Vaping can be a truly enthralling experience while playing around with new flavors and e-juice varieties. It is a hassle-free way of dosing on nicotine as well. While the process has several advantages over traditional methods of nicotine use, it is also prone to inducing some problems. For example, an increasing number of vapers complain about suffering from a sore throat after vaping. It is one of the most unpleasant effects that could ruin the entire experience.
Vapers refer to the itchy or unsettling feeling in the throat as the cobblestone effect. The irritation causes excess mucus production that leads to soreness and pain in the throat. So, what causes this problem? While here are a few reasons why you could be suffering from throat irritation post vaping. We will also explore some effective ways to overcome the problem and precautions to avoid them in the future.
What Causes Throat Irritation?
Vaping attracts a versatile spectrum of users. Apart from those trying to quit smoking, it is also appropriate for new users who want to enjoy the trend with flavorful nicotine-free vape juices. But throat irritation could be a set back for any vape user as it degrades the experience. So what could cause this effect?
Too Much Nicotine
The transition from other methods of nicotine usage to vaping could be quite challenging. Vaping offers more control over nicotine dosage compared to other means. But identifying the perfect dosage or concentration can be difficult for a novice user. Make sure to try vape juice from authentic vape shops such as Vape & Juice.
Many new vapers try vaping for the first time and feel unsatisfied with the throat hit. They directly jump to much higher nicotine content to match smoking, which contributes to the harsh throat hit and irritation. Going overboard with nicotine usage can also have adverse effects on the body and elevate the chances of developing a respiratory illness.
Too Much Propylene Glycol
Propylene Glycol or PG is a common constituent of vape juices. It is a primary ingredient that provides the throat hit or the sensation in the throat you experience while smoking. The chemical ensures that the flavors of the e-juice feel more pronounced. It acts as a suspension liquid for the nicotine and flavor concentrate in the e-liquid.
E-liquids could carry up to 92% propylene glycol, based on the brand. Dry and sore throat is a very common side effect of inhaling PG. Hence higher the PG concentration, the higher the chances of suffering from throat irritation.
Inhaling Dry Hits
Dry hits are a common cause of throat irritation. Your e-liquid follows a path from the tank to the wick through the coil for vaporization. When you refill your tank after cleaning or when the liquid levels are deficient in the tank, the chances of your wick being dry are very high.
Firing up your device in this condition causes the wick and the coil to burn out. The vapors might create a hot burning or stinging sensation in the throat. It will also ruin the flavors of your e-juice.
Improper Vaping Techniques
Vape devices have evolved over the past few years. They have become simplistic and intuitive for novice vapers to use. But the transition from smoking to vaping can be challenging. It takes a while to adapt to the drawing techniques while using a vape device.
If you draw from a vape device the same way you do while smoking, a throat irritation seems almost inevitable. The sudden rush of chemicals from the e-liquid could irritate the throat and cause a burning sensation.
How To Stop The Irritation?
There are a few simple tips you can follow to combat the sore throat and irritation.
Reduce Nicotine and PG Content
Start by reducing the nicotine concentration of your e-liquid. Choose a smaller dosage to see if the irritation goes away. It might take a while before you get the same satisfaction as that from smoking, but the experience will be smoother and better.
Similarly, switch to e-juices rich in VG concentration. Reducing the PG ratio in the juice could significantly reduce the intensity of the throat hit.
Practice The Mouth to Lung Vaping Technique
The mouth to lung technique is the best way to start your vaping journey. The method involves taking slow draws from the vape and holding it in your mouth for a short time before taking it into the lungs. The technique is known to reduce throat irritation and cough as the vapor's slow transition does not irritate the passage too much.
Once you learn the nuances of the technique, you can switch to the direct to lung method, which is quite beneficial and satisfying.
Hydrate
Very often, the reason behind a sore throat or irritation is simple dehydration. E-juices are nothing but chemicals in an alcoholic base. Therefore, inhaling them could create a dehydrating effect on the throat. The heat from the device furthers the effect causing irritation and pain.
A simple solution to avoid this side effect is to hydrate regularly. Keep a bottle of water near you during vaping. Drink water immediately after vaping to soothe your throat.
Continuous vaping could also cause your throat and mouth to feel dry. Make sure to take ample breaks between vaping sessions to avoid discomfort.
Conclusion
Be patient and embrace the learning curve. It might take you a few tries before you get more comfortable with vaping. Don’t break your commitment to the habit too soon because of one problem. Utilize these tips to overcome the problems that could induce throat irritation and enjoy a fun and fulfilling vaping session.
