Coughing immediately after using a vape is a common reaction, often called a “vaping cough” or throat hit. This response is particularly prevalent among individuals new to vaping or those who have recently adjusted their device settings or e-liquid composition. The cough is an involuntary defensive reflex triggered by the respiratory system attempting to clear an inhaled irritant. The underlying cause is usually related to the chemical makeup of the vapor combined with the user’s inhalation technique.
Chemical and Physical Irritants in Vapor
The majority of e-liquids contain two primary ingredients: Propylene Glycol (PG) and Vegetable Glycerin (VG). PG is a thin, liquid base known for its hygroscopic nature, meaning it draws moisture from its surroundings. When PG-heavy vapor is inhaled, it pulls moisture from the mucosal lining of the throat and airways, leading to temporary dryness and irritation that triggers the cough reflex.
Nicotine acts as a significant irritant, and its form and concentration play a large role in the harshness of the vapor. Freebase nicotine, the traditional form, is alkaline and delivers a sharp sensation, or “throat hit,” especially at higher strengths. Nicotine salts, in contrast, are formulated with an acid to reduce the alkalinity, resulting in a much smoother inhale even at elevated nicotine concentrations.
Flavoring compounds can also contribute to the irritation. Certain flavor chemicals are particularly harsh on the respiratory tract. For example, cinnamaldehyde, the chemical responsible for cinnamon flavor, has been studied for its potential to impair the function of cilia, the small, hair-like structures that help clear mucus from the airways. Other compounds, such as diacetyl in buttery flavors, have also been linked to inflammatory responses in the lungs.
Vaping Technique and Device Factors
The way vapor is inhaled dramatically influences the likelihood of coughing. The two main styles are Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) and Direct-to-Lung (DTL) inhalation. DTL vaping involves drawing the vapor straight into the lungs in a deep fashion, which can overwhelm the airways of inexperienced users and cause a sharp cough.
MTL, which more closely mimics the draw of a traditional cigarette, is generally less harsh because the vapor is held briefly in the mouth before being fully inhaled. The physical volume and concentration of vapor inhaled during a DTL draw is significantly greater, which explains why the body’s defensive reflex is activated more easily.
Device settings, particularly the temperature and power output, also affect vapor quality. Setting the device wattage too high causes the coil to overheat the e-liquid, producing vapor that is excessively hot or dry. This overly heated vapor can feel abrasive and potentially damage the mucosal lining of the airways, which leads to irritation and a reflexive cough. Airflow management is another factor, as restricted airflow can cause the vapor to become more concentrated and warmer, increasing the harshness of the inhaled aerosol.
Simple Adjustments to Minimize Irritation
A straightforward way to reduce throat irritation is by making changes to the e-liquid composition. Since Propylene Glycol is the primary irritant, switching to an e-liquid with a higher Vegetable Glycerin ratio (more VG, less PG) results in a smoother vapor. Lowering the nicotine strength is also highly effective, as harshness correlates directly with the concentration of nicotine.
If a high nicotine level is required, switching from freebase nicotine to nicotine salts can eliminate much of the harshness due to the lower alkalinity of the salt formulation. Users can also adjust the power setting by lowering the wattage to a level within the coil’s recommended range. This ensures the e-liquid is vaporized at a cooler temperature, making the inhale less abrasive.
Changing the inhalation speed and ensuring adequate hydration are important behavioral adjustments. Taking slower, gentler puffs, especially when using a DTL setup, allows the lungs to acclimate to the vapor volume. Since PG is hygroscopic, consistently drinking water can counteract the dehydrating effect on the throat and mouth, preventing the dryness that triggers the cough. Regularly replacing or priming the coil prevents the harsh taste and irritation caused by a burnt or dry wick.
When the Cough Signals a Bigger Problem
While most vaping-related coughing is benign irritation, a persistent cough or one accompanied by other symptoms may indicate a more serious underlying health issue. Seek professional medical evaluation if the cough lasts for weeks, worsens over time, or is present even when you are not vaping.
Specific warning signs that necessitate immediate medical attention include:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Fever and chills
- Gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain, particularly when combined with respiratory distress
- Coughing up blood
These symptoms can suggest an inflammatory response or acute lung injury related to the inhaled substances.