Why Do JUULs and High-Nicotine E-Juice Make Me Feel So Bad?
While JUUL devices and high-nicotine e-juices might seem like a perfect solution for nicotine addiction, they can often lead to unpleasant sensations such as dizziness and nausea. This article aims to explain why these products can make users feel unwell, how nicotine tolerance plays a significant role, and offer alternatives for those seeking a more comfortable vaping experience.
Design and Intensity of JUUL Devices
The JUUL device is engineered to deliver a potent dose of nicotine. A single puff (~.05 milliliters at 60mg/ml nicotine concentration) can be equivalent to a full cigarette, which usually contains 2–4mg of nicotine. This intensity is intentional to cater to individuals already addicted to nicotine.
For those not accustomed to this high level of nicotine, the experience can be very uncomfortable. The dizziness and sickness associated with JUULs highlight the importance of carefully selecting the nicotine concentration that suits your physical condition and tolerance levels.
Human Tolerance and Nicotine Sensitivity
Individuals have varying levels of tolerance to nicotine. In my own experience, as a long-time smoker of ultra-light cigarettes for 20 years out of 39, no nicotine patch I tried could suit me, as they all caused nausea, heart palpitations, and nightmares. When I first started vaping, the advice from the vape shop about using 18mg nicotine was met with an adverse effect, which almost permanently derailed my vaping journey. Even 12mg nicotine levels were excessive for me at the time.
Lowering to 6mg e-juice made a significant difference, allowing me to start vaping regularly. This experience illustrates the importance of starting with a lower nicotine concentration and gradually increasing it based on personal tolerance and comfort.
Modern Vaping Trends and Technology
Today, most vaping devices, especially mods, operate with high airflow and high wattage, producing a significant amount of vapor. Vaporizers that generate more vapor can increase nicotine intake, leading to discomfort. To mitigate this, lower wattage can reduce the vapor production and, consequently, the amount of nicotine inhaled.
As a seasoned vaper, I specifically use low nicotine liquids (3 or 6mg). Although I enjoy the effects of higher concentrations, my experience has shown me that these strengths are often too much for my system. I currently use the Smoant Charon TC-218W mods set to 44W paired with the Uwell Crown III tanks, along with the KangerTech K-Box Mini mods set to 28W and the KangerTech Subtank Mini tanks.
The e-liquids I frequently use include Cloud Batter Fried Cream Cakes, Deep Fried Twinkies, French Toast, Banana Cream Pie, Cloud Berry Lava Flow, and Strawberry Shortcake flavors. These choices have allowed me to find a vaping setup that minimizes discomfort while still providing an enjoyable experience.
Risks and Alternatives
Based on discussions and feedback, it seems that using higher nicotine strengths, especially when paired with powerful vaping setups, can lead to discomfort for many users. This highlights the importance of selecting the right nicotine strength and vaping setup to fit your tolerance and preferences.
While JUULs and high-nicotine e-juices offer a potent solution for quitting smoking, they may not be suitable for everyone due to their high nicotine concentration. Individuals looking for a more comfortable vaping experience should consider lower nicotine strengths and carefully choose their vaping devices to align with their tolerance levels.
If you're experiencing discomfort or health issues from vaping, it might be wise to consult with a healthcare professional or a knowledgeable vaping community to determine the best course of action.