Vaping is often seen as a less harmful alternative to smoking, but some users report feeling sick after vaping. Symptoms like nausea, headaches, dizziness, or a general sense of discomfort can detract from the experience and raise questions about what might be going wrong. Understanding the causes behind these symptoms and learning how to address them can help ensure a more enjoyable and safe vaping experience.

Nicotine Overuse and Its Effects

One of the most common reasons for feeling sick while vaping is consuming too much nicotine. Nicotine is a powerful stimulant, and excessive intake can lead to symptoms such as nausea, headaches, dizziness, and a racing heart. This is particularly common for those using high-strength e-liquids or chain vaping without allowing breaks between puffs. Your body can only process a certain amount of nicotine at a time, and exceeding this limit can quickly lead to discomfort.

Sensitivity to E-Liquid Ingredients

Another factor to consider is sensitivity or intolerance to certain ingredients in e-liquids, such as propylene glycol (PG) or specific flavourings. PG, often used as a base in e-liquids, can cause throat irritation or nausea, especially for users who are new to vaping or those using e-liquids with a high PG ratio. Flavouring agents, while generally regarded as safe, can also cause reactions in sensitive individuals. Switching to e-liquids with a higher vegetable glycerin (VG) content or trying unflavoured options might alleviate these symptoms.

Dehydration from Vaping

Vaping has a dehydrating effect on the body due to the hygroscopic nature of PG and VG, which draw moisture from the surrounding tissues. Dehydration can cause symptoms such as dry mouth, dizziness, and even nausea. If you’re vaping without staying adequately hydrated, these symptoms can become more pronounced over time. Drinking water regularly while vaping can help counteract this issue and maintain a better balance in your body.

Incorrect Device Settings

Using your vape device at an inappropriate wattage or temperature can also lead to discomfort. High-powered devices that overheat e-liquids can produce harsh vapour, which may irritate your throat and lungs or even cause nausea. Ensuring your device is set to the recommended wattage range for your coil and e-liquid type is essential to avoid these problems.

Psychological Factors

For some users, the sensation of vaping itself can trigger nausea or discomfort, especially if they are not accustomed to inhaling vapour. Additionally, anxiety about potential health risks or overthinking the act of vaping can create a psychological association with feeling unwell. Taking the time to relax and get used to vaping at your own pace can help overcome these feelings.

How to Prevent Feeling Sick When Vaping

If vaping makes you feel sick, consider the following strategies to improve your experience. Start by lowering the nicotine level in your e-liquid, as high nicotine concentrations are a primary cause of discomfort. Switching to an e-liquid with a higher VG ratio can reduce throat irritation and make the vapour smoother. Additionally, take smaller, slower puffs and space out your vaping sessions to give your body time to adjust. Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet can further help mitigate symptoms like nausea or dizziness.

When to Seek Professional Advice

While feeling sick after vaping is often temporary and related to the factors mentioned above, persistent symptoms should not be ignored. If you continue to experience discomfort despite making adjustments, consult a healthcare professional. There could be an underlying health condition contributing to your symptoms, or you might need more personalised guidance to address the issue.

Conclusion

Vaping can make you feel sick for a variety of reasons, ranging from nicotine overuse to sensitivity to e-liquid ingredients. By understanding the causes and making thoughtful adjustments to your vaping habits, you can reduce or eliminate these symptoms and enjoy a more comfortable experience. If problems persist, seeking professional advice is the best way to ensure your health and well-being while vaping.