Vaping FAQs

can you have an allergic reaction to vaping ecigarettes

by Nora Wehner Published 1 year ago Updated 1 year ago

Key Points

  • Some vapers are allergic to PG, but it’s possible to be allergic to the other components of e-liquid too. Watch out for symptoms such as hives, rashes, wheezing, coughing, sore throat, nausea, headaches, swelling and itchy eyes.
  • Switch to a PG-free (100 percent VG) e-liquid if you’re allergic to PG, and avoid any flavorings likely to cause an issue based on your experience with food.

E-cigarettes affect IgE, a substance that is involved in the immune system's response and allergic reactions. This means there's a potential for making diseases such as asthma, rhinitis, and hay fever worse in those who vape, according to research from the medical journal Clinical and Translational Allergy.Sep 4, 2019

Full Answer

Can you have a bad reaction to vaping?

If you’re having a bad reaction to vaping, you should now see that it isn’t necessarily an “allergy.” In fact, the odds are that it’s sensitivity rather than an allergy, but it is possible that you’re having an allergic reaction. Documented allergic reactions to PG tend to be from skin contact.

Can you be allergic to vaping PG?

With all things considered, it appears that about 2 % of vapers experience allergy-like symptoms from vaping PG. The upshot is that if you’ve had bad reactions to moisturisers or other PG-containing cosmetics before, you should keep an eye out for signs of a reaction to vaping.

Could you be allergic to your e-cigarette?

Experts have warned people could be allergic to their e-cigarette, or more specifically to the e-liquids they vape. An allergic reaction usually happens within a few minutes of exposure to an allergen - the compound that a person is allergic to.

Can vaping cause sinus allergies?

It is important to note that milder symptoms may not be coming from an allergic reaction at all. Vaping is dehydrating and can dry out your sinus passageways, mouth and throat. If you vape regularly, you may not be aware of just how much of a dehydrating effect vaping can have.

Why are e-cigarettes so popular?

When is something suspected as a respiratory allergen?

Why is it important to tell people about allergens in a product?

What is less common, asthma or allergic reactions?

What is the most common type of allergy?

How long does it take for an allergic reaction to occur?

Why are flavoured e-liquids banned?

See 4 more

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What are the symptoms of being allergic to vape?

Symptoms of a nicotine allergyheadache.wheezing.stuffy nose.watery eyes.sneezing.coughing.rash.

Can you have allergy to vape?

Many of the liquids used for vaping containe propylene glycol, a known skin allergen. In addition, many contain fruit and spice flavorings such as strawberry, mint and berry extracts that are know irritants on the skin and possibly can also produce hives and a systemic reaction.

What are the symptoms of propylene glycol allergy?

This contact allergy may cause your skin to react when it is exposed to this substance although it may take several days for the symptoms to appear. Typical symptoms include redness, swelling, itching, and fluid-filled blisters.

How does the body react to vaping?

Nicotine in e-liquid goes quickly from your lungs to your bloodstream. It causes your body to release adrenaline, a hormone that raises your pulse, blood pressure, and breathing rate. This could play a role in raising your heart attack odds. You may also feel more alert and need to cough.

Can you get inflammation from vaping?

Inhaling diacetyl causes inflammation and may lead to permanent scarring in the smallest branches of the airways — popcorn lung — which makes breathing difficult. Popcorn lung has no lasting treatment. There are, however, treatments that manage BO symptoms, such as: Coughing.

Why does vaping make me itchy?

"Vaping contains lots of chemicals and nicotine which come in contact with our skin. This may cause the skin to become dry or flaky," she says. "It can also aggravate those with naturally dry skin by making it patchy and sometimes itchy.

What foods are high in propylene glycol?

Foods that Contain Propylene GlycolSeasoning blends.Dried soups.Salad dressings.Baking mixes for foods like cakes, muffins, cinnamon buns, biscuits, cupcakes, and pancakes.Powdered drink mixes.Flavored teas.Soft drinks.Alcoholic beverages.More items...•

How common is an allergy to propylene glycol?

Contact allergy to propylene glycol is relatively uncommon. It is estimated to be present in up to 3.5% of individuals investigated for suspected contact dermatitis.

How long does it take to get propylene glycol out of your system?

about 48 hoursIf you eat products that contain propylene glycol, it may enter your bloodstream. Exposure of the general population to propylene glycol is likely since many foods, drugs, and cosmetics contain it. Propylene glycol breaks down in the body in about 48 hours.

What are 5 side effects of vaping?

Vaping has been linked to lung injury.Rapid onset of coughing.Breathing difficulties.Weight loss.Nausea and vomiting.Diarrhea.

What is the safest vape to use?

If you are looking for the safest vape kit then you might want to consider disposables or pod kits. These are often low powered and have safety cuts offs as well as other features to prevent them from overheating. Not only as disposables one of the safest vape kits, but they are also super easy to use.

What are 4 effects of vaping?

Health effects of vaping include the risk of chronic nicotine addiction, lung disease and damage, cardiovascular damage and increased risk for additional substance use. Still, the popularity of vaping shows a lack of understanding of the potential side effects.

How can I vape without irritation?

How to Prevent a Sore/Burning Throat from Vaping:Change to a lower strength e-liquid.Don't confuse your sore throat with tobacco withdrawal.Change your e-liquid to a different PG/VG ratio.Pay attention to your vape frequency.Change your vaping style.Change to a different flavour of e-liquid.Change your type of coils.More items...•

Can you get illnesses from vaping?

E-cigarettes produce a number of dangerous chemicals including acetaldehyde, acrolein, and formaldehyde. These aldehydes can cause lung disease, as well as cardiovascular (heart) disease.

How do you know if you have a nickel allergy?

Nickel allergy signs and symptoms include: Rash or bumps on the skin. Itching, which may be severe. Redness or changes in skin color.

Can vape cause skin problems?

We do know that vaping can dry out your skin, and cause significant dehydration. The dryer your skin becomes, the more likely it is to produce oil and sebum (which can clog our pores and potentially lead to acne breakouts).

Can people really be allergic to second hand Vape?

I'd like to be able to answer your question but alas, I don't know. However, you have someone who you graciously let stay in your home rent free, telling you what you can and cannot do, or at the very least, making you feel uncomfortable with what you do in your own home.

Woman claims allergic reaction to vape caused painful rash, required ...

A woman in England is calling for a law requiring an allergy test for any first-time vapers after she claims her severe reaction to the e-cigarette landed her in the hospital. Lisa Santiago-Griggs ...

Allergies to e liquid - The symptoms and how to overcome them

Identifying the symptoms and learning how to overcome them without damaging your health in the long run Lots of people enjoy vaping, some were smokers before they started the habit but others may not have been. Either way there is a learning curve associated with the pastime and it pays to learn how it can affect the b

Can you get itchy after vaping?

If you develop, itching and irritation after vaping. Check to see if it is propylene glycol based or vegetable based. Even vegetable based could be a problem in some people since we know that people can be allergic to fruits such as mangos, strawberries, kiwi,etc as well as coconut, hazelnut and other plant extracts.

Is vaping better than smoking?

Vaping or the use of e-cigarettes has been touted as “safer” than smoking cigarettes. Yet, is this really true? With respect to skin allergies, hives and itching, there may be more to be studied. Many of the liquids used for vaping containe propylene glycol, a known skin allergen.

Can you vape with berries?

In addition, many contain fruit and spice flavorings such as strawberry, mint and berry extracts that are know irritants on the skin and possibly can also produce hives and a systemic reaction. If you already know that you are allergic to berries, then vaping an extract with berries could produce a systemic allergic response in your lungs ...

How long does it take for vaping to go away?

The good news is these symptoms go away after a few weeks to a month, but the bad news is vaping-related side-effects are very much the same, so it’s hard to identify what is causing them. The best thing you can do is stop using e-cigarettes for a couple of days and see if your general condition improves. If it does, you should investigate ...

Why do I feel a buzz when I smoke?

It might be the nicotine if you have any. Since like cigarettes, there is a nicotine option, you may be feeling a buzz. This is common, as it is a side effect of nicotine, whether smoking or vaping. However, I recommend you see an allergist and test for propylene glycerol, because that is always a possibility. I hope this helps. Have a nice day

Can vaping cause gum bleed?

If you quit two months ago and stil are going through health issues, the vaping is NOT the problem. Some experience gum bleeeding, a direct result of years o fsmoking cigarettes. when quitting cigarettes and going over to vaping, the natural bad health of the gums, hidden by shrunken capillaries from smoking cigs, suddenly becomes pronounced and brushing teeth or nothing at all causes the gums to bleed. Getting your gums back to good health is all that is needed, but it takes time and fortitude.

What happens if you quit smoking?

These can include mouth ulcers, headaches, nausea, coughing, a skin eruption known as “quit zits”, sputum and phlegm, among others.

Is ecig vapor toxic?

It’s a toxic feeling. It almost feels like your entire bloodstream is infected. It’s serious and needs to be discussed. E cigs need to go through the FDA. There is just too many things that we don’t know about them. With multiple ways of ingesting and creating the vapor comes multiple ways of possibly infecting ourselves with things that aren’t good for us. With the amount of vapor being produced by some methods, you are inhaling 10 times the amount once thought safe. Liquid nicotine is poisonous.

Can you be allergic to e-cigarettes?

Another thing you have to understand is that you don’t have to be a new e-cigarette user to experience vaping-related health issues. Humans can become allergic to various things at any point during their lives, so even if you’ve been happily puffing on your e-cig for months, even years, you can start to experience all kinds of bizarre symptoms. The most common culprit seems to be propylene glycol (PG), the organic compound used as a base for the majority of e-liquids available on the market today. It holds the nicotine and flavor in suspension so your e-cigarette can produce those thick plumes of smoke-like vapor, but it’s also a known irritant and can cause a number of allergic reactions. In mild cases, they range from a sore throat to sinus problems, headaches, and even feelings of nausea, while in extreme cases PG can cause numbness of the face and tongue and itchy hives on the upper body. The best way to make sure propylene glycol is responsible for any of these symptoms, and at the same time solve the problem, is to switch to a 100% vegetable glycerin e-liquid, or at least one with a lower PG content.

Can you vape with artificial coloring?

Artificial colorings, artificial flavorings, artificial sweeteners and other additives are approved for human consumption, but they have not yet been tested for safety when inhaled, so they could cause irritation or allergic symptoms when vaped.

How is Vaping Associated with Allergies?

The bottom line is there is still a lot of research that needs to be done before definitive conclusions can be reached on how vaping is associated with allergies.

What is Vape Lung?

Vape lung is the term that is being given to a cluster of symptoms that arise from what is believed to be the sustained use of e-cigarettes. Vape lung is not an infection—which means it is likely the result of exposure to the chemicals in vaping products.

Are Sinus Infections Caused by Vaping?

It’s possible that vaping may be a contributing factor to some sinus infections . Since vaping increases allergy sensitivity, and allergies can lead to possible sinus infections, vaping could be one of the factors to consider when determining the source of a sinus infection.

Why do people come to Kai's Virgin Vapor?

We get quite a few customers who come to Kai's Virgin Vapor because they are experiencing allergic reactions when vaping and are hoping that our minimalist philosophy which rejects the use of any unnecessary ingredients in our vape juice will help tame their symptoms.

How to know if you're overdosed on nicotine?

Rule out Nicotine Overdose. For more severe symptoms, be certain to first assess if your symptoms are being caused by nicotine overdose. Symptoms of nicotine overdose can include nausea, headache, rapid heartbeat and a general feeling of being unwell.

What to do if VG is not agreeing with you?

Try switching to a different vendor in case there is something in the VG or nicotine used by that particular vendor that doesn't agree with you.

Does vape juice have PG?

The vast majority of flavorings come in a base of PG , so even if the vape juice is VG based, it may still contain PG added with the flavorings. For people that are truly sensitive to PG, that can be more than enough to trigger allergic symptoms. Ask your vape juice vendor if their flavorings come in a base of PG to be certain.

Is Kai's virgin vape juice PG free?

At Kai's Virgin Vapor, all of our organic and natural e-liquid flavors are 100% PG-free, so we make it easy to avoid PG exposure. Many other vendors also offer VG-based e-liquids, however, always be certain they are truly PG-free. The vast majority of flavorings come in a base of PG, so even if the vape juice is VG based, ...

Can vaping cause allergies?

It is important to note that milder symptoms may not be coming from an allergic reaction at all. Vaping is dehydrating and can dry out your sinus passageways, mouth and throat. If you vape regularly, you may not be aware of just how much of a dehydrating effect vaping can have. Try upping your H2O intake first to see if this simple fix can eliminate any mild symptoms.

Can vaping cause a scratchy throat?

PG can cause allergic symptoms ranging from a scratchy throat to sinus problems, headaches, and even feelings of nausea.

What are the problems with vaping?

Vaping causes other problems, including: Poisoning of children, who swallow the liquid nicotine. Fires and explosions from defective batteries in the e-cigarette that result in serious injuries. E-cigarettes and vapes are relatively new; the long-term effects are unknown.

How to stop vaping?

Make a plan. Team up with your primary care doctor to make a plan. Make goals, even if it includes reducing vaping gradually. Set a quit date. Nicotine gum, patches, or other medications can help with cravings. Recognize that you will have cravings and some side effects, like headaches or anxiety.

What is vaping?

Vaping is the process of using electronic nicotine delivery device systems (ENDS). These devices use batteries to turn liquids into vapor that is inhaled in to the lungs. The liquids usually have nicotine in them, along with flavorings and other substances. A vape device can also be used to heat/inhale marijuana or other substances after the initial e-liquid has been used up.

Can e-cigarettes or vapes be used to quit smoking?

There are several products recommended by the US FDA to help people quit smoking.

How to stop smoking cigarettes?

Keep your hands—and the rest of you—busy with hobbies or exercise. Spend more time in places that will not allow you to vape or use tobacco. Learn to relax with yoga, meditation, and deep or rhythmic breathing. Get support to stop tobacco use and improve your chances of quitting by following these suggestions.

What are some examples of chemicals in vaping?

Some examples of chemicals are: Heavy metals, such lead, chromium, nickel, tin, manganese. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Is vaping a good way to quit smoking?

Vaping, or using electronic nicotine delivery devices (ENDS), to turn liquid into vapor to breathe in, is unhealthy. Once touted as a way to quit smoking, vaping still delivers the harmful nicotine along with other chemicals.

What is the purpose of the base in an electronic cigarette?

The base, or carrier, holds the nicotine and flavor in suspension so your e-cigarette or vaporizer can produce those nice clouds of smoke-like vapor.

Can e-liquid cause throat irritation?

In most cases, the only side effect is some minor throat irritation, but for some people it can be much worse.

Can vaping cause psoriasis?

Although most people experience no problems from vaping, there are also certain medicines and conditions which may interact with e-cigarettes, or more specifically, the nicotine most liquids contain. However, as an ex-smoker, you’re likely to be aware of any potential problems relating to a health condition already. For example, psoriasis (a skin condition) is often worsened by smoking, and this is assumed to be related to the action of nicotine. Some psoriasis-suffering vapers have reported increased problems, so it’s worth a visit to the doctor if you’re concerned.

Is e-liquid a VG?

E- Liquid, Propylene Glycol and Allergies. E-li quid consists primarily of propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerine (VG), nicotine and flavorings, but in many cases, new vapers are unlikely to know if they have an allergy to the seemingly unfamiliar ingredients. It is possible to have an allergy to pretty much any component, ...

Can you be allergic to PG in vapes?

Some vapers are allergic to PG, but it’s possible to be allergic to the other components of e-liquid too. Watch out for symptoms such as hives, rashes, wheezing, coughing, sore throat, nausea, headaches, swelling and itchy eyes.

Can PG cause stinging?

In vapers who became sensitized, direct contact with PG may cause multiple small (1 – 2 mm) papules , pustules and vesicles around the mouth or in the oral mucosa with associated burning, stinging sensation in the affected areas. However, development of systemic symptoms after oral exposure to PG is rare. Common sense would suggest avoiding the ...

Can pregnant women use e-cigarettes?

E-cigs are unlikely to be as dangerous when pregnant as smoking, but still carry some definite risks; only use if abstinence is impossible, and minimize nicotine consumption as much as you can.

Who developed the rash after using a vape?

Lisa Santiago-Griggs, 42, said she developed the painful rash after using a vape for the first time. (SWNS) A woman in England is calling for a law requiring an allergy test for any first-time vapers after she claims her severe reaction to the e-cigarette landed her in the hospital. Lisa Santiago-Griggs, who had attempted to self-medicate ...

Can you get a reaction to e-liquid?

According to E-CigReviews.org.uk, allergic reaction s to propylene glycol or vegetable glycerin, two ingredients that make up e-liquids, are possible although often rare. Symptoms of a propylene glycol allergy include dry throat, sore throat, swollen gums, skin problems and rashes, and sinus problems.

Can you vape with propylene glycol?

Those who experience skin issues including on their neck, lips and face are encouraged to stop using the liquid immediately. According to the website, those with an allergy to propylene glycol can still vape, but will need to choose a liquid void of the ingredient.

What happens if you have a PG allergy?

If you have a PG allergy, you’ll likely show signs of allergic contact dermatitis.

How does the immune system respond to an allergy?

Like it does in response to an infection, your immune system responds to the perceived threat by creating antibodies specifically designed to fight it off.

What are the symptoms of quitting smoking?

Firstly, the “quitter’s flu” involves many cold and flu-like symptoms, including congestion, coughing, sore throat, headaches and more.

Can you get a PG allergy from vaping?

As mentioned earlier, PG is in so many different products you’ve probably already come into contact with PG on your skin. This means many people will a true PG allergy will probably be well aware of it – or at least that you have an allergy to something before you start vaping.

Is PG a true allergy?

The big issue is that these symptoms are a lot like what you’d get if your skin was simply irritated by PG. This isn’t a true allergic reaction, but the symptoms are so similar it can be really hard to tell which is which. In fact, this is a big part of the reason researchers aren’t quite sure how common PG allergy is.

Can you be allergic to PG?

A common explanation is that some people are just allergic to PG. But it ’s not that simple. In fact, while allergies do happen, in situations like the one dramatised above, it’s normally something a lot more common but arguably just as unpleasant: PG sensitivity.

Is vaping bad for you?

If you’re having a bad reaction to vaping, you should now see that it isn’t necessarily an “allergy.” In fact, the odds are that it’s sensitivity rather than an allergy, but it is possible that you’re having an allergic reaction.

How long after smoking e-cigarette can you get seizures?

Seizures have been reported as occurring after a few puffs or up to one day after use. Most of the self-reported data that the FDA has received does not contain any specific brand or sub-brand information about the e-cigarette.

How many seizures are there from e-cigarettes?

After examining poison control centers' reports between 2010 and early 2019, the FDA determined that, between the poison control centers and the FDA, there were a total of 35 reported cases of seizures mentioning use of e-cigarettes within that timeframe.

Why is the FDA seeking more information about seizures following e-cigarette use?

The FDA is seeking more information about seizures following e-cigarette use to identify common risk factors and understand if any e-cigarette product attributes such as nicotine content or formulation may contribute to seizures.

What are the symptoms of a tobacco use?

Whether other tobacco products, medications, supplements or other substances were used. Whether there were any other symptoms (i.e., nausea, vomiting) or warning right before the adverse experience, such as change in the user’s behavior, alertness, vision or hearing.

Does the FDA have information on e-cigarettes?

Most of the self-reported data that the FDA has received does not contain any specific brand or sub-brand information about the e-cigarette. While detailed information is currently limited, the FDA is alerting the public to this important and potentially serious health issue. Healthcare providers should be aware that seizures may be associated ...

Do e-cigarettes have high nicotine levels?

Parents, teachers, and other concerned adults should be aware that many youth are using e-cigarettes that closely resemble a USB flash drive, have high levels of nicotine and emissions that are hard to see.

Do e-cigarettes cause seizures?

Some E-cigarette Users Are Having Seizures, Most Reports Involving Youth and Young Adults. The FDA has become aware that some people who use e-cigarettes have experienced seizures, with most reports involving youth or young adult users.

Why are e-cigarettes so popular?

A wealth of scientific research has explored the health benefits and dangers of the devices, which are becoming increasingly popular. E-cigarettes were designed to help smokers quit their deadly habit, and are marketed as a healthier alternative to regular fags.

When is something suspected as a respiratory allergen?

They found when something is suspected as a respiratory allergen, the concentration at which it could be used safely is too low for the ingredient to provide any flavour.

Why is it important to tell people about allergens in a product?

Dr Costigan said: "No two people have the same immune response, which is why it is important to tell people about allergens in a product even if all your data says most people shouldn't experience a problem."

What is less common, asthma or allergic reactions?

Less common is a respiratory allergic reaction or "chemical asthma".

What is the most common type of allergy?

Dr Sandra Costigan, principal toxicologist at British American Tobacco, explained the most common type of allergy is caused by the skin coming into contact with an allergen. Less common is a respiratory allergic reaction or "chemical asthma". "Although respiratory allergy is much less common than skin allergy, the potential adverse effects are much ...

How long does it take for an allergic reaction to occur?

An allergic reaction usually happens within a few minutes of exposure to an allergen - the compound that a person is allergic to.

Why are flavoured e-liquids banned?

Earlier this year, public health experts in Wales called for flavoured e-liquids to be banned to stop young kids developing a taste for the potentially dangerous devices.

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