Signs You Might Have A PG Intolerance and What to Do About It

Whether you are a new vaper, an experienced vaper, or have recently switched to a new e-liquid and are now suddenly not feeling well, or it feels like something is off, don't panic just yet. Many people experience a sore throat, start coughing more, feel dizzy, and even have skin breakouts.

If this sounds familiar, you might have a PG intolerance. In today's blog, we take a look at what PG is, the signs and symptoms of PG intolerance, and what to do about it.

What is PG?

PG, short for propylene glycol, is one of the ingredients used in vape juices and is what carries flavours and gives you that strong throat hit when you vape, especially in high PG blends. It is also what provides a strong throat hit (that feeling at the back of your throat), similar to smoking, making it a popular choice, especially among people who have just recently switched to vaping.

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While most people find it satisfying, it can cause side effects or allergic-like reactions in some people. But because PG intolerance is not something that is often talked about, many people mistake the symptoms for something else, like dehydration, flu, or just adjusting to vaping.

It also doesn't help that PG is found in many other things, including cosmetics, food, and medicines, which can make it even harder for you to realise that it is what is causing you trouble.

Signs of PG Intolerance

Constant Dry Mouth and Thirst

Some people already feel too dehydrated when vaping, so this might not automatically mean you have a PG intolerance. However, it is one of the first common signs, especially if accompanied by other symptoms that we will discuss below.

Typically, it feels like your mouth is coated in cotton, or that you can’t get enough water no matter how much you drink. This is because PG is a “humectant,” which means something that absorbs water. It pulls moisture from your mouth and throat, which helps create vapour. But it can also dry out your tissues.

That is why your tongue feels sticky or rough, and flavours might seem dull or muted. It causes you to lick your lips or sip water constantly. Sometimes you just wake up with a dry throat or cracked lips after vaping.

Persistent Coughing or Sore Throat

Another common sign is coughing and a sore throat. Normally, people who vape do not often experience persistent coughing or sore throat. You might experience some irritation when you are new, but it should go away as you get used to it. However, if it lingers or worsens, it could be caused by PG.

PG has a stronger throat hit, which is why it might irritate your throat. For ex-smokers, this might feel good. But for people who are more sensitive, it can make your throat feel raw, dry, scratchy, rough, or even painful when you swallow.

Some vapers think this is a sign they are vaping “too much”, but if you are just using even a small amount and you are still coughing more, your throat feels rough, even without vaping, or you wake up hoarse or with a burning sensation, it could be PG.

Skin Reactions

This is quite ironic because most skin products have PG. However, if you are sensitive to it, you can still experience skin reactions such as rashes, itching, and breakouts. This can happen in two ways. If the juice leaks and comes in contact with your skin, or is absorbed or breathed in as a vapour.

You might notice itchy, red patches on your neck, chest, or hands or breakouts or hives, especially near your vape clouds. Your skin becomes more sensitive, dry, or peels after vaping, and you may even experience acne flare-ups that seem only to appear when you vape.

More Signs

Other signs of PG intolerance can include;

Feeling lightheaded - If you are using high-PG juice, your body might react to PG as if it is an irritant or toxin, leading to inflammation or pressure in your head. Not to mention that PG can dehydrate you, which is a major cause of headaches.

Tight chest - In rare cases, some people may experience a tight chest or trouble breathing, as if their chest is heavy and they can't breathe after vaping. Signs include wheezing or shortness of breath, feeling anxious or panicky after vaping, and pressure in the chest. It is even worse if you already have asthma or another respiratory issue.

Feeling sick to your stomach - Some people experience stomachaches, nausea, and diarrhoea. Others even lose their appetite and experience cramps.

Fatigue - You may also feel tired, sluggish, drained, exhausted (even after sleeping), or just not like your usual self. Others experience mood swings, have trouble thinking clearly, and even a mild depression.

What to Do If You Think You Have PG Intolerance

If you have most of the symptoms above, chances are that you are PG intolerant. Luckily, this is not something to be worried about, and you don't have to quit vaping. All you need are a few changes and adjustments.

You can start by lowering the PG in your e-liquid, or even better, avoid it altogether and only use 100% VG e-liquids with no PG at all. These are much smoother and thicker than PG and don’t dry out your mouth or throat as much. The throat hit feels much lighter or softer, making it more comfortable.

You might also just want to take a break from vaping. This will help you figure out if PG is actually the issue. For example, if you stop vaping for a day or two and don't experience some of the symptoms that you usually would when you vape, it could be a clear indication.

Finally, don't ignore any of the signs, no matter how subtle they may be, and especially if they persist, regardless of what you do. Seek medical help. Symptoms like trouble breathing, chest pain, or anything that feels scary should not wait. Talk to a doctor right away.

Be honest with your doctor about your vaping habits and let them know what kind of vape and liquid you use, how often you vape, when the symptoms started and how they have progressed, and what changes or solutions (if any) you have tried.

FAQs

Is PG intolerance the same as a PG allergy?

While they are not exactly the same thing, the signs and symptoms are often similar. Intolerance simply means your body doesn't like it and only reacts when you use it. Allergies can be more serious and cause big reactions like breathing problems or even an allergic shock.

Most vapers who feel unwell from PG have an intolerance, not necessarily an allergy. If you start noticing something is off, don't wait for the symptoms to get serious, especially things like chest problems. See a doctor immediately.

How do I know for sure if I have a PG intolerance?

There are no special symptoms or simple tests to show that what you are experiencing is actually PG intolerance. On the contrary, most of these signs and symptoms can also be caused by other issues, not necessarily PG or vaping.

However, paying attention to your vaping habits can help. For example, look at your symptoms. Do you get a sore throat, dry mouth, rashes, coughing, headaches, or stomach issues only after vaping? If you take a break from vaping or switch to 100% VG e-liquid and these symptoms go away, that might be a sign.