Vaping Makes Me Cough More Than Smoking: Why & What to Do

If vaping makes you cough more than smoking did, you may wonder why the switch feels harsher. Coughing is a common side effect of vaping, and it can happen because of throat irritation, nicotine strength, the way you inhale or the type of e-liquid and device you use.

For some people, the problem starts after changing to a new vape, flavour or nicotine strength. Others may cough because they take a deep or fast puff that feels too harsh.

If you have recently switched from cigarettes, your vaping experience can also feel different from smoking. This guide explains why vaping makes me cough, what may be causing it and what you can do to make vaping more comfortable. It also covers whether vaping causes chest pain, how e-liquid flavours can affect your experience and when you should seek medical advice.

Why Does Vaping Make Me Cough?

Vaping can make you cough when the aerosol irritates your throat or airways. The NHS lists coughing, dry mouth and throat, mouth and throat irritation and shortness of breath among common side effects of vaping.

The cause is not always the same for everyone. A nicotine strength that feels too strong, a harsh e-liquid, an unsuitable device setting or the way you take a puff can all affect how vaping feels. If you are new to vaping, you may also need time to get used to the sensation.

Common Reasons Vaping Makes You Cough

If you are asking why does vaping make me cough, the reason may be something simple in your vape setup or the way you use it. Here are some of the most common causes.

Nicotine Strength Is Too High

A high nicotine strength can give you a strong throat hit that feels harsh and triggers coughing. This can be more noticeable if you are new to vaping or have changed to a stronger e-liquid.

Your Inhaling Technique

Vaping does not feel exactly like smoking. Taking a fast, sharp or very deep puff can send too much vapour into your throat at once. Try taking slower and gentler puffs instead.

PG Can Feel Harsh

Propylene glycol, or PG, helps carry flavour and gives e-liquid more throat hit. Some people find higher PG liquids feel dry or irritating, which may make them cough.

The Flavour Does Not Suit You

Flavourings can also affect how a vape feels. Strong menthol, ice, cinnamon and some other flavours may feel harsh for certain users. Even popular vape flavours are not guaranteed to suit everyone.

Your Coil Needs Changing

An old, damaged or poorly saturated coil can produce a burnt or unpleasant hit. If your vape suddenly starts making you cough after tasting burnt, check the coil and replace it if needed.

Your Device Is Too Powerful

Using more power than your coil is designed for can make the vapour hotter and harsher. Always stay within the recommended wattage range for your coil and device.

Can Vaping Make You Cough More Than Smoking?

Yes, some people may cough more after switching from smoking to vaping. This does not mean vaping is more harmful than smoking. Cigarettes produce smoke from burning tobacco, while vapes heat e-liquid to create an aerosol, so the sensation can feel different.

If you have recently switched from cigarettes, it may take some time to get used to vaping. The way you inhale and the amount of vapour you take in can also make the experience feel different.

Can Vape Flavours Make You Cough?

Some vape flavours may feel harsher on your throat than others. Strong menthol, ice or certain sweet flavours can feel intense, especially if you are new to vaping. If one flavour makes you cough but another feels comfortable, the flavour may be part of the reason.

The most popular vape flavours in the UK include fruit, menthol and mint. However, a flavour being popular does not mean it will suit everyone. Different people can find the same e-liquid smooth, strong or irritating.

Can Vaping Cause Chest Pain?

If you are searching can vaping cause chest pain, it is important to remember that chest pain can have many possible causes. These can include muscle strain, heartburn, chest infections and other health conditions.

Vaping can cause coughing, throat irritation and shortness of breath in some people. If you notice chest discomfort after vaping, stop and pay attention to your symptoms rather than continuing to vape through the pain.

Sudden or severe chest pain needs urgent medical attention. Get emergency help if chest pain does not go away, feels tight or heavy, spreads to your arm, neck, jaw or back, or happens with severe breathing difficulty, sweating, nausea or dizziness.

What To Do If Vaping Makes You Cough?

If vaping makes you cough, start by checking your vape setup and how you use it. Small changes may make the experience more comfortable.

Use A Gentler Puff

Take slower, gentler puffs instead of deep or fast draws. If you are new to vaping, choosing a simple device can also make it easier to manage your inhale and vapour production. You can explore best Vape Kits for beginners if you are looking for a straightforward starter option.

Check Your Vape Setup

Make sure your coil is properly saturated and replace it if it tastes burnt. If your device has adjustable wattage or airflow, stay within the recommended settings for your coil.

Try A Different E-Liquid

If a particular e-liquid feels harsh, trying another flavour or PG and VG balance may feel more comfortable. Give your throat time to settle instead of repeatedly vaping through irritation.