When inhaling cannabis concentrates through a vaporizer, many users encounter a sudden, harsh cough. This is a common physiological response to the density and temperature of the inhaled aerosol. Although vaping avoids the combustion byproducts found in traditional smoke, the concentrated nature of the vapor can still trigger the body’s natural defense mechanisms. This frequent issue can often be resolved by making simple adjustments to technique, hardware settings, and product selection.
Immediate Changes to Inhalation Technique
The way vapor is drawn into the lungs significantly impacts the likelihood of coughing. A small adjustment in technique can make the difference between a smooth and a harsh experience. The most direct way to reduce irritation is to take shorter and shallower draws from the device.
A swift, deep pull, known as Direct-to-Lung (DTL) inhalation, delivers a large volume of concentrated vapor directly to the lower airways, often triggering a reflexive cough. Instead, try the Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) technique. This involves pulling the vapor into the mouth first, holding it briefly, and then inhaling it into the lungs with a breath of fresh air. This two-step process allows the concentrated vapor to cool and dilute before entering the lungs, providing a gentler experience.
The primary goal of inhalation is to absorb cannabinoids, not to hold the vapor in the lungs. Holding the vapor does not substantially increase absorption but exposes the lungs to irritants for a longer period. Immediately exhaling after the briefest pause necessary for the MTL technique minimizes irritation. Also, the aerosol produced by vaporizers is hygroscopic, meaning it draws moisture from the throat and mouth. Taking a sip of water or tea immediately before or after a draw helps counteract this drying effect, providing hydration for the throat.
Understanding Why Vaping Triggers Coughing
Coughing is a defense mechanism the body uses to expel irritants from the respiratory system. When vaping cannabis concentrates, this reflex is provoked by physical and chemical factors. Even though vapor is cleaner than smoke, it still contains tiny particles and concentrated compounds that can irritate the bronchial passages.
The high concentration of cannabinoids and naturally occurring terpenes in the vapor can act as irritants, causing temporary tightening of the airways, known as bronchoconstriction. Furthermore, the vapor’s physical characteristics, such as density and dryness, contribute to harshness. The vapor is often denser and drier than the air the lungs are accustomed to processing, creating a physical shock the body tries to clear through a cough.
Another factor is the temperature at which the concentrate is vaporized. When the heating element is too hot, it can degrade the oil and create irritating compounds, including acrolein and methacrolein. These byproducts are highly irritating to the respiratory system and can be produced even from non-cannabinoid components. The body detects these harsh chemicals and excessive heat, reacting with a forceful cough to protect the airway lining.
Adjusting Your Device and Product Quality
The hardware used and the quality of the cannabis concentrate are major factors that can be adjusted to prevent a cough. Operating the vape battery at an unnecessarily high setting is a common mistake that leads to harsh vapor. High voltage settings generate excessive heat, which degrades the flavor of the oil and produces a hotter, more concentrated, and irritating vapor.
For most cannabis oil cartridges, the optimal voltage range for a smooth experience is between 2.4 and 3.2 volts. Starting at the lowest effective voltage, often around 2.5 volts, allows the user to find the setting that vaporizes the oil without burning the compounds or creating harsh byproducts. Lower temperatures preserve terpenes, resulting in a smoother inhalation.
The quality and composition of the concentrate are equally important, as certain additives can be harsh when inhaled. Users should avoid products containing thinning agents, as these can break down into irritating carbonyl compounds like formaldehyde when heated. It is safer to choose cartridges that contain only pure cannabis extract and naturally derived terpenes. Dry hits, often caused by a burnt coil or a clogged cartridge, produce an extremely harsh, dry vapor. Regular inspection and replacement of coils or cartridges as soon as a burnt taste is detected ensures consistently smooth vapor production.