Could your vape be affecting your heart? What cardiology patients need to know

E-cigarettes work by heating a liquid (often called e-liquid or vape juice) to create an aerosol that is inhaled. The liquid typically contains propylene glycol, vegetable glycerine, flavourings, and usually nicotine. The flavouring compounds can include a wide range of chemicals, some of which are poorly understood in terms of long-term inhalation effects.

Recently, attention has focused on so-called 'cooling agents' such as WS-23 (2-isopropyl-N,2,3-trimethylbutyramide). These are added to create a refreshing sensation, particularly in menthol and fruit-flavoured products. While considered safe for use in food, their effect when inhaled directly into the lungs and absorbed into the bloodstream is not yet fully known. A 2026 study raised concerns that such cooling ingredients may interfere with the heart's electrical signalling, potentially triggering arrhythmias.

Nicotine itself is a stimulant that can raise blood pressure and heart rate, placing extra demand on the cardiovascular system. For someone with an existing heart condition, this additional strain may be unwelcome. More recent research, however, suggests that other components in e-liquids could also play a role.

Scientists have observed that certain flavouring chemicals, including cooling agents, can affect the ion channels that control the heart's rhythm. In laboratory settings, exposure to these compounds has been linked to an increased likelihood of irregular heartbeats. While these findings are preliminary and based on animal and cellular models, they highlight a potential risk that warrants caution, particularly for those with a history of arrhythmias or palpitations.

If you have been diagnosed with a heart condition—such as atrial fibrillation, angina, or heart failure—or if you experience unexplained palpitations, it is sensible to be mindful of any substance that might influence your heart rhythm. The British Heart Foundation advises that while e-cigarettes are likely less harmful than smoking tobacco, they are not risk-free and should ideally be used only as a temporary aid to stop smoking, under guidance.

For patients in Poole and Bournemouth who are already attending cardiology clinics, we encourage an open conversation about all lifestyle factors, including vaping. If you are using vapes to quit smoking, your consultant can help you weigh the potential risks and benefits within the context of your individual health.

If you develop new palpitations, chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath while vaping—or at any time—you should seek prompt medical attention. These symptoms can sometimes indicate an arrhythmia or other cardiac issue that may need investigation, such as a Holter monitor test or echocardiogram.

Do not ignore changes in your symptoms. As a general rule, if something feels different or concerning, it is safer to get checked. The NHS recommends dialling 999 if you experience sudden chest pain that spreads to your arms, back, neck or jaw, or if you have severe difficulty breathing, as this could be a sign of a heart attack.

Please remember: this article provides general information and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. If you have concerns about vaping and your heart health, speak to your consultant cardiologist who can offer guidance based on your personal clinical history.

This article draws on guidance and information from the British Heart Foundation, the NHS, and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), as well as recent scientific presentations at meetings of the European Society of Cardiology. For personalised advice, always speak to your consultant cardiologist.