Understanding Vaping vs Smoking: Coughing and Health Effects

As an experienced vaper since 2016, my journey has led me to compare the effects of smoking and vaping on my respiratory system. Specifically, the question often arises whether vaping causes more coughing than smoking. This article delves into the reasons behind this comparison and explores the potential impacts on respiratory health.

The Coughing Experience of a Former Smoker

From 1977 to 2016, I smoked around 40 cigarettes per day. During this period, I was a frequent cougher. My cough was so pronounced that it looked like I was coughing up smoked oysters, although it was actually phlegm. I would cough up to 10 to 15 times daily, a pattern that continued throughout my smoking years.

Even when I wasn't coughing up phlegm, I would experience dry coughs throughout the day. The constant irritation and inflammation of my respiratory system were a stark reminder of the harmful effects of cigarette smoke on my lungs. This experience set a baseline for how my respiratory system would react to inhaling substances through smoking.

The Comparison with Vaping

Since transitioning to vaping in 2016, my respiratory system has shown a significant improvement. I only cough up to 3 to 5 times per day, and my cough is usually accompanied by a clear phlegm that resembles saliva. Unlike when I smoked, I don't experience persistent dry coughs, and my respiratory system is generally more comfortable.

Why Does Vaping Cause Less Coughing?

The primary reason for reduced coughing when vaping is the nature of the vaping process itself. Unlike smoking, which involves the combustion of tobacco, vaping involves the heating of a liquid, creating an aerosol rather than smoke. This aerosol contains smaller particles and fewer irritants compared to the smoke from tobacco. Here are some key factors:

No Combustion: Since there is no combustion, the vaping process does not produce the harmful by-products of burning tobacco, such as tar and other particulates that irritate the airways. Liquid Vapor vs. Smoke: When you inhale a vaping device, you're primarily taking in a vaporized liquid, which is less irritating to the airways than the particulate matter found in tobacco smoke. Airway Lubrication: The act of vaping can help thin the mucus and phlegm in the airways, making it easier to expel. This can lead to less irritation and coughing compared to the buildup of phlegm that occurs when smoking.

Adjusting to Vaping

It's important to note that transitioning from smoking to vaping can have a learning curve. For instance, the inhalation technique for vaping (mouth-to-lung or direct lung inhalation) differs from smoking. The mouth-to-lung method, where the vapor is drawn into the lungs, can be easier on the throat and lungs compared to the direct lung method, where vapor is inhaled into the lungs and then exhaled without holding it in the mouth. Getting the hang of the new technique can take some practice and may initially cause some irritation.

Health Implications and Considerations

While vaping is often considered less harmful than smoking, it is not entirely harmless. According to the World Health Organization, vaping can still pose health risks. These include potential respiratory irritation, lung inflammation, and addiction to the nicotine contained in many e-liquids. The specific health risks depend on various factors, such as the type of vaping device, the wattage and resistance of the coil, the composition of the e-liquid (VG, PG, flavors), and the frequency of vaping.

Conclusion

Based on my personal experience and the scientific information available, it is clear that vaping can result in less coughing compared to smoking. However, this does not make vaping entirely safe. It is essential to choose a vaping device and e-liquid that minimize potential health risks and to vape responsibly. As with any inhalation of aerosols, it is crucial to adhere to safe practices and guidelines to protect your respiratory health.