Why Does Disposable Vapes Burn My Throat?

Disposable vapes can cause throat burn for many reasons, including high nicotine levels, strong flavors, and vaping techniques. This article explains the causes, how to prevent irritation, and when it may signal a serious issue.

Is It Normal for Disposable Vapes to Burn Your Throat?

Yes, a burning or sore throat from vaping, especially with disposable vapes, is common. It’s usually caused by high nicotine levels, the ingredients in the e-liquid, or a burnt coil. These factors can irritate your throat, causing discomfort, also known as a "throat hit."

Causes of Throat Burn From Disposable Vapes

High Nicotine Strength

Disposable vapes often contain high nicotine levels, especially those with nicotine salts. Stronger nicotine concentrations can be harsh on the throat, leading to irritation or a burning feeling. This is especially true for new vapers or those sensitive to nicotine.

Sensitivity to Propylene Glycol (PG)

Propylene glycol (PG) is a common ingredient in e-liquids. It enhances the throat hit but can cause dryness and irritation for some users. If you’re feeling discomfort, consider switching to a vape juice with a higher VG (vegetable glycerin) ratio, which is smoother on the throat.

Dehydration From Vaping

Vaping can dry out your throat and mouth, irritating. The vapor pulls moisture from your throat, leaving it feeling dry and scratchy. Drinking water regularly helps soothe discomfort and keeps your throat moist.

Chain Vaping or Long Puffs

Vaping too frequently or taking long puffs can overheat the coil. This produces hotter vapor, which can burn your throat. To reduce throat irritation, try taking shorter, slower puffs and avoid chain vaping.

Dry Hits From an Empty or Faulty Cartridge

When a disposable vape runs low on e-liquid or has a faulty cartridge, it can produce dry hits. This happens when the coil overheats due to insufficient liquid, causing a harsh, burning sensation in your throat.

Strong or Harsh Flavors

Some vape flavors, like menthol, citrus, or cinnamon, can be harsh on the throat. These flavors may irritate, especially for those with sensitive throats. If you’re prone to throat burn, try milder flavors.

Poor-Quality Vape Devices

Low-quality disposable vapes may have issues with heating elements or airflow. These inconsistencies can produce rough vapor, which irritates the throat. Investing in a higher-quality vape can minimize this risk.

Inhaling Incorrectly

Using improper inhaling techniques, like forceful inhales or vaping in the wrong style (MTL vs. DTL), can also cause throat irritation. Take smooth, controlled puffs and use the proper technique for your device to avoid discomfort.

Recommended Related Reading: Disposable Vapes: 6 Key Factors for Top Picks

How to Prevent Disposable Vapes From Burning Your Throat

To avoid throat irritation, take fewer puffs, wait longer between each puff, and keep an eye on your e-liquid level. Staying hydrated by drinking water also helps keep your throat moist and prevents discomfort.

Reduce Puff Frequency and Duration

To prevent throat irritation, avoid chain vaping or taking long puffs. Overheating the coil from vaping too frequently can result in a burnt taste and sore throat. Take shorter puffs and give the vape time to cool down between uses.

Allow Breaks Between Puffs

Let your disposable vape cool down between puffs. This allows the coil to absorb more e-liquid, preventing it from running dry. Taking regular breaks can help avoid overheating and reduce the chances of experiencing throat burn.

Monitor E-Liquid Levels

Keep an eye on the e-liquid level in your disposable vape. If it’s low, you might get dry hits, which cause a harsh, burnt taste that irritates your throat. Always replace or refill the vape before it runs out of juice.

Choose the Right Nicotine Strength

If you’re feeling a harsh throat hit, try switching to a lower nicotine strength. Higher nicotine levels can be intense and irritate your throat, so reducing the strength can lead to a smoother experience.

Stay Hydrated

Vaping can dry out your throat, so it’s important to stay hydrated. Drinking water helps prevent dryness and irritation and soothes any discomfort caused by dehydration.

Opt for a Higher VG E-Liquid

Consider using disposable vapes with a higher VG (vegetable glycerin) ratio. VG is smoother on the throat compared to PG (propylene glycol) and can help reduce irritation, providing a more comfortable vaping experience.

Check for a Faulty Cartridge

If your disposable vape produces dry hits or burns your throat, check the cartridge. A faulty or low e-liquid cartridge can cause these issues. Replacing or fixing the cartridge can prevent further irritation.

Use Proper Inhalation Techniques

Using the right inhalation technique can make a big difference. Try mouth-to-lung (MTL) inhaling instead of direct-lung (DL) inhaling. MTL is gentler on the throat and can help reduce irritation, making it a better option for disposable vapes.

Recommended Related Reading: 13 Safest Disposable Vapes in 2025

Is Throat Burn From Disposable Vapes a Sign of a Serious Issue?

Mild throat burns from disposable vapes are common, but persistent or severe irritation may signal a more serious issue. Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, or a lasting sore throat.

Throat Hit vs. Serious Irritation

A mild throat burn, also known as a "throat hit," is normal with vaping. It happens when vapor irritates the throat due to factors like nicotine strength, e-liquid ingredients, or dehydration. This is usually temporary and not a major concern.

When to Be Concerned

If throat irritation is severe, persistent, or worsens over time, it could indicate a more serious issue. Symptoms like coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, fever, or nausea may suggest a vaping-related illness that requires medical attention.

EVALI and Other Health Risks

EVALI (E-cigarette or Vaping product use Associated Lung Injury) is a serious condition linked to vaping. It can cause lung damage, breathing issues, and long-term health risks. Other concerns include lung scarring, asthma, and addiction.

Possible Allergic Reactions

Some vapers may be sensitive to propylene glycol (PG), a common e-liquid ingredient. An allergic reaction can cause throat irritation, coughing, or difficulty breathing. If symptoms persist or worsen, consider switching to a different e-liquid or seeking medical advice.

Conclusion

Disposable vapes can cause throat burn due to various factors, such as high nicotine content, improper usage, or low-quality ingredients. By understanding these causes and making simple adjustments, you can enjoy a smoother vaping experience. Stay hydrated, select quality devices, and experiment with different settings to minimize throat irritation.