Throat Hit: What It Is and How to Make Vaping Feel Smoother

Throat hit is the sensation you feel at the back of your throat when you inhale vapour. Some people like it because it feels closer to smoking. Others find it harsh and want a smoother vape. If your throat hit feels too strong or your throat feels sore, it’s usually fixable with a few simple changes.

How do I avoid throat hit when vaping?

Lower nicotine, choose a higher-VG (lower-PG) liquid, take gentler puffs, and keep your device power moderate.

Why does vaping give me a sore throat?

Most commonly: dehydration from vaping, too much nicotine, high PG, hot vapour, or a new coil/refill.

What causes a strong throat hit?

Throat hit usually gets stronger when one or more of these are high:

1. Nicotine strength: Higher nicotine = stronger throat hit. Freebase nicotine tends to feel sharper than lower strengths.
2. PG/VG ratio: Propylene Glycol (PG) gives more throat hit and can feel dry. Vegetable Glycerin (VG) is smoother.
3. Vapour heat / power: Hotter vapour or high device power can irritate your throat.
4. How you inhale: Very long or deep puffs can increase throat hit, especially with higher nicotine.

How to reduce throat hit (simple fixes)

1. Drop your nicotine level: If the hit feels harsh, step down one level. This is the most common fix.
2. Try a smoother PG/VG mix: A mix with more VG and less PG usually feels softer on the throat.
3. Take shorter, gentler puffs: Try smaller mouth-to-lung puffs instead of big lung inhales.
4. Keep the vapour cooler: If your device has airflow or power settings, lower power slightly and use a comfortable airflow. Cooler vapour is less irritating.
5. Replace burnt or old refills/coils: A burnt coil or old refill can cause a sharp, scratchy hit. If it tastes burnt or feels suddenly harsh, replace it.

Sore throat from vaping: why it happens

A sore throat is a common side effect, especially when you’re new to vaping. Main reasons:

• Dryness / dehydration (PG draws moisture from the throat)
• Too high nicotine
• High PG liquid
• Hot vapour
• Chain vaping (lots of puffs in a short time)
• Sensitivity to PG or flavourings in some people

How to fix vape-related sore throat

Try these in order (most people don’t need all of them):

1. Drink more water: Vaping can dry your mouth and throat, so hydration helps quickly.
2. Reduce nicotine: If your throat is irritated, nicotine can make it worse.
3. Switch to lower-PG / higher-VG: VG is usually smoother and less drying.
4. Take breaks between sessions: Give your throat time to recover.
5. Consider PG sensitivity: If irritation happens every time you vape and improves when you stop, PG intolerance could be the cause.

When to stop and get medical advice

If your sore throat is severe, lasts more than a few days, or comes with fever, swelling, or breathing issues, stop vaping and follow standard medical guidance.