Vaping has become an increasingly popular alternative to smoking, but even seasoned vapers can experience mishaps such as vape juice in the mouth. This unexpected situation might raise concerns about safety, health risks, and what to do next. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the causes, potential side effects, and preventative measures related to swallowing e-liquid or getting it into your mouth.
Understanding Vape Juice in Your Mouth: Causes and Common Scenarios
One of the first steps in addressing this issue is understanding why vape juice ends up in your mouth in the first place. Here are the most common causes:
Vape Spitback
- Spitback happens when excess e-liquid accumulates in the coil chamber and is forcefully ejected into your mouth while inhaling.
- This is often caused by overfilling the tank or using the wrong wattage settings.
Leaking Tanks
- A poorly sealed or defective vape tank can lead to leaking, allowing e-liquid to flow where it shouldn’t.
- Improper storage or mishandling can also contribute to this issue.
Incorrect Inhalation Technique
- New users sometimes draw too hard or too quickly, which can cause vape juice to bypass the vaporization process and end up in the mouth.
Over-Priming the Coil
- Priming the coil is essential to prevent dry hits, but over-priming can saturate the wick excessively, leading to spitback and leakage.
What Happens If You Ingest Vape Juice?
Accidentally swallowing e-liquid or getting it in your mouth may feel alarming, especially for those unfamiliar with its effects. Here’s what you need to know:
The Ingredients in Vape Juice
E-liquid typically contains four primary components:
- Propylene Glycol (PG) and Vegetable Glycerin (VG): Generally safe and widely used in food and pharmaceuticals.
- Flavorings: Safe for ingestion in regulated amounts.
- Nicotine (optional): The primary concern when vape juice is swallowed or absorbed.
Potential Side Effects of Swallowing E-Liquid
Mild Irritation:
- If ingested in small quantities, PG and VG can cause minor irritation in the throat or stomach.
Nicotine-Related Symptoms:
- For nicotine-containing vape juice, even small amounts can lead to side effects such as nausea, dizziness, or headaches.
Nicotine Poisoning:
- Ingesting large quantities of nicotine can cause more severe symptoms, including vomiting, rapid heartbeat, or seizures.
How to Handle Vape Juice in Your Mouth
If you’ve accidentally gotten vape juice in your mouth, follow these steps to address the situation safely:
- Spit It Out Immediately. Do not swallow the liquid. Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water.
- Wash Your Hands and Face. If any e-liquid comes into contact with your skin, wash it off with soap and water to prevent absorption.
- Stay Calm. A small amount of vape juice is unlikely to cause serious harm, especially if it’s nicotine-free.
- Monitor for Symptoms. For nicotine-containing liquids, watch for symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, or rapid heartbeat.
- Seek Medical Advice if Necessary. If you experience severe symptoms or ingest a significant amount of nicotine, contact a healthcare professional immediately.
Nicotine Poisoning Symptoms from Vaping
It’s crucial to recognize the signs of nicotine poisoning, particularly for vapers who use high-nicotine e-liquids. Symptoms may include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or confusion
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Excessive sweating or salivation
- Muscle tremors
- In severe cases, seizures or loss of consciousness
If you or someone else exhibits these symptoms, seek emergency medical help right away.
Why Does Vape Juice Leak and How to Prevent It
Leaking vape juice can be both frustrating and a safety concern. Here’s why it happens and how to avoid it:
Causes of Vape Juice Leaks
- Overfilled Tank: Overfilling leaves no room for air, causing pressure that forces liquid out.
- Worn-Out Seals: O-rings and other seals can degrade over time, leading to leaks.
- Improper Storage: Storing your vape upside down or in a hot environment can cause e-liquids to leak.
Tips to Prevent Leaking
- Fill the Tank Properly: Leave a small air gap to maintain pressure balance.
- Check Seals Regularly: Inspect and replace worn-out O-rings.
- Store Your Vape Upright: Keep your device in an incredible, upright position when not in use.
- Use the Right Wattage: Match the wattage to the recommended settings for your coil.
How to Prevent Vape Spitback
Spitback can ruin the vaping experience and increase the chances of getting vape juice in your mouth. Follow these steps to minimize it:
- Don’t Overfill the Tank. Always check the tank’s maximum fill line and ensure you leave some space for air. Overfilling creates pressure that pushes the excess liquid into the coil and mouthpiece, leading to spit back or leakage.
- Avoid Over-Priming. When priming a new coil, apply only a few drops of e-liquid directly onto the wick to saturate it. Too much liquid can flood the coil, causing e-liquid to spray into your mouth during use.
- Check Coil Compatibility. Ensure your coil’s resistance matches your device’s recommended wattage settings. Using incompatible coils can result in improper vaporization and excess liquid buildup, leading to spitback.
- Take Gentle Draws. Avoid forceful or rapid inhalation, which can pull unvaporized liquid into the mouth. Instead, draw slowly to allow the device to vaporize the e-liquid properly.
- Regular Maintenance. Clean your tank, coils, and mouthpiece frequently to remove residue and buildup that can block airflow. Regular maintenance ensures consistent performance and reduces the risk of spit back and leaking.
Practical Steps to Protect Yourself
Preventative measures are the best way to avoid mishaps with e-liquid. Here are some general guidelines:
Do’s
- Use Trusted Brands: Buy e-liquids and devices from reputable manufacturers.
- Store E-Liquids Safely: Keep them out of reach of children and pets.
- Handle with Care: Be cautious when refilling or handling vape juice.
Don’ts
- Ignore Leaks or Damage: Repair or replace faulty equipment immediately.
- Use Unregulated Devices: Ensure your vape meets safety standards.
- Inhale Too Quickly: Practice controlled, steady draws.
Accidentally, getting vape juice in your mouth may be unpleasant, but it’s usually manageable with the proper knowledge and precautions. Understanding the causes, recognizing symptoms, and following preventative measures can significantly reduce risks. Remember to handle your vape device and e-liquids responsibly to enjoy a safe and satisfying vaping experience.
