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Vaping with Asthma or COPD: What You Need to Know

Posted on by admin
20
Jan

If you have asthma or COPD, it’s completely normal to worry about how vaping might affect your breathing. We’re asked about this in the shop all the time, and the simple truth is this:

Vaping isn’t risk-free — but it is widely recognised as far less harmful than smoking.
For people who currently smoke, switching to vaping can reduce a huge amount of the damage caused by cigarettes. That’s why many health organisations in the UK recommend vaping as a safer alternative for adult smokers.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the basics in a clear, easy-to-understand way — what we know, what to look out for, and how to vape more comfortably if you have asthma or COPD.

1. First Things First: Smoking vs Vaping

If you have asthma or COPD and still smoke, stopping smoking is the single best thing you can do for your lungs.

Cigarettes contain:

  • Tar
  • Carbon monoxide
  • Thousands of toxic chemicals
  • Smoke that irritates and inflames the airways

Vaping doesn’t produce smoke — it produces vapour — and contains far fewer harmful chemicals.

Public Health England, the NHS, and Asthma + Lung UK all agree that vaping is significantly less harmful than smoking.
So for people who smoke and have breathing conditions, switching can be a positive step.

But if you don’t smoke?
Vaping isn’t recommended, and there’s no benefit in starting.

2. Can You Vape If You Have Asthma or COPD?

The short answer: many people with asthma or COPD do vape, especially when they’re using it to quit smoking.

Customers who make the switch often tell us they:

  • Cough less
  • Breathe more comfortably
  • Experience fewer flare-ups triggered by smoke
  • Feel better day-to-day

However, everyone is different. Some may find certain flavours or devices a little irritating at first.

Think of it like stepping out of a smoky room into fresh air — it’s far better, but your lungs still notice the change.

3. Vapourium’s NHS Stop Smoking Support

If you want to quit smoking safely and confidently, you don’t have to do it alone.

Vapourium works directly with the NHS through approved stop smoking services.

This means you can visit us in-store and we can support you with:

  • Friendly guidance on quitting
  • Helping you choose the right vaping device
  • Advice tailored to asthma or COPD
  • Access to NHS stop smoking referrals
  • Ongoing support throughout your quitting journey

You’re not left to guess what to buy or how to start — you have a team who genuinely wants to help you breathe easier.

4. Tips for Vaping More Comfortably with Asthma or COPD

If you have a breathing condition, the following tips can make a big difference:

✔ Choose the Right Nicotine Strength

Too low = you vape more often
Too high = it feels harsh

A good starting point:

  • 10mg or 20mg nic salts for pod kits
  • 3mg for shortfills in sub-ohm devices

✔ Nicotine Salts Are Usually Smoother

Nic salts are gentler on the throat and often more comfortable for people with sensitive airways.

✔ Avoid Very Icy or Extremely Sweet Flavours

Cooling agents and strong sweeteners can irritate some people’s chests.

✔ Pick a Device with Tighter, Cigarette-Like Airflow

This usually feels smoother and easier to control.

✔ Take Shorter, Softer Puffs

Long, deep inhales can trigger coughing. Gentle, steady puffs work best.

✔ Drink More Water

Vaping can slightly dry the throat and airways — hydration helps a lot.

5. When to Speak to a GP or Asthma Nurse

If you notice:

  • Chest tightness
  • Increased coughing or wheezing
  • Your inhalers not working as well
  • Discomfort after vaping

It’s worth speaking to a healthcare professional.

It may simply mean you need:

  • A different nicotine strength
  • A smoother flavour
  • A different device
  • Advice on inhaling technique

Your healthcare team can support you alongside the NHS stop smoking services we work with.

6. What the Research Says (In Plain English)

Here’s the easy-to-understand version:

  • Vaping is far less harmful than smoking.
  • There is no evidence that vaping causes asthma or COPD.
  • Removing cigarette smoke from your lungs is the biggest benefit.
  • Some people may feel a little irritation at first — this usually settles.
  • UK health organisations continue to support vaping as a quit tool for adult smokers.

This is why the NHS partners with reputable vape shops — because switching, when done properly, can make a huge difference for smokers with lung conditions.

7. Thinking About Making the Switch?

If you smoke and have asthma or COPD, switching to vaping could genuinely help you breathe more comfortably in the long run.

Our advice:

  • Start simple
  • Use nic salts
  • Avoid extremely icy liquids
  • Give your lungs time to adjust
  • Ask us for support whenever you need it

With NHS-backed guidance, there’s no need to feel unsure or overwhelmed.

Final Thoughts

Having asthma or COPD doesn’t automatically mean you can’t vape — and for many smokers, vaping is a much safer alternative that removes the harm of smoke from the lungs. The key is choosing the right setup, using the right strength, and listening to your body.

If you’re ready to make the switch, come and see us at Vapourium. Through our NHS stop smoking partnership, we can help you find a setup that suits your needs and support you throughout your journey.

Your lungs matter — and we’re here to help every step of the way.

admin