation and dryness in the throat. Vaping frequently or taking continuous puffs, known as chain vaping, can expose the throat to high temperatures and irritants for extended periods, exacerbating dryness and soreness. Furthermore, a “dry hit” occurs when the coil heats up without sufficient e-liquid, burning the dry cotton wick and producing a harsh, unpleasant, and irritating sensation.
Accompanying Symptoms and When to Seek Help
A sore throat from vaping can be accompanied by other symptoms, such as a dry cough, hoarseness, a feeling of a lump in the throat, or increased thirst. These symptoms often arise from the dehydrating nature of e-liquid components like propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin.
While many instances of sore throat from vaping are temporary, certain warning signs should prompt a consultation with a healthcare professional. If the sore throat is accompanied by a fever, difficulty swallowing, persistent pain that does not improve, swollen glands, or white patches on the tonsils, medical advice is recommended. These symptoms could indicate a more serious underlying condition, such as an infection, that is not solely attributable to vaping. A prolonged sore throat that lasts for more than a week, even after adjusting vaping habits, also warrants medical attention.
Steps to Alleviate and Prevent Sore Throats
Several steps can help alleviate and prevent sore throats associated with vaping. Staying well-hydrated is important, as e-liquid ingredients like PG and VG can draw moisture from the body. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help counteract this dehydrating effect and keep the throat moist.
Adjusting vaping habits can also reduce throat irritation. Reducing the frequency of puffs, taking shorter draws, or avoiding chain vaping allows the throat more time to recover between inhalations. Lowering the wattage settings on your device can produce cooler vapor, which is less irritating to the throat.
Changing e-liquid characteristics can also be beneficial. Opting for e-liquids with a lower Propylene Glycol (PG) content and a higher Vegetable Glycerin (VG) ratio can result in a smoother, gentler vapor. Experimenting with different flavor profiles, moving away from potentially irritating flavors like menthol, cinnamon, or acidic citrus notes, may also help. Additionally, reducing nicotine strength can lessen the harshness of the throat hit.
Proper device maintenance is important for preventing sore throats. Regularly changing coils and ensuring the tank is adequately filled with e-liquid can prevent “dry hits,” which are particularly harsh and irritating. Priming new coils by allowing them to soak in e-liquid before use helps ensure proper saturation and avoids burning. For symptomatic relief, over-the-counter remedies such as lozenges, throat sprays, or gargling with warm salt water can provide temporary comfort. These remedies address the symptoms, but modifying vaping practices is key to long-term prevention.