For many people switching from smoking to vaping, that first inhale can bring a surprise, a sharp cough. Even seasoned vapers may experience a tickle or irritation in their throat, which can lead to coughing fits. This can feel confusing, especially when vaping is often described as a smoother and less harsh alternative to smoking.
So, why do some vapes make you cough while others don’t? The answer lies in a mix of factors, from the type of e-liquid and nicotine strength to the device settings and your personal inhaling technique. Understanding these elements not only helps you enjoy a smoother vape but also keeps your throat and lungs comfortable.
Let’s explore the real reasons behind that annoying vape cough and how you can easily fix it.
Coughing while vaping is a common issue, especially for beginners. The underlying causes can vary from physical irritation to how your device delivers vapour. Here are the main reasons:
Nicotine can cause throat irritation when used at high concentrations. If your e-liquid has a strong nicotine level, particularly in freebase form, the throat hit can feel too harsh, triggering coughing.
Many smokers transitioning to vaping make the mistake of using the same puffing technique. Cigarette smoke is thinner than vapour, so drawing too quickly or too deeply can cause discomfort and coughing.
PG is one of the main ingredients in e-liquids. It helps create throat hit and carries flavour effectively, but for some users, PG can feel drying or irritating, especially in high-PG blends.
When a vape coil overheats due to low e-liquid levels or excessive wattage, it produces “dry hits.” These hits feel hot and harsh, often leading to immediate coughing.
Vaping naturally draws moisture from your mouth and throat. Without proper hydration, this dryness can exacerbate irritation, leading to a cough after repeated inhalation.
The ingredients in your e-liquid play a major role in how smooth or harsh your vaping experience feels. Two main components propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerine (VG) determine the vapour density, throat hit, and flavour.
High-PG blends deliver stronger throat hits, which can be satisfying to ex-smokers but may irritate the throat for others.
VG is thicker and smoother, producing denser vapour and a milder hit. If your vape makes you cough, switching to a high-VG e-liquid can make a big difference.
A 70/30 VG-to-PG ratio is a good balance for those seeking smoothness without losing flavour intensity.
Not all nicotine is the same. The form of nicotine used in your e-liquid significantly affects how it feels when you inhale.
This traditional form is used in most standard e-liquids. It offers a noticeable throat hit that mimics cigarettes, but at higher strengths, it can be harsh, especially for new vapers.
Nic salts are smoother and more easily absorbed by the body. They deliver nicotine efficiently without the roughness of freebase liquids. If coughing is an issue, switching to nic salts may reduce irritation and improve comfort.
Your vape device’s settings also play a vital role in how your vapour feels. Using too much power or incorrect airflow can make the vapour hotter and harsher.
High wattage produces more vapour and heat, which can overwhelm your throat and cause coughing. Try lowering the wattage to achieve a cooler, smoother draw.
Restricted airflow increases vapour concentration per puff. Opening the airflow slightly allows air to mix better with vapour, making each inhale smoother.
Balancing wattage and airflow ensures your vapour stays at a comfortable temperature without losing flavour.
How you inhale your vapour makes a massive difference in your comfort level. There are two main vaping styles:
MTL mimics cigarette smoking. You draw vapour into your mouth first, then inhale into your lungs. It’s ideal for beginners and works best with low-power devices and higher nicotine strengths.
DTL involves inhaling vapour straight into your lungs, similar to taking a deep breath. This style uses low-nicotine e-liquids and high-power devices, producing dense clouds but a lighter throat hit.
Using the wrong technique for your setup often leads to coughing. For instance, using DTL draws on a high-nicotine MTL device can overwhelm your throat instantly.
Your vape coil plays a key role in vapour quality. A worn-out or burnt coil changes the flavour, temperature, and texture of the vapour.
Signs that your coil needs replacing include:
A burnt or metallic taste
Reduced vapour production
Increased coughing or throat irritation
Changing your coil regularly every 1 to 2 weeks, depending on usage, ensures clean, smooth vapour and prevents throat discomfort.
Even experienced vapers sometimes forget the basics. Here are some of the most common mistakes that lead to coughing:
Chain Vaping Too Quickly: Taking consecutive puffs without pause doesn’t allow your coil to re-saturate, producing dry hits.
Holding Vapour Too Long: Unlike cigarette smoke, vapour doesn’t need to linger in your lungs. A short, gentle inhale and exhale are enough.
Using Old or Expired E-Liquid: Stale e-liquids can taste harsh and cause irritation. Always check the expiry date before use.
Not Cleaning the Device: Residue buildup in your tank or mouthpiece can restrict airflow and create a harsher draw.
Ignoring Hydration: Regular water intake helps maintain moisture in your throat and reduces irritation.
If you’re tired of coughing every time you vape, try these simple, proven fixes:
If your e-liquid is too strong, switch to a lower nicotine level. Gradual reduction often eliminates harshness and coughing.
Nic salts provide a smoother experience and are absorbed more efficiently, reducing the throat hit that often triggers coughing.
Opt for e-liquids with a higher VG ratio (like 70/30 VG/PG) for smoother, thicker vapour.
Experiment with your device’s settings. Looser airflow and moderate wattage can make your vapour cooler and easier to inhale.
Inhale gently instead of pulling hard. Short, slow puffs are smoother and less likely to irritate the throat.
Keep a bottle of water nearby. Regular sips prevent dryness caused by PG and nicotine.
Clean your tank, replace coils regularly, and ensure your e-liquid level never drops too low to prevent burnt hits.
Occasional coughing from vaping is common, especially when adjusting to new devices or e-liquids. However, if you experience persistent coughing, shortness of breath, or chest tightness, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional. These symptoms may indicate an underlying sensitivity, allergy, or respiratory condition that requires attention.
Remember: vaping should not cause ongoing discomfort. If it does, you may need to reconsider your setup or stop vaping temporarily to allow your body to recover.
Coughing is a natural reflex, your body’s way of protecting the airways from irritation. When vapour enters the lungs, the respiratory system reacts to the change in temperature, moisture, and composition.
Scientific explanations include:
Vapour temperature sensitivity: Sudden temperature changes can activate cough receptors.
Osmotic effects of PG: PG draws moisture from tissues, triggering dryness and irritation.
Nicotine’s effect on receptors: High nicotine stimulates sensory nerves, increasing cough reflex sensitivity.
Understanding this biological reaction helps you tailor your vaping style and liquid choice to your comfort level.
Coughing when vaping isn’t a sign that you’re doing something wrong; it’s simply your body’s way of reacting to change. From nicotine levels to PG/VG ratios and inhalation techniques, many small factors can affect how your throat responds.
The good news is that a vape cough is almost always fixable. By tweaking your settings, adjusting your e-liquid, and keeping hydrated, you can transform your vaping experience into something smooth, flavourful, and enjoyable.
Ultimately, the best vape is the one that fits your body’s comfort level, not just your taste preferences. Listen to your throat, experiment wisely, and let your experience guide you to that perfect, cough-free inhale.
