Vaping and Heart Palpitations: Causes, Risks & What to Know

Heart palpitations can be unsettling, and some people notice them after vaping. This guide explains how vaping — especially nicotine use — can affect heart rate, who may be more sensitive, and how to reduce risks while vaping responsibly.

Reviewed by VapeSales · Updated 2026

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What Are Heart Palpitations?

Heart palpitations are sensations where your heartbeat feels faster, stronger, or irregular. They’re often described as fluttering, pounding, or racing in the chest.

In many cases, palpitations are harmless and temporary, triggered by stimulants like caffeine, stress, anxiety — or nicotine.

Can Vaping Cause Heart Palpitations?

Yes, vaping can cause heart palpitations in some people, mainly due to nicotine. Nicotine is a stimulant that increases heart rate and blood pressure by activating the sympathetic nervous system.

This effect is not unique to vaping — it’s also seen with cigarettes, caffeine, and nicotine replacement products.

Why Nicotine Affects Heart Rate

• Stimulates adrenaline release
• Increases heart rate temporarily
• Can heighten awareness of heartbeat

Higher-strength nicotine products, including nicotine salts, may feel stronger because they absorb more efficiently — especially in pod systems and MTL vaping.

Who Is More Likely to Experience Palpitations?

Some people are more sensitive to nicotine than others. You may be more likely to notice palpitations if you:

• Use high-strength nicotine (e.g. 20mg nic salts)
• Are new to vaping or nicotine
• Vape frequently in a short period
• Have anxiety or sensitivity to stimulants
• Combine vaping with caffeine or energy drinks

Nicotine Salts vs Freebase: Does It Matter?

Because nicotine salts absorb faster, some users may feel effects — including increased heart rate — more quickly than with freebase nicotine.

This doesn’t mean nicotine salts are unsafe, but choosing the right strength is important.

How to Reduce the Risk of Palpitations While Vaping

• Lower your nicotine strength (e.g. 10mg instead of 20mg)
• Take slower, shorter vaping sessions
• Avoid combining vaping with caffeine
• Stay hydrated
• Use low-wattage pod systems

If you’re unsure which strength suits you, our guide on 10mg vs 20mg nicotine salts can help you choose more comfortably.

Is This Dangerous?

For most healthy adults, occasional nicotine-related palpitations are temporary and not dangerous. However, persistent or severe palpitations should always be discussed with a healthcare professional.

This article is informational and does not replace medical advice.

Vaping vs Smoking and Heart Health

Public health bodies including the NHS note that while nicotine affects heart rate, the major cardiovascular risks of smoking come from combustion — not nicotine alone.

This is why vaping is widely considered a harm-reduction alternative for adult smokers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can vaping cause heart palpitations?

Yes, vaping can cause heart palpitations in some people, mainly due to nicotine. Nicotine is a stimulant that can temporarily increase heart rate, especially at higher strengths.

Are nicotine salts more likely to cause palpitations?

Nicotine salts absorb faster than freebase nicotine, which may cause noticeable effects more quickly in sensitive users. Choosing the right nicotine strength can help reduce this.

Are heart palpitations from vaping dangerous?

For most healthy adults, occasional nicotine-related palpitations are temporary and not dangerous. Persistent or severe symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Can lowering nicotine strength help?

Yes. Reducing nicotine strength, vaping less frequently, and avoiding stimulants like caffeine can help minimise palpitations.

Final Thoughts

Vaping can cause heart palpitations in some users, mainly due to nicotine sensitivity. Choosing the right nicotine strength, vaping responsibly, and understanding your body’s response can help minimise discomfort.

If symptoms persist, reducing nicotine intake or speaking with a healthcare professional is advised.