Understanding the 'Nic-Sick' Phenomenon
Feeling 'weird' after vaping is a widely reported side effect commonly known as 'nic-sickness,' which is essentially a mild form of nicotine poisoning. This occurs when your body ingests too much nicotine too quickly, overwhelming your nervous system and triggering a protective response. Unlike traditional cigarettes, many modern vape devices, especially those using nicotine salts, can deliver a high concentration of nicotine very rapidly, increasing the risk of this reaction.
Beyond nicotine overload, other factors contribute to the unsettling sensation, including dehydration caused by e-liquid ingredients, allergic reactions to flavorings, or even problems with your vaping device itself. Identifying the specific cause is the first step toward preventing it from happening again.
The Impact of Nicotine Overload
Nicotine is a powerful stimulant that affects the central nervous system. When you vape, nicotine quickly enters your bloodstream and brain, triggering the release of adrenaline, the body's 'fight or flight' hormone. This sudden rush can lead to a number of physical and mental effects, some of which are likely what you describe as 'weird.'
Common symptoms of nicotine overload, or 'nic-sickness,' include:
- Dizziness and lightheadedness: The stimulant effect on your nervous system can cause a temporary feeling of being off-balance or unsteady.
- Nausea and vomiting: Nicotine directly impacts the digestive system, irritating the stomach lining and leading to sickness.
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure: The adrenaline release can cause your heart to race, which may feel unsettling or anxious.
- Sweating and clamminess: Your body may react to the toxic substance by sweating excessively.
- Headaches: Constricted blood vessels due to nicotine can trigger headaches.
- Anxiety or jitteriness: The overstimulation of your nervous system can lead to heightened feelings of anxiety, restlessness, and agitation.
How Dehydration Affects Your Vaping Experience
Many e-liquids contain propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG), which are both humectants. This means they absorb and trap moisture. When you inhale the vapor, these ingredients draw moisture from your mouth and throat, and the process of exhaling further dehydrates you. If you are not drinking enough water throughout the day, the cumulative effect can lead to symptoms like:
- Dry mouth and throat
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- General fatigue
Staying properly hydrated is a simple yet crucial step to mitigate many of these side effects.
Possible Causes from E-liquid and Device Issues
Sometimes, the issue isn't the nicotine but other components in the e-liquid or the device itself. Even products labeled as 'nicotine-free' have been found to contain nicotine.
- Allergic reactions to flavorings: E-liquids contain flavorings that, while generally safe for food consumption, are not intended to be inhaled. Some individuals may have a sensitivity or allergic reaction to specific flavor chemicals, causing irritation and sickness.
- Contaminated or expired e-liquid: Using old or improperly stored e-liquid can lead to contamination and exposure to degraded chemicals.
- Damaged or burnt coil: A damaged or old coil can cause the wicking material to burn, releasing toxic smoke and a foul taste that can make you feel unwell.
- High wattage settings: If your device is set to a wattage that is too high for your e-liquid and coil, it can accelerate nicotine absorption and produce a harsher vapor, increasing the likelihood of discomfort.
Comparing the 'Weird' Feeling: Vaping vs. Smoking
| Feature | Vaping Sensation | Smoking Sensation |
|---|---|---|
| Onset | Often faster, especially with high-nicotine salt liquids, leading to an intense 'hit' or rush. | Slower absorption of nicotine compared to many vapes, resulting in a less intense but longer-lasting effect. |
| Nicotine Delivery | More precise and customizable, but easy to overdo with high mg/mL options. | Less precise, with nicotine absorbed over the course of the cigarette. |
| Contributing Factors | Nicotine level, dehydration (from PG/VG), flavorings, wattage settings, and device issues. | Nicotine level, carbon monoxide, and a vast array of other chemicals from burning tobacco. |
| Sensory Effects | Can cause a stronger headrush, dizziness, and nausea if overconsumed. | Initial dizzy sensation for new users, which typically fades with tolerance. |
What to Do When You Feel Weird After Vaping
If you experience any of these uncomfortable symptoms, there are immediate steps you can take:
- Stop vaping immediately: Put your device down and take a break to let your body recover.
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water or an electrolyte drink to counteract dehydration and help your body process the nicotine faster.
- Eat a snack: Having some food, especially something sugary, can help calm your stomach and stabilize your blood sugar.
- Get fresh air: Step outside to get some air and clear your head.
Long-Term Prevention and When to Seek Help
For a more lasting solution, consider these adjustments to your habits:
- Lower your nicotine strength: If you are using a high-nicotine e-liquid, switch to a lower concentration. Nicotine salts often deliver more intense effects, so switching to a lower salt content or traditional freebase nicotine may help.
- Pace yourself: Pay attention to how frequently you are vaping. Unlike cigarettes that burn out, vapes are always ready, which can lead to constant, mindless use.
- Check your device: Ensure your coil is not burnt and your wattage settings are appropriate for your e-liquid.
- Change e-liquid: Experiment with different flavors or brands to see if a specific ingredient is causing your reaction.
If you consistently feel unwell despite these changes, it's crucial to consider that vaping might not be right for you and to seek guidance from a medical professional. Furthermore, if you experience severe symptoms like persistent vomiting, chest pain, or seizures, seek immediate medical attention, as this could indicate more serious nicotine poisoning.
For more information on nicotine's impact and cessation support, consult resources like the National Institute on Drug Abuse. For comprehensive details on vaping's health effects and support for quitting, visit reputable health organizations.
Conclusion
Feeling weird after vaping is not unusual and is most often attributed to a nicotine overload, a reaction to e-liquid ingredients, or dehydration. While it can be an uncomfortable experience, recognizing the cause and taking immediate steps like stopping, hydrating, and eating can quickly alleviate symptoms. For a long-term solution, consider reducing your nicotine strength and pacing your use. The most certain way to avoid these effects is to quit vaping altogether. If symptoms are severe or persist, consulting a healthcare professional is the best course of action.
