Vaping devices heat an e-liquid to create a vapor, but inhaling this vapor often leads to an irritating physical reaction known as a “vaping cough.” This phenomenon is common, especially for individuals new to vaping or those transitioning from traditional cigarettes. A cough is the body’s natural defense mechanism, triggered when the respiratory system is irritated, usually due to improper technique or an incompatible device setup. Understanding the factors that cause this irritation, from inhalation method to liquid composition, is the first step toward a smooth, cough-free experience.
Mastering Proper Inhalation Technique
The most immediate cause of coughing is often the way the vapor is drawn into the body, which differs significantly from the drag of a traditional cigarette. New users frequently attempt a sharp, hard pull, which draws too much concentrated vapor into the lungs too quickly, immediately triggering a cough. Instead of a harsh pull, the user should aim for a slow, gentle, and steady draw lasting several seconds to ensure the vapor is smooth and properly cooled.
Mouth-to-Lung (MTL)
Many devices are designed for a Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) technique, which closely mimics the experience of smoking a traditional cigarette. With this method, the user first draws the vapor into the mouth, holds it briefly, and then inhales it into the lungs using a second breath. This two-step approach allows the vapor to cool slightly and concentrates the flavor, making it a smoother experience recommended for beginners and those using higher nicotine strengths.
Direct-to-Lung (DTL)
The alternative is the Direct-to-Lung (DTL) technique, which involves inhaling the vapor straight into the lungs in one continuous, deep breath, much like breathing deeply through a snorkel. This technique is used with lower nicotine e-liquids and high-power devices that have a wide-open airflow. Attempting a DTL inhale on a high-nicotine liquid or a restrictive device will produce a harsh throat hit that results in an immediate cough. Drawing too quickly or forcefully with either technique can also flood the coil, leading to unpleasant spitting that causes a cough.
Optimizing Your Device and E-Liquid Settings
Beyond inhalation technique, the composition of the e-liquid and the device’s power output are factors influencing vapor harshness. The nicotine content and its chemical type directly affect the throat sensation, which is often the source of irritation.
Nicotine Type and Strength
Freebase nicotine, the traditional form, is alkaline and becomes harsh and irritating at strengths above 12mg/mL. Switching to nicotine salts (nic salts) can dramatically reduce this irritation because an added acid lowers the nicotine’s pH level, allowing for a much smoother inhale even at high concentrations. Nicotine salts are recommended for users needing a higher nicotine dose without the aggressive throat hit of freebase nicotine. Adjusting the nicotine level downward, regardless of the type, is a simple and effective way to reduce vapor intensity.
PG/VG Ratio
The ratio of Propylene Glycol (PG) to Vegetable Glycerin (VG) is another setting to consider. PG is thinner and largely responsible for the throat hit sensation. A higher PG content (50% or more) creates a sharper feeling similar to cigarette smoke, which can be irritating and drying. Conversely, VG is a thicker liquid that produces denser vapor and a smoother inhale. To reduce coughing, shift toward e-liquids with a higher VG concentration, such as 70VG/30PG or 80VG/20PG, which are gentler on the throat.
Wattage and Coil Compatibility
The device’s wattage setting must be compatible with the installed coil. Operating the device at a wattage higher than the coil’s recommended range can overheat the liquid. This excessive heat causes the e-liquid to vaporize too quickly, producing an extremely hot and acrid vapor. This is commonly called a “dry hit” and causes an instant, painful cough.
Addressing Hidden Causes of Throat Irritation
A cough can often be traced to overlooked maintenance issues or simple physiological factors. A frequent cause of coughing is a dry or burnt coil, which must be addressed immediately.
Coil Maintenance
When installing a new coil, perform priming by manually applying e-liquid to the exposed cotton wick before filling the tank. After filling, allow the coil to soak for five to ten minutes to ensure the wick is completely saturated and prevent burning upon first use. A coil that has been used too long or overheated will taste burnt and must be replaced immediately, as vaping on a burnt wick irritates the throat.
Airflow and Hydration
The airflow setting also plays a role in vapor temperature and density. Restricted or fully closed airflow causes the vapor to become too hot and concentrated, increasing harshness. Opening the airflow slightly allows more cool air to mix with the vapor, reducing the temperature and making the inhale smoother. Finally, the PG in e-liquid is hygroscopic, meaning it draws moisture from its surroundings. This property can lead to throat dryness and dehydration, which exacerbates irritation and coughing, making increased water intake important while vaping.