Health and vaping side effects: What UK users report in 2025

August 13, 2025

Vaping has changed the way people consume nicotine in the UK. But it is not free of side effects. With more users switching from cigarettes to vapes, especially post-disposable boom, the question remains – what symptoms are vapers actually reporting in 2025, and what do the experts say?

The most common side effects reported by UK vapers

Based on user feedback and health surveys in 2025, the most reported mild side effects of vaping include:

Dry mouth and throat
Coughing, especially in new users
Chest tightness after heavy use
Headaches or dizziness in high-nic vapers
Nausea when vaping too much, too fast

Most of these symptoms appear when users chain vape, exceed their nicotine tolerance, or use devices improperly. They are usually temporary and fade with adjustments in routine or device settings.

Dry mouth: the most common side effect

Dry mouth is the top complaint among UK vapers. This is due to propylene glycol, a core ingredient in e-liquids, which draws moisture from the mouth and throat. It is harmless, but annoying.

How to reduce it:

Hydrate more throughout the day
Use e-liquids with a higher VG ratio
Limit chain vaping sessions

You can try nicotine salts which are smoother and require less frequent hits to satisfy cravings.

Chest tightness and cough

Some users report a feeling of tightness in the chest, especially when switching to a stronger device or using high-strength disposables back to back. It is usually linked to:

High nicotine concentration (20mg and up)
Overuse in a short time window
Low hydration and high vapour intake

If this continues after lowering nicotine or pacing your sessions, speak to a medical professional. For most, switching to a refillable pod and lower strength helps.

Are these side effects dangerous?

The UK’s National Health Service and organisations like NHS Quit Smoking maintain that vaping is significantly less harmful than smoking. Most reported side effects are mild and linked to overuse, not toxicity. Long-term health data is still being collected, but the consensus remains: vaping is better than smoking, but not 100% risk-free.

Nicotine strength matters

If you experience side effects, your nicotine level may be too high. Many new users grab 20mg disposables, then feel dizzy or nauseous. Try:

Dropping to 10mg nic salts
Switching to refillable pods with lower output
Spacing out your puffs

Listen to your body, not the hype

Vaping culture sometimes pushes max clouds and high-nic for impact. But that approach can backfire. Your goal is satisfaction, not discomfort. If you feel off, slow down, adjust your setup, or try new gear. Not every device suits every user.

Side effect or just bad hardware?

Burnt taste? Headaches after 10 minutes of use? It might not be you, it might be your coil. Low-quality pods, burnt cotton and overused disposables can mimic side effects. Check out pods and coils built for performance and health safety.

Final word: Stay informed, stay balanced

Vaping is not completely harmless, but it is a dramatically safer alternative to cigarettes. Most side effects are manageable with better habits and proper device use. Listen to your body, take breaks, and choose high-quality e-liquids from trusted UK retailers.

Join the conversation

Have you experienced any side effects from vaping? What helped you adjust? Share your story below, or join us on social to keep the chat going.

Need better gear or advice? Check out the full selection at vapelounge.uk including smoking alternatives and e-liquids designed for smooth performance.

We are open in Manchester at 147 Great Ancoats Street and Stoke on Trent at 71 Stafford Street. Pop in, ask questions, and explore your options. Contact us at hello@vapelounge.uk or ring 0161 637 6066.