Do Nic Salts Cause Acid Reflux?

Understand whether nicotine salts can contribute to acid reflux, why it happens, and how to minimise discomfort while vaping.

Nicotine salts, commonly known as nic salts, have transformed the vaping experience by providing smoother throat hits and faster nicotine delivery especially at higher strengths. They are particularly popular with smokers making the switch to vaping because they closely replicate the satisfaction of cigarettes.

However, some users report experiencing acid reflux or heartburn after using nic salts. Is there a connection, or is it just coincidence? This article explores what acid reflux is, whether nic salts can trigger it, and how to minimise any discomfort.

Understanding Acid Reflux

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the oesophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest (heartburn). Common triggers include:

• Spicy or fatty foods
• Coffee and alcohol
• Lying down after eating
• Smoking or high nicotine consumption

The condition can be occasional or chronic (known as gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD).

What Are Nic Salts?

Nic salts are a form of nicotine combined with an acid (usually benzoic or citric acid) to lower pH levels and make nicotine smoother to inhale. This allows higher nicotine strengths (up to 20 mg/ml in the UK) to be vaped comfortably, making them ideal for new vapers coming off cigarettes.

Because nic salts absorb faster into the bloodstream, they can deliver nicotine satisfaction quickly and with less throat irritation compared to traditional freebase e-liquids.

Can Nic Salts Trigger Acid Reflux?

There is no conclusive medical evidence that nic salts directly cause acid reflux. However, nicotine itself is a known relaxant of the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES), the muscle that keeps stomach acid from rising. When the LES relaxes, it can allow acid to travel upward, increasing the likelihood of reflux.

The smoother nature of nic salts may encourage users to vape more frequently or at higher strengths, leading to greater overall nicotine intake. This could make reflux more noticeable in sensitive individuals.

Other Contributing Factors

Sometimes what feels like a reaction to nic salts may actually be caused by other factors, such as:

• PG/VG ratio: High-PG e-liquids can cause a dry throat and irritation, mimicking reflux symptoms.
• Flavours: Citrus, coffee, and strong menthol flavours can sometimes trigger heartburn in sensitive users.
• Vaping style: Chain vaping can increase throat irritation and create a feeling of tightness.

It’s important to rule out these factors before assuming nic salts are the cause.

Tips to Reduce Acid Reflux While Vaping

If you experience reflux while using nic salts, consider these adjustments:

• Lower your nicotine strength: Dropping from 20 mg to 10 mg can reduce nicotine’s impact on the LES.
• Switch flavours: Avoid very acidic or sharp flavours if they seem to make symptoms worse.
• Take smaller puffs: Avoid chain vaping and allow time between draws.
• Stay upright after vaping: Just as with eating, remaining upright helps prevent acid from moving upward.
• Hydrate: Drink water to reduce throat dryness and wash away any lingering irritation.
  

When to Seek Medical Advice

Occasional heartburn is common and usually nothing to worry about, but you should see a doctor if:

• Reflux happens several times a week
• Over-the-counter remedies don’t help
• You have difficulty swallowing or persistent cough
• You experience severe chest pain

A doctor can help rule out GERD or other conditions that may require treatment.

Choosing the Right Nic Salts

If you’re sensitive to reflux, it’s worth experimenting with different e-liquids and strengths until you find what works for you. Look for smooth, balanced nic salt options that are not overly acidic. You can explore a wide range of blends via Freesmo’s nic salts collection to find strengths and flavours that suit your preferences.

Finding Balance for Comfort and Satisfaction

Nic salts remain one of the most effective tools for smokers looking to switch to vaping, and occasional reflux doesn’t have to mean giving them up entirely. By adjusting nicotine strength, choosing gentler flavours, and paying attention to when and how you vape, you can usually reduce symptoms and enjoy a smoother experience.