Vaping offers a smooth and enjoyable alternative to traditional smoking, but one common hurdle for new and experienced users alike is coughing during inhalation. Whether you’re transitioning from cigarettes or exploring vaping for the first time, understanding how to inhale vape smoke without coughing is key to maximizing your experience. In this guide, we will explore proven methods to help you take smoother puffs and reduce the risk of coughing.
Understanding the Cause of Coughing While Vaping
The primary causes of coughing when vaping include improper inhalation techniques, high nicotine levels, or using incompatible devices and settings. For instance, beginners often try to inhale directly into the lungs, similar to how they might with cigarettes. However, vape smoke is different in density and temperature, leading to throat irritation if not managed properly.
Additionally, the Propylene Glycol (PG) content in e-liquids can cause throat dryness, particularly when vaping with high nicotine levels or at high wattage settings.
1. Master the Mouth-to-Lung Technique
One of the most recommended techniques for avoiding coughing is the Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) method. This involves taking a slow, steady draw of vapor into your mouth first, letting it settle, and then gently inhaling into your lungs. This technique mimics the way many cigarette smokers inhale, making it ideal for those transitioning to vaping. The slower vapor entry helps reduce the harshness that can cause coughing.
2. Experiment with Airflow Settings
Your device’s airflow settings can also play a significant role in how smooth your vape experience is. For a more controlled and comfortable inhale, try adjusting the airflow to suit your preference. A tighter airflow mimics the draw of a cigarette, while a looser airflow allows for deeper lung hits.
3. Use Lower Nicotine E-liquids
Nicotine content is another factor that may contribute to coughing. Higher nicotine levels, especially in freebase nicotine e-liquids, can cause a strong throat hit, leading to coughing fits. Switching to nicotine salts, which offer a smoother throat hit, or lowering the nicotine concentration in your e-juice, can drastically reduce coughing.
4. Keep Hydrated
Vaping can lead to dehydration, as the Propylene Glycol (PG) in e-liquids pulls moisture from your throat. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water before and during vaping sessions can help alleviate throat dryness and prevent coughing. Many vapers find that simply increasing water intake significantly improves their vaping experience.
5. Take Shallow, Controlled Puffs
Inhaling deeply or too rapidly can overwhelm your throat and lungs with vapor, leading to irritation and coughing. Instead, take shallow puffs and give your throat time to adjust to the vapor’s density. This technique not only prevents irritation but also enhances your ability to savor the e-liquid’s flavor.
6. Control the Temperature and Wattage
Vaping at higher wattages or temperatures can lead to a more intense throat hit, which is a common trigger for coughing. Most vape devices allow you to adjust these settings. For beginners, keeping the temperature low helps minimize the harshness of the vapor. This is particularly true if you’re using high PG e-liquids, which can feel sharp on the throat at high wattages.
7. Maintain Your Device
A well-maintained device ensures a smoother vaping experience. Regularly clean your vape tank, replace old coils, and check for any damage that might affect performance. Burnt or damaged coils often produce harsh vapor that can cause coughing.
8. Listen to Your Body
If you find yourself coughing frequently despite following these techniques, it could be due to underlying conditions like a smoker’s cough or sensitivity to certain ingredients in your e-liquid. Taking breaks between puffs, experimenting with different e-liquid compositions, and seeking advice from a healthcare professional can help you address these issues.
Conclusion
Vaping should be an enjoyable and relaxing experience, free from the discomfort of constant coughing. By mastering techniques like mouth-to-lung inhalation, controlling your device’s settings, and staying hydrated, you can significantly reduce the chances of coughing while vaping. Remember, vaping is a personalized experience—experiment with different methods until you find the combination that works best for you. Happy vaping!
