Can Vaping Cause Hiccups? Understanding Why E-Cigarettes Can Trigger Hiccups

Can Vaping Cause Hiccups?

Hiccups are involuntary contractions of the diaphragm muscle that are triggered by irritation of the nerves that control breathing. Each hiccup results in an abrupt rush of air into the lungs that gets stopped by the sudden closure of the vocal cords, causing the "hic" sound we are all familiar with. An episode of hiccups rarely lasts more than a few minutes, but in some cases they can persist for hours or even days.

Vaping, or inhaling vapor from an electronic cigarette device, has become an increasingly popular alternative to smoking traditional tobacco cigarettes. But some vapers report experiencing hiccups during or after vaping. So what's the connection? Can vaping actually cause hiccups?

What Causes Hiccups in General?

There are a number of potential triggers that can cause bouts of hiccups, including:

Eating too fast or swallowing air while eating
Drinking carbonated beverages
Sudden excitement or stress
Temperature extremes
Spicy foods

Hiccups that last for more than 48 hours are known as persistent hiccups. Potential causes for this prolonged condition include:

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Central nervous system lesions or tumors
Metabolic disorders like diabetes or kidney failure
Certain medications

How Could Vaping Lead to Hiccups?

There are a few theories on why vaping may trigger hiccups in some users:

1. Irritation from the vapor

The aerosol vapor created by e-cigarettes contains tiny particles that can irritate the back of the throat and the esophagus. This irritation could cause a spasm of the diaphragm that leads to hiccups.

2. High nicotine levels

Most vaping liquids contain nicotine, although at varying concentrations. High levels of nicotine can cause hiccups, likely by stimulating the vagus nerve which controls diaphragm movement. Those new to vaping or switching from lower nicotine products may be more prone to hiccups until their body adjusts.

3. swallowing air

Certain vaping techniques like direct lung inhales, where vapor is inhaled deeply into the lungs, can increase the likelihood of swallowing air while vaping. This can cause hiccups in the same way that gulping air while eating or drinking can trigger them.

4. GERD

For those who already suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), the irritation from vaping could exacerbate symptoms like hiccups, heartburn, and nausea. The backflow of stomach contents triggered by GERD can irritate the esophagus and diaphragm.

Tips to Prevent Vaping Hiccups

If you experience hiccups associated with vaping, there are some steps you can take to try and prevent them:

Lower your nicotine level - Try gradually dropping down to a lower nicotine e-liquid.
Drink water - Stay well hydrated before, during, and after vaping to keep your throat moist.
Avoid overheating - High temperature settings may increase throat irritation.
Use gentler vaping techniques - Try a mouth-to-lung draw instead of direct lung inhales.
Consider non-nicotine vaping - Eliminating nicotine entirely may stop hiccups.
Treat any GERD - See a doctor if you suspect you have reflux disease.
Use a humidifier - Keeping indoor air moist can ease airway irritation.

How to Stop Vaping Hiccups

If you've started hiccuping while vaping, here are some tips to try and quickly get rid of them:

Drink a glass of water slowly. This can ease spasms of the diaphragm.
Hold your breath. Taking a deep breath and holding it for 10-15 seconds can interrupt the hiccup reflex.
Gargle ice water. The cold temperature and effort of gargling can distract problematic nerve pathways.
Eat a teaspoon of sugar. The sweet granules are thought to have a tranquilizing effect on the vagus nerve.
Press on the roof of your mouth. Placing firm pressure with a finger on the palate for several seconds may block hiccups.
Relax and breathe slowly. Stress and excitement can prolong hiccups, so try to remain calm.

If these DIY remedies don't provide relief within an hour or so, consider talking to your doctor. They may recommend prescription medications to relax the diaphragm or numb the phrenic nerves that control hiccupping when necessary.

When to See a Doctor for Vaping Hiccups

In most cases, hiccups from vaping will clear up on their own or from using simple home treatments. But you should make an appointment with your physician if:

Your hiccups last longer than 48 hours.
Hiccups interfere with your ability to eat, drink or sleep.
You experience very painful hiccups.
You have other concerning symptoms along with hiccups like chest pain, heartburn, shortness of breath, etc.
You hiccup frequently over several weeks or months.

Persistent or severe hiccups could potentially indicate an underlying medical issue that needs further evaluation. Your doctor can examine your throat and esophagus and may order tests to determine if any conditions like GERD, nervous system disorders, or lung problems are contributing to recurring bouts of hiccups when vaping.

When to Seek Emergency Care

Most cases of hiccups are harmless and resolve on their own. But you should seek emergency medical treatment if you experience:

Difficulty breathing
Dizziness or fainting
Chest pain
Blood in spit up or vomit
Severe pain with hiccups
Hiccups that don't stop with any home remedies

These symptoms can potentially indicate very serious conditions like pneumonia, heart attack, or internal bleeding, for which urgent evaluation and treatment is critical.

The Bottom Line

Hiccups from vaping are usually temporary and not a major cause for concern. But frequent or persistent hiccups could signal an underlying health issue that needs medical attention. See a doctor if home treatments don't provide relief or you experience severe symptoms associated with hiccups.

Making adjustments to your vaping habits, like lowering nicotine levels and preventing air swallowing when inhaling, can often prevent vaping-related hiccups. Staying hydrated and avoiding foods that trigger hiccups may also help minimize occurrences.

While hiccups from vaping are nuisance, they are rarely dangerous or damaging. But if you have recurring issues with hiccups when using e-cigarettes, consider consulting your physician to rule out and treat any contributing medical conditions.

FAQs

Can vaping trigger hiccups even if you don't swallow air?

Yes, the vapor particles themselves can irritate the back of the throat and esophagus, causing a spasm of the diaphragm that leads to hiccups. The nicotine in vaping liquids can also stimulate nerves that control breathing and trigger hiccups.

Why do some vapers get hiccups but not others?

Those with sensitivities or conditions like GERD that make the throat and esophagus more prone to irritation will be more likely to experience hiccups from vaping. The nicotine strength and vaping techniques used can also play a role in who develops hiccups.

Are hiccups a sign I should stop vaping?

Not necessarily, but recurring hiccups may be a sign to lower your nicotine levels, adjust vaping techniques, or treat underlying conditions making hiccups more likely. Persistent hiccups should be evaluated by a doctor though.

Can vaping cause chronic hiccups?

It's rare, but some cases of intractable hiccups lasting weeks or months have been linked to vaping. More research is needed, but irritation and heavy nicotine use may put some at risk for chronic hiccuping.

What's the best way to prevent vaping hiccups?

Staying hydrated, lowering nicotine levels, avoiding irritating vaping techniques, treating reflux disease, and using a humidifier can all help minimize hiccups for vapers prone to them.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.