New vapers who complain about e-cigarettes hurting their throat may naturally wonder if they have sensitivities to the ingredients in their e-liquid. While this is a legitimate theory, allergies to propylene glycol and vegetable glycerol are actually rare. PG and VG have been deemed safe by the FDA for years and both are common ingredients in commercial food and hygiene products, so if you’ve been experiencing unpleasant reactions since you picked up your e-cig, there’s probably another culprit. Nonetheless, we’ll discuss potential problems with the components that make up e-liquid ingredients: PG, VG, nicotine and flavoring.
Am I Allergic To My E-Cig?
When a new e-cig user experiences side effects from e-cigarettes, their first question may be, “Am I allergic to my e-cig?” While it is possible for an e-cig user have an allergy to an ingredient in e-liquid, it is quite rare. Only about 1 in 1,000 people are sensitive to vegetable glycerin (VG). Allergic reactions to VG can cause itching, shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea and diarrhea; however, it is important to note that some of these symptoms can also be caused by tobacco withdrawal, a condition sometimes called “smoker’s flu” because the symptoms resemble influenza. Talk to your doctor if you are concerned about a VG allergy.
An estimated 1 in 10 individuals have a slight sensitivity to propylene glycol (PG), which may cause a sore throat for some vapers. Other signs of PG allergy include headaches, nausea and sinus problems in addition to rarer symptoms like hives and swelling. However, because PG is such a common additive in consumer goods, you’d likely know if you are sensitive to the ingredient long before you ever try an e-cig.
Related: From Smoking to Vaping: Overcoming the Smoker’s Flu
Allergies to E-Liquid Flavors
Makers of e-liquid use the same types of artificial and natural flavorings commonly found in commercial food and drinks. Reactions to such ingredients are rare, but if you suffer from food allergies and have a concern about a particular flavor, avoid it until you can obtain a list of the exact ingredients and bring it with you the next time you see your doctor. All of White Cloud’s flavorings are allergen-free, so you’re safe as long as you vape with us.
It’s Probably How You Vape
The most likely cause of a vaping throat irritation has to do with inhalation technique. Tobacco cigarettes contain chemicals that numb the throat, which helps smokers inhale directly into their lungs. Since e-liquids lack such chemicals, ex-smokers switching to e-cigs may need to alter how they inhale. When drawing on an e-cig, try holding the vapor in your mouth for a second before breathing it into your lungs. The vapor will have a moment to cool, so it shouldn’t hurt the back of your throat.
Find it Here: Replacements for V2 Cigs
How Much is Too Much Nicotine?
Nicotine is responsible for the coveted e-cig throat hit sensation that ex-smokers long for, so you may try adjusting your nicotine level if you’re getting too much or not enough tingle in the back of your throat. Nicotine alone normally doesn’t cause allergic reactions, but anyone can experience a nicotine overdose. The first noticeable symptom is usually a headache followed by vomiting, dizziness and potentially seizures. Fortunately, you’d have to consume a lot of nicotine to overdose – far more than you could get from vaping. If you or someone else accidentally ingests liquid nicotine, however, you should seek medical help immediately.
Drink Water, Feel Better, Vape White Cloud
While PG and VG are very safe, they are designed to attract moisture, which means they can dry out your mouth and throat. Make it a habit to carry a water bottle with you wherever you go. It’ll make vaping more enjoyable, and your body will appreciate the extra hydration. We at White Cloud want you to stay healthy so you can keep vaping and give up tobacco for good.
