Joy - January 6, 2008, 2:43 am

It has been five days since quitting smoking. Everything is going great except I can't sleep. I wake up every coulpe of hours. Tonight I just couldn't sleep. Is this withdrawal or am I just experiencing an increase of energy.

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paul - January 6, 2008, 3:48 pm

Joy,

I'd say your insomnia is both a withdrawal symptom and having increased energy. If you can take a week or so off work, that might help until your sleep returns to normal.

Don't get discouraged! Keep up the battle. The dividends are enormous!

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Joy - January 11, 2008, 8:38 am

Thanks Paul
It's been 1-1/2 weeks now and things seem a lot better. My sleeping pattern is back to normal. I do beleive it was a combination of withdrawal and energy increase. I think I am a little ADD at times. (lol) Now I go out walking in the evenings to help burn off the extra energy. It helps! Thanks again for the encouragement.

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Paul - January 11, 2008, 10:27 am

Joy - glad to hear you're sleeping now. Exercise is a great way to work out the changes after quitting. I've been smoke-free for 14 months now and one of the things that helped me get over the cravings was to go for a walk whenever I felt like a cigarette. Now I exercise regularly and feel great - so much more productive than before.

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Tim - February 23, 2008, 5:47 am

Just began to stop smoking
8 years of smoking and have been off for 5 days, smoking a cigarette max of 2 a day to ease the horrid headaches. Marijuana helps the sleep, loss of appetite, irritability, and headaches but is illegal so not the best suggestion.

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NOELEEN - February 26, 2008, 7:20 pm

I was fifty cigarette a day smoker for almost 25years, When I decided to give up smoking after a bout of bronchitus,I went through a bad bout of depression which lasted for approx two months. This depression started exactly two weeks after giving up smoking. I got over it and it is many months and I have not had a cigarettte.
could the depression be as a result of giving up cigarett6es?

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Paul - March 1, 2008, 12:26 pm

Noeleen,

Sounds to me like the depression is linked to the nicotine withdrawal. I'm no doctor, but 50 cigs a day was giving you a a massive nicotine dose - there's sure to be all sorts of effects when you give that up.

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Erica - March 19, 2008, 1:41 am

I't has been about three days today (3/19/2008). I've been a smoker for about two and a half-years, and smoked about 10 to 12 cigarettes per day. And I'm feeling pretty anxious,I have bad headaches,little sleep, and probaly most of what everyone else in the world feels when they quit cigs.I know all of this will subside in short time, and am very happy I quit now instead of years down the road, because I'm still very young(20).

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Paul - March 19, 2008, 12:15 pm

Erica,

I know it's hard now, but keep the big picture in mind - a lifetime free of cigarettes. You'll feel much better in a day or two - keep it up!

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tarun - March 27, 2008, 7:44 am

been a smoker for 19 years,quit 2 months back but still have problrms with sore throat and tongue,get some unexplained blood from my mouth too.any suggestions pls reply.

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Paul - March 27, 2008, 9:54 am

Tarun,

I think you should check with your doctor. The sore throat and tongue are quite common, but not the blood.

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Mar - April 2, 2008, 11:16 am

I quit Feb 25th. This week I am having incredible withdrawals. I thought by now it would be over. Been drinking lots of water and doing deep breathing. Maybe I'll take a walk.

Hang in there everyone.

Mar

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Paul - April 2, 2008, 11:16 pm

Mar,

The first couple of weeks are the hardest. Going for walks is a really good idea. Do some exercise - read a book - anything to take your mind off smoking will help. Just keep it up and the withdrawal will get better everyday.

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Andrew - April 9, 2008, 11:33 am

I just quit for the second time in my smoking career - been off them for just over a week now with the help of Chantix. Was the easiest quit I could've hoped for.

I too have a sore tongue and throat, but I hear that goes away after a week or so - not sure what causes it though.

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Carmen - April 13, 2008, 11:09 pm

I first quit from 2 packs a day by putting them down, walking and just breathing.Although I wanted to smoke every day for one whole yr. Then it stopped. That was when I was 18 and had smoked 4 yrs. 20 yrs later I took a couple drags to show my teenager how silly he looked. I layed awake for 3 nites wanting one. For the last 10 yrs. I have smoked a pack a day for all but 1 1/2 yrs. I quit 54 HOURS ago. I am actually sick. headache nausea sweats irritability feel like i can't breath.How do you just not smoke when you are really sick? Is it worth it? I have all the reasons not too but whoo.

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sam - April 14, 2008, 7:27 am

quit for 3 weeks now.swollen gums and geographical tongue,blood from the gums too.

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Paul - April 14, 2008, 8:33 am

Carmen

Maybe nicotine gum would help you. It sounds like your body became accustomed to nicotine at a very young age. It's very addictive, that's why you're going through the withdrawal symptoms. Hang in there - it's worth it.

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Carmen - April 14, 2008, 1:14 pm

Paul,
Thankyou for responding. I have a large extended family, but their way of helping is to tell you what to or not to do. I appreciate the encouragement.
Today is a little easier. Not as many pale clammy sweats. Who would of thought nicotine was this addictive. I'll keep hanging in...thank you for hanging and supporting many not only me....

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Dannielle - April 15, 2008, 8:20 pm

hello, it is day 2 for me and i feel awful! Tired, weak, sore throat...but it is sooo worth it! I'm 20 years old and i smoked my first cigarette when i was 9. I tried chantix made me feel crazy now i'm on welbutrin it really works. i will never smoke another cigarette again.


congratulations and good luck for everyone who has quit.

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Josh - April 16, 2008, 9:28 pm

It is one week for me, I quit cold turkey. It hasn't been easy, lots of irritability, muscle tension and coughing up tar like you wouldn't believe. I smoked one pack a day for about 12 years. I read "The Easy Way to Stop Smoking" by Allen Carr. I think it actually helped tremendously because I've gone longer than ever before and I know that this is it! Good god is the muscle tension driving me nuts though. Smoking marijuana does help A LOT with the anxiety and irritability though. Too bad its so expensive...
Good luck everyone!

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Stacey Baier - April 23, 2008, 8:05 pm

I have been smoke free since 4Pm on 4-20-08. I'm 42 year old female, smoked for 9 years, I just quit cold turkey. This has been the hardest thing I have ever done in my life! Today is a little better... I can think without being to foggy (can't recall the last 2 days very well LOL!, ', ', ', ', ', NULL, NULL, 1, 1), hope this feeling goes away QUICK!!! I have been sleeping pretty good, a little chest tightness, no cough yet. I don't wish these feeling on no one. Good luck to all... each day gets us all closer to feeling better and being so much healther.

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Josh - April 24, 2008, 10:39 pm

It is over two weeks, still hanging in there!

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Nancy - April 26, 2008, 11:50 am

Greetings. Today is day 10 of my quit. After a really lousy night's sleep, I woke up with a sore tongue. It feels like it does after a burn. So my quitting has thus far ruined sleeping and eating and I dare not drink or I'll just end up buying a pack.
Thanks for letting me unload, and I hope everyone is successful in dropping this pernicious habit.

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Alisha - April 27, 2008, 12:12 am

hi all

it's been 7 days since i last smoked. The first three days were the hardest, although it has gotten a little easier i was wondering if anyone knew how long it would take for the cravings to go away.

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Paul - April 27, 2008, 7:24 am

Hi Alisha,

It depends on how long you smoked, but I would guess that the physical cravings should be gone after 2 - 4 weeks. The psychological cravings can last much longer - that was the hardest part for me, just getting over the habit of smoking, feeling stressed and wanting to pick up a cigarette just out of habit. You have to learn a new habit of not smoking.

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Stacey - April 27, 2008, 9:05 am

Alisha,
My doctor told me friday the 25th that the nicotine leaves your body in 3 to 4 days then the rest is habit that you have to overcome, to me this is the hardest part as I type I want a cig. really bad! I have been keeping busy, the hardest part so far is this weekend. I will never smoke again!!!

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tarun - May 1, 2008, 5:35 am

well for me i quit 4 months back,but too late , as im diagnosed with cancer.
but the results of quitting smoking were immense.i could feel life as in i had more energy,better white eyes,i could smell food better,lots and lots of benefits.

so people if you quit smoking stick to it and try to make all people who smoke --- QUIT before its too late.
people NEVER SMOKE AGAIN IT KILLS .
im an example.
good luck.

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Nancy - May 1, 2008, 11:41 am

Tarun, I'm so sorry about your diagnosis. I certainly hope you don't mean it's too late in the worst sense of the phrase and that you cancer is beatable. All the best to you in the coming months.

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Stacey - May 1, 2008, 5:36 pm

tarun

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Stacey - May 1, 2008, 5:42 pm

tarun
Sorry it posted way to soon, laptop very picky tonight ;-)
I don't know what type of cancer you have but a girl I work with beat cancer and they said she couldn't, so hang in there be strong! I know its easy to type those words for I am not walking in your shoes but I did have a TIA stroke in November from smoking. My fear of having another one is with me everyday!

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Tracey - May 14, 2008, 1:06 pm

Hi.. I have been trying to quit for 10 weeks, I did fine until week 8, then the odd cig struck. I lost my mum to cancer February 7th this year and my quit day was March 13th. It seems as I go through this grieving (which is killing me) the cigarette thing gets harder. Initially i was so paranoid about cancer (my mum was 63, out shopping one week, a week later in hospital, 13 days later died of cancer in 5 places that she never knew she had) I have been paranoid i would die within a week etc, this made it easier to not smoke.. now i am going through the depression phase.. sad all the time and feelings of whats the point, lets just get death over with kind of thing, then i get all out of control and reach for a cig.. then i feel bad and want to cry cos i have had one ;o( I just feel like a out of control yo yo. I have been to see a cancer councillor once, and am thinking of going back.. do you think my reactions are cigarette quitting or grief or both. what a cocktail.. dare I have a glass of wine as I am well worse then! I am on step 3 patches (5mg) am fine all day.. its the night times that get me, maybe as there is another smoker in my house? I was doing so well, not sure how to get back in focus? any advise would be great ;o(

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Paul - May 14, 2008, 9:17 pm

Tracey,

You've been hit with a lot all at once. I'm really sorry to hear about your Mom, but you've got to see her death as a real wakeup for you. You've got a good chance to quit the habit, but you've got a lot against you - a smoker in the house (not good!) dealing with your mother's death. I think you should definitely go back to the councilor you were seeing. You've got 10 weeks of non-smoking under your belt, don't give up that fantastic accomplishment. Just hang in there, go out with a non-smoking friend, keep yourself positive because there's a lot of good things to live for and being a non-smoker helps you enjoy them all the more.

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ana lascala - May 17, 2008, 6:48 pm

i have been trying to quit smoking after 50 or so years some days more than others. i am now smoking maybe 1-4 cigs a day depending if i can buy them from someone i pay 50 cents per cig.last night was the worst nigth for me in a long time and i want to know if i can attribute how i felt to withdrawal.i couldn't sleep, had pains here them there i was constipated,i was freezing cold and i live in florida!!!!!!!! will you please let me know what i can do to get rid of these side effects ?
thank you
ana lascala

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Paul - May 19, 2008, 6:41 pm

Ana:

The withdrawal symptoms are caused by nicotine, so i think you would benefit from a nicotine substitute - gum, patches etc. Good luck - keep going - it's well worth it.

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Suellen - May 28, 2008, 1:32 pm

Well, today is day one of the quitting smoking process. I've tried many times before and made it up to 1 month without a cig in the past. I'm 26 and have been smoking since I was 15..1/2 a pack to a full pack a day. I'm using the patch this time..and I've never experienced anxiety like I am today. Doesn't help that work is slow lately so I was taking quite a few smoke breaks to pass the time. I can't wait for the cravings and the withdrawals to subside. I'm sure everyone around me is tired of my complaining :) I decided I had to quit. I'm on my second helping of bronchitis in less than 2 months and last time it even went into pneumonia. I was afraid if I didn't quit this time that my lungs would just give out. Good luck to everyone!!

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rohit - June 2, 2008, 3:00 am

Tarun , dont be down pal , there is hope , tell me how old are you and what cancer you have, i assure you i will give you a suggestion which will lighten you up. trust me.

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Jessie - June 24, 2008, 11:14 am

I started smoking about 5 years ago, the last two years I've been smoking cloves, perhaps 2-5 (more if I'm drinking) a day. I had one clove on Sunday around 4 pm, 1 Monday (yesterday) around 8 am, and today I've hit the 30 hr mark! Things aren't so bad because I'm not that heavy of a smoker, but I just don't want to use that as a justification to buy ONE MORE PACK. Good luck everyone.

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Erin - July 5, 2008, 2:45 am

Thank all of you for your testemonials. Day 3 for me, after about 2 and a half years of smoking. Cant tell you how bad I just want to cry right now. I feel like everyone around me hates me, most importantly my boyfriend. My tongue hurts constantly, has taken on a strange color, and i always have a fowl taste in my mouth. is this weird? Food never sounds good and if i manage to get something down, i worry that the nausea will kick in. im so stressed and tired but cant sleep. it doesnt help at all that i am a bartender by profession and am around smoke constantly. anyway, good luck to you all. we can do this.

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Paul - July 5, 2008, 7:32 am

Erin,

A lot of what you are experiencing is common for anyone who quits - not much of a comfort, I know, but remember that lot's of people have gotten through it. It gets better and easier every day, but if you're around smokers every day, the temptation to have "just one" is very strong. Can you take a week off work while you get over the worst of the withdrawal symptoms?

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Barbara - July 12, 2008, 4:28 pm

I have quit smoking cigarettes with the aid of Chantix for approx. two weeks. I have been getting sore throat pain which feels like razor blades cutting the inside of my throat. I have also been depressed. Are these symptoms common in withdrawal?
Thank you.

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Paul - July 12, 2008, 8:16 pm

Barbara,
The withdrawal symptoms you are going through are quite common and will pass in a few days. Just keep on with what you're doing - it's worth it in the long run.

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William Cherry - July 12, 2008, 10:20 pm

I'm 25yrs old. Two 1/2yrs ago I almost died from a spontaneous pneumothorax with hemofelia, unexplained lung problem. I lost 2.3 liters of blood and a 3rd of my lung. I quit for 16 months, "No Cheating." A very stressfull event happened and I was crazy to go back. I didn't go back to 2packs of marlboros a day but cigars. I still have blebs on my right lung, and still have post opt. paint. I'm quitting for good now and it's hard finding any support. I know I just need to put it behind me it's crazy what i'm doing. I just had a MRI and it's not good so I know my life is at the stake of my own hands here. If there is anywhere to talk and get support pls e-mail me. Thanks

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frank - July 15, 2008, 4:17 pm

I have smoked for about 30 years. Hard to tell how much I actually smoked because I only smoked my cigs half waqy down. I assume I could say one pack equals one half pack. I smoked nevertheless a pack plus per day. Just cold turkeyed 6 days ago. My chest feels kind of hurty does yours? Im an anxious person who takes normally celexa. I decide against patch because the patch keeps nicotine in system whejn you want to just get rid of it! I eat more! However so far jm doing good I have been in many stores right near cigarette counter and have refrained! I will say however Im just one cigarrette away from smo0king agin. On my most stressfull days I have HUGE urge!

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sue - July 16, 2008, 3:59 pm

hi ive just stoped smoking after 30 years its so hard but iam going to do it i feel its time to think about me and give me the bedt chance for a longer life my thoughts are with all of us thats trying we can only but try
all the best to you all sue

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William Cherry - July 21, 2008, 9:42 pm

I quit last Sunday and it has been really tuff. The first 3-4 day's were the worst. You can only work on today to get to tomorrow. I feel a lot better now and found a trick I didn’t do before that really works well. Coffee stir straw. It cuts my cravings down tremendous. I hate chewing gum and candy but the small coffee stir straw has helped me a lot. I am also taking chantex but its not a wonder drug. honestly I don’t even know if it works but anything to keep your mind off it the better which is not fully possible.

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jay - July 22, 2008, 11:23 am

Its been three days since i stopped smoking and this is so hard for me...i need someone to talk to about this...i need your help..please help me..

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Matthew - July 23, 2008, 2:51 pm

Well its been about 17 years since I started (almost 1/2 my life) so I've finally decided to quit. Its been 3 days now. I've been SO TIRED though since quitting. Is that normal? Its like someones giving me a sleeping pill. I especially like to smoke when I drink alcohol. So I'm dreading this weekend when I go out to the bar. Anyone else have that problem? Smoking while drinking? Any tips? (other than avoid the bar/don't drink?).

Thanks

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Vian - July 23, 2008, 5:58 pm

Well I'm sorry to say that I have not quit smoking yet..I need some help. I have been a smoker for 2 years now and all I ever smoke is the nonfiltered Lucky Strikes..I don't even think I'm addicted anymore..I have quit up to a week or more and not even have the urges that I used to have..yet I still smoke..but lately I have had the worst sore throat for about a month now and it wont go away...and I'm still smoking..so it cant be a withdrawal symptom..so I'm confused..and I need help to get myself to quit..please Paul help me!

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Paul - July 23, 2008, 8:24 pm

Vian,

If you're not addicted, and have a bad sore throat, why do you keep on smoking? Those unfiltered Lucky Strikes are going to kill you - just stop.

Even if you aren't physically addicted, you may have the psychological habit of smoking. Try substituting it with something that's not bad for you - like chewing gum.

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Vian - July 24, 2008, 3:11 pm

Your 100% right...and another thing I have been having a challange with is that i tell myself I can quit whenever I want to quit but I just don't want to stop smoking...I mean cigarettes still have their effect on me and calm me down..the only times I do have a craving is when I'm stressed which in my case is everyday...I started smoking to aggrevate my parents cause they hate it and I feel like when I have to deal with everything they put me through I mentally and physically can't handle it so I cope by smoking..I'm really trying to convince myself to quit..but I think I'm just too stubborn

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Jen - July 29, 2008, 7:29 pm

I have been smoke free for 8 weeks. 6 weeks of that I was using the patch which helped out tremendously! The past two weeks I have felt like a mad woman. I am experiencing extreme ups and downs, difficulty sleeping, and I'm extrememly irritable and angry. I don't feel like smoking, honestly, the smell really bothers me now. I just want to know about how long these symptoms might last and if I should seek addtional help?

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tom - August 1, 2008, 8:38 am

day 2 for me, using the nicotine lozenge. it's amazing how terrible you feel despite still getting nicotine to your system. just thinking about all the horrible, putrid chemicals leaving my system and making me feel like i have the flu is motivation enough to stay off these horrible, poisonous sticks. i know i will feel better soon, but please everyone stick to it. it is so worth it.

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mark - August 3, 2008, 2:35 am

day 3 for this ex-smoker! couldnt sleep last night but my chest feels better already (believe it or not!) was offered a cig. yesterday by a friend of a friend and replied "no thanks i dont smoke" how weird did that feel!!! anyone who is trying to quit- stick with it....i was told you dont feel like s**t forever! and very soon you will feel better than ever! after all...the human body was nt designed to be poisoned every hour by inhaling dried out burning toxic plant matter wrapped in paper and laced with chemicals!!! so lets give it the boot..for good

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gridsleep - August 11, 2008, 7:49 pm

Sixth day cold turkey. I will never smoke again. I am pretty sure I will never be happy again, either. I am resigned to a long life of healthy misery. The thing about quitting smoking is, the life you had before you quit is the same life you have afterward, only without cigarettes. I don't know about some of you, but that's not much to look forward to. Life was never wonderful to begin with. I just wonder what makes it worth all this trouble. I have not found an answer to that question yet.

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Blah. - August 12, 2008, 4:15 pm

I have quit smoking so many times and I always seem to forget how shitty it feels. My blood feels annoyed, nothing seems worth while, who fucking cares.... God, I hate this. I do not want a cigarette, they make me sick to see them, but I do not feel good at all. I can't remember how long it takes my body to turn this around, I hope it's soon. Just took my first shot of St. Johns Wart.

I hate cigarettes.

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adam425206 - August 13, 2008, 5:40 am

gridsleep that is VERY discouraging.. LOL but i feel ya. i am on day one everybody. i am 19 years old at the moment have been smoking for 4 years... i smoke a pack a day and have a pack infront of me right now, have been staring at it for 14 hours now... 14 hours into it and i am already feeling like a fiend. i quit a strong opiate addiction so i will break this, let me tell you all smoking marijuana helped me quit oxys and has assisted quiting smoking ciggerettes every time i fiend for one i just take a hit of weed.

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Gail - August 16, 2008, 4:21 am

My husband has had the flu and hasn't had a cigarette in 8 days (50+ a day smoker) he has been very ill and cannot eat anything much without throwing up, he says he feels sick all the time, do you think this is a combination of both?

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Debbie - August 16, 2008, 10:20 pm

I quit for 5 1/2 months. I was going just beserk. Throwing tantrums at any little thing. Not like me at all. Being very mean to people. Eating soooo much that I made myself sick. Wasnt even hungry, just ate out of sheer upset. Bit my tongue many times till it bled. Cried soo much and always mad. I took it so hard and finally I said its not worth it. I am just sooo mad at everything and everyone. I was so miserable the whole time. Self inflicted torture for me to quit. By the way Im 46 and I jog 10 kms 4-5 days a week even though I smoke. I quit because I figure soon the smoking will affect the jogging. Climb 200 stairs on my jogging route. Would like very much not to smoke, but not going to put myself through that torture ever again. Sorry, I know it is not what people want to hear, but that is exactly how it was for me. Withdrawl is one thing, but going absolutely nuts for that long is too much. Please dont tell me the withdrawl gets easier

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kat - August 19, 2008, 1:31 pm

Hey I smoked a pack every 2 days. I have had 5 cigs in 19 days. I cheated 3 times, but its still better than a pack every 2 days. I get sooo stressed out and I take it out on anyone who is nearby. I started working out and its helped out a little. I go through a pack of gum a day to take my mind off of it (should have a thousand cavities soon..lol) Oh the best part is that I keep having reoccurring dreams of me messing up and smoking. No other physical symptoms just extreme cravings at night and when im stressed. Good luck to everyone!!

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beatrice - September 1, 2008, 9:49 pm

I am on day 21 of quitting, and tonight was the toughest yet. I thought this would be easier by now. Physically, I feel SO MUCH BETTER, but I am so weepy tonight. Question: I smoked a pack a day for 15 years, so I was wondering if I should be coughing things up. I feel great actually, and wondered if I should be nervous that my lungs are not detoxing.

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Paul - September 1, 2008, 10:12 pm

Beatrice:

If you feel great, great! Everyone experiences different symptoms, so don't worry too much. Just keep up the good work!

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Gary - September 16, 2008, 9:33 pm

Today is day 3 going on day 4 since I went cold turkey. I've been smoking at least 5 cigarettes day for the last year and figured I'd quit now while I'm still young. I have to admit I randomly experience feelings where I really want to smoke. For example I was reading over some paper work and just all of a sudden I remember a voice in my head saying "that's nice, but why don't we go and have a camel in the basement eh'?". Thankfully I'm not getting any of these other symptoms minus the irritability and tiredness. Good luck everyone :D

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Bert - September 17, 2008, 12:27 pm

Hey everyone.

It's been 30 days since I quit smoking. I used to smoke about 1/2 - 3/4 pk a day for 23 years. I woke up one morning , sneezed and blood came out of my nose, followed by some in my mouth. Enough to scare the hell out of me.
I decided right on the way that I will not smoke anymore.
Anyway the doctor checked at my lungs ( no liquid build up ) and heart ( rate normal ) and blood pressure ( a bit high ).
So now I have gone through the withdrawals and symptoms - although I am not eating as much as everyone said I would.
The headaches, insomnia, tiredness, anxiety have all come out.. now I may have a sinus infection.My nose is like its on fire. I woke up this morning again with blood in my mouth ( which has not happened since a month ago ).
What I do not understand is how someone can get so sick while trying to heal!!
Anyway I am off to the doctors ( again ) so that they can have another look..
On a footnote: Glad i found you guys on here.. can relate to it.

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ronm - September 29, 2008, 7:40 pm

I quit cold turkey on july 22 after smoking 2 pks a day for over 30 yrs. I went through bad withdrawal,depression,irratbility ,and unable to concentrate.I cheated on sept 2 thru 12,just one or two a day.I stopped and had to go through with- drawal all over again.Its affecting every relationship in my life in a negative way. I can breath easier and am walking every night to try and keep from gaining weight

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Kim - October 1, 2008, 8:12 am

Hi I quit 1 month ago,..and just feel like crap,..nose infection,..Can't sleep
and the first really big withdraw craving came over me today, after being quit for a month! Does this Happen? and how many more of these do I have to go threw?
No I didn't pick up and smoke,..I wanted to but didn't. I just don't want to go threw all this again.
I am 44 years old and started smoking at 17.

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Cnnkt - October 9, 2008, 9:04 pm

Hi, this is my second legitimate attempt at quitting, 3 days in. I have to say it has been FUN. The first initial urges have been turned into pure energy which makes me feel like an absolute kid again. Stay positive people. Smoking isn't a crutch, it's a vice that holds you down from being able to do the things you used to be able to do. Also, keep as active as you possibly can. If you focus on the good and not the bad you will start to become "high on life" instead of buzzing off of nicotine.

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Tom - October 15, 2008, 10:25 pm

This sites awesome. I'm nineteen been smoking a pack a day plus since 15 and recently went on Chantix. I took it for 2 days and decided to stop taking it because it made me throw up. I've been cigarette free for a week, which is the longest I've gone without one in four years and I feel great. Just stay busy, surround yourself with people who encourage not boss you around, drink water, eat breakfast and when you get a craving hold your breath in as long as physically possible and when you release your breath you no longer crave one. Good luck everybody its so nice, my teeth look white you know?

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Tom - October 15, 2008, 10:30 pm

Also, don't waste your time trying to smoke fewer and fewer cigarettes. You ultimately go an entire day of not smoking a cigarette and think you can smoke one. It just doesnt work.

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Kim - October 16, 2008, 4:15 am

Kim has not had a Cig in One month, two weeks, one day, 6 hours, 8 minutes and 3 seconds. 1357 cigarettes not smoked, saving $268.14. Life saved: 4 days, 17 hours, 5 minutes. So forgive the moodswings.
=)
Hi just letting you know,..I haven't started back up!! I am feeling better, I thought I would feel better than this,..But think it is more my Age now and not the Quit smoking part anymore LOL!
I still have cravings but really not bad at all anymore,..Still haven't had a beer either,..not ready.
I have been using the Commits,..they have the Cappichino(sp?) flavor now too,..(Yummy).
So I am still hanging in there. Good luck to all of you too, this is the BEST thing you can do for yourself!!

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Paul - October 16, 2008, 7:14 am

Good going Kim! Keep it up!

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SHARYN - October 19, 2008, 6:01 pm

10-19-08

I'M NOT A SMOKER , BUT MY HUSBAND IS. A HARD CORE SMOKER.A FEW WEEKS AGO HE WAS "LIFE FIGHTED" TO A TRAMA HOSPITAL OUT OF STATE. A COUPLE WEEKS A GO HE BECAME CONFUSED. THE DOCTORS SAY LONG HOSPITAL STAYS CAN DO THIS. TODAY HE REALLY WAS DILLIRIOUS (SP). HE WAS REFUSING TO LET THE NURSES TOUCH HIM AND SAID FOR ME TO COME AND GET HIM. NOW, HAVE YOU HEARD OF THE WITHDRAWAL FROM SUDDEN STOP SMOKING CAUSING SOMETHING LIKE THIS. I SENSE THAT AT LEAST THIS IT MAY BE ADDING TO THE DILLIRIUM. ITS JUST THE WAY MY HUSBAND IS ACTING THAT MAKES ME THINK THAT. HE WASN'T TRYING TO STOP SMOKING , HE HAD NO CHOICE. HAVE YOU HEARD ABOUT THIS ?

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john - October 24, 2008, 7:54 am

My name is John and I am 27. I have not smoked a cig in 3weeks. I used to smoke a pack a day for 7 Yrs. My wife is about to have our first baby and I am going NUTS!!!!. I have been having alot of anxiety and panic attaks which I have never had before. the first couple of weeks I had alot of nausea,hot flashes, shaky feeling, lightheadness, fine it hard to concentrate. I would like to know if anyone has had the same symptoms???
Hang in there everyone it should get better.

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cw - October 29, 2008, 8:43 am

I smoked for 20+ years, I have not had on ein about 4 weeks now. I am doing good but last few nights I am actually dreaming about smoking. This ever happen to anyone?

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austin - November 8, 2008, 9:33 pm

i have been smoking for about 3 years. i smoke about 6-7 a day and just cut back to 2-3. i have been having severe depression, anxiety, nausea (this morning i threw up from drinking water)and i just want to know if there is something else happening besides withdrawls. im trying to be smoke free but just cutting back this much makes me feel like its going to be much harder than i thought. any help or advice is appreciated.

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Kim - November 9, 2008, 5:12 am

Austin,
I have been quit for 2 month 1 week and 1 day. Don't get me wrong our body will go threw all kinds of changes when we quit but our MIND will be our worst ememy.
I said to my self as I cried myself to sleep a few nights that it is just the nico demon tryig to get my self to quit. The nico demon is just trying to get you to take ONE PUFF! cause that is all it takes to get back to smoking more!
You may just have a cold or flu,..and you mind is making you feel like you have to have a cig t feel better!. Don't do it. HANG IN THERE AUSTIN. I still have some BAD day after 2 months,..but I don't think about it long and it goes away faster,..But every ache I wanted to blame myself for Quitting,..and that wasn't the case at all,..MY BODY IS HEALING!!!
Best of luck to ya!!
KIM

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Gboy - November 11, 2008, 2:57 pm

Hi everyone. It has been exactly 15 hours and 56 minutes since I had a smoke. Right now I'm feeling a little cranky and I can't concentrate with my work. I'm dying to have a cigarette but I know I shouldn't. Good luck to all of us.

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austin - November 12, 2008, 3:21 pm

kim thanx for the support. so far the depression and anxiety have gone for the most part, but ive been constipated for 2 days and laxatives bearly helped. the nausea is still around but its going away.

mentally im ok with not smoking. its the physical withdrawls that are killing me right now. i know that i will make it thru, im just really sick physically. if anyone has any advice on getting thru the panick attacks and lack of appetite please let me know.

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Kim - November 12, 2008, 5:38 pm

Austin,
Happy to hear you are doing good!! You are going threw everything that you should be going threw when you quit smoking,..I am sure everyone knows and been where you are,..I know I have.
I joined Yoga for depression and Anxiety,..Walking does great too. STAYING BUSY is the main thing.
Constipation was a big one with me too,..But I use Commit as my NRT. And that will just come back with time,..OJ and Apple juice helps too.
You can do this,..just know what you are going threw is NORMAL,..I have cried,..threw things,.Freaked out, and Blamed my husband cause my 22 year old water heater Died. And he wasn't even home when it happend. LOL
I am 2m 1week and 4 days,..and If I can do this while my Husband still smokes (Outside) then anyone can do this!!! Make this quit about YOU! and only ABOUT YOU!

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austin - November 12, 2008, 9:49 pm

kim, thanks again. ive been doing lots better, constipation is gone and i can feel my digestive system returning to normal. ive now cut down to just one a day (smoked 1/3 at a time) and plan on being completely quit by the 23rd (probably sooner). i know people say that its not good to cut back slowly, but ive been really watching my nicotine intake carefully. the depression and other withdrawl symptoms are still present but are minimal now. i cant wait for the winter season so i can go snowboarding again (i live in utah). i havent been in about 2 years and i want an excuse to stay active this winter. thank you for the support and ill try to remember to post back here once im off for good.

good luck everyone
YOU CAN QUIT!

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Christina - November 14, 2008, 9:11 pm

I've been smoking for about 6 months, about 5 cigarettes a day. I enjoy every one of them. I absolutely love smoking. However, I have decided that I need to take better care of my body. Today I have not smoked at all. I feel chest pain.

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grandma - November 17, 2008, 11:32 am

i have been smoking for 67 years now, im almost dead i got cancer of the throat mouth lungs almost everything i am 79 years old ive been smoking since i was 13, i dont know what to do i smoke five packs of ciggaretes a day, i think i'm going to die do i have any hope

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Pbee - November 17, 2008, 6:40 pm

Grandma...There is always hope when we put our trust in the Lord.

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SISSY - November 25, 2008, 12:50 pm

I have been smoking since I was about 9 years old and openly since I was about 14 years old. I am now 46 marrield with 2 children. I have tried on many occassions to stop, it was really hard because I enjoyed smoking. I decided to quit when my husband said that cigarettes were a trigger for him to do drugs, I love my husband and my children. I prayed, I purchased some lozengers (that I really didnt use) and said a prayer, I havent smoked a cigarette since 11/9/08 about 10:30-11:00 pm and it feels good. Now I did get a sore mouth I assumes it was from the lozenger, I have had really bad gas and this week I have had a sore throat, but nothing so severe that I cant handle. I have saved about $65-70 a dollar. I have not had to many systoms outside of disgusting gas.

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Kim - November 26, 2008, 5:51 pm

Sissy,..I stoped smoking 2 months 3 weeks and 4 days ago. I used commit and all the side effects you are talking about comes with Commit and it is so much better than smoking so keep up the good work. Good luck sisy.

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rachel - December 6, 2008, 7:54 am

my throat is burning. day 4 of quitting. is this normal.

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Carrissa - December 8, 2008, 6:15 pm

This is great reading all these withdrawal comments,,I feel like I am not alone. I am on my ninth day and have every withdrawal sympton in the book,,burning tongue- sweats -waves of cravings -snappy and irritable -weird smoking dreams -eating like mad -on and on. LOL! If things dont ease up I am going for the laser treatment. I am or was a heavy heavy smoker so it's gonna be a fight. But I am determined that I cannot live with the maddness anymore! If you guys use the Champix it may make you sick the first few days but it passes,,,I am also using regular self hypnosis. The Amazing Ravine!LoL:) Also I went on youtube and there is a video called: "Thanx tabacco - you killed my mom." If that doesn't reinforce a person in thier effort to quit, I don't know what will. Actually there's some good stuff on Youtube if you need the visuals to really hammer home why you need to stay quit. Just a thot0- but if your smoking weed cuz you think it's helping, it isn't, your body still thinks your smoking and your lungs won't clear. I quit weed 5 months before this quit smoking thing,,because I tried using weed to quit but got no where. But that is up to you,,Anyways I wish everyone the best of luck and determination. Hope my tips help. :)

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ronna - December 15, 2008, 6:36 am

is blurring of eyesight can be a symptoms of smoking?

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Devon - December 17, 2008, 8:13 am

I am glad to read all these comments. I am not a smoker, I actually got on here because my husband is trying to quit. He's 30 and has smoked for about 16 years of that. I think it's been about eight days. I am so proud of him! He sure has been cleaning alot more but is losing quite a bit of sleep. He has also been the biggest jerk ever. He says I'm not helping him withn this, but I have been...when he has a craving I tell him no, don't turn back now, you've been doing so well and I keep telling him how proud I am of him. Everything sets him off, all he ever does is complain and yell now. We have been arguing more than ever this past week. It's hard for me to except his behavior just because he is trying to stop smoking. I have to admit, he does smoke marijuana sometimes to help the anxiety and irritability...is that gonna help him quit this smoking habit? I want to be there for him as much as possible, but I'm going through alot myself...I'm almost four months pregnant and am starting to feel like he doesn't even care anymore. This will be our fourth child and he has always been a great father and husband, but he's even taking it out on our kids. February 23, 2009 will be our one year wedding anniversary and I do want us to make that. lol Is there any suggestions from anyone else to help me out on this one? Possibly a female who has been going through the same thing?

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Carrissa - December 21, 2008, 8:33 am

Hey Devon! Its Been 22 days for me and no I am not pleasant, I am nasty...I am okay on my own but if there is any outside stress or too many people around then I am angry and intolerant. I smoked for 17 years and quitting is not easy. But I have a job where I am not around many people and I don't have kids,, But I have been a little grumpy to my dog,,poor girl.I am not sure when the grumpiness will end but I hope soon. When it gets too bad I throw in the towel and go have a nap even if a million things that need to get done,,I have found that when I rest I calm down. I realize with the money being tight you may not think of alternative therapies -but all my friends that had laser treatment said it worked. Endorphins are stimulated in your system and you aren't grumpy at all. Most good laser treatments offer it twice for the price of one,,one being a follow up to the other,, like a backup. Good Luck -I know it sux :)

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Terri - December 21, 2008, 7:00 pm

Well, it's been two days. Not so bad yet. I quit cold turkey in 2003 for almost a year. Stressful events caused me to start smoking again. However, I just quit cold turkey again two days ago. I have a family history of heart disease, mitral valve prolapse, high cholesterol and mediocre blood pressure. Couldn't ask for better reasons to quit! Not looking forward to the weight gain. (Last time I gained 20 lbs, but lost it on Weight Watchers.) However, the weight gain is much better smoking! I think it is awesome that so many people have commented on their experiences. I plan to continue my comments. I wish you all the best! Let's beat this!!!!

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Bill - December 25, 2008, 5:32 pm

day 4 with out a smoke and at times its unbearable.i took a zyban this morning and have no idea if its working or not. today is Christmas and the kids are loud and crazy.depression and anxiety are present.does anyone think a .25 xanex would help. Happy Holidays to all.

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Amber - December 25, 2008, 10:20 pm

So today is day 10 for me and it's not that easy. I went to my mothers house for Christmas and quit before i came. I changed my location, people i was around and habits so it will be a little easier to quit. I have tried to quit before while at home and work, but all my habits were the same; i got up a the same time, coffee, shower, drive, lunch....everything was the same for me, so to pull out one habit was hard. I didn't make it a half of day on the day i tried to quit before. So i thought now would be a great time when i didnt have the same habits. Its much easier to change everything like it did to quit because you dont think about it as much when you are in a different place, seeing different people, and different location. The only real time i think about smoking is, "wow, i have not smoked all day", the only problem is, is that i start thinking about that, and i get to wanting one. So i chew gum and go find a family member to talk to or something. 2 days ago i woke up with a sore throat, i hardly sleep at night, but i get sleepy. It's hard, but im happy. My only fear is that i will start when i get back to my home. I will do my best, and i have support when i get back, I made it this far,.....why turn back now!

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Bonnie - December 28, 2008, 10:11 am

I had surgery done on the 23rd of this month. I smoked one and a half ciggs that morning. Since then been down with pain pills and the like, so I think that's made it a little easier. My husband is an avid non smoker, thinks it's the worst thing in the world you could do. I did get out of the house the other night for a bit and thought I would try to smoke, took about 3 drags and put it out, made me sick, I'm sure from all the other meds I'm on and all the pain I'm in had something to do with it. So technically to me I've gone about 5 days without one, reading all your stories help, terrible headaches and coughing up nasty stuff but I figured I was just doing that cuz they put a tube down my throat. Even though the man is so against smoking, not been a very big help, bitches about me bitchin etc... I actually thought alot of what I had was due to surgery symptoms, now I'm pretty sure it's my withdrawls. No sleep, nausea, basically everything someone has written here. My mom is a terrible smoker, and got in her car the other night and almost got sick from the smell, so that could be a good sign. I never smoke at home, well maybe sneak one or two on the weekends when I'm away, but my biggest concern is when I go back to work. I'm by myself all day basically and do nothing but smoke. PLus I just lost about 60 pounds over the last year and the last thing I want to do is put it back on, I know that sounds selfish but I don't ever want to be fat again, and at 5'3 60 pounds is alot of extra weight. My doctor did give me a script for Chantix but I'm afraid to take it plus it's so expensive. I'm thinking Monday if I don't go into work I may go in and try to get put on some wellbutrin. At least then I could possibly kill 2 birds with one stone, depression included. Haven't had any of the mouth and tongue problems yet but I'm sure they are coming. It was nice to hear your stories and see I'm not alone. In some ways I've wanted to quit but the surgery just kinda forced it on me being at home for all this time and not being able to smoke. The craving for one is really getting out of control. I know my husband means well but it's hard also since he has never smoked in his entire life and basically doesn't understand how hard it is to stop, so no sympathy vote from him. Can't exercise too much for the next couple of weeks, but I read somewhere to either lay down or take a warm shower, so I may just become the cleanest person on the planet soon. SOme of this may not make sense but it's just nice to get it out. Nobody is here right now so it's quite and peaceful. My fuse with the kids and him is about at it's limit and it's not their fault. But a 13 yr old, 5 yr old and a 31 yr old can kinda be overwhelming to this 28 yr old girl who just can't take much more!

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Elaine - December 29, 2008, 5:00 am

I must respond to NOELLEN regarding depression. I quit on December 1, 2008 and was fine up until a day or so before Christmas and then started getting depressed. I did already feel tired, but the depression really kicked in around the holidays and I have been having many crying spells. I would like to know if anyone can tell me how long this withdrawal symptom will last. I have been told that it could go on for six months. Thank You. Any help will be greatly appreciated.

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Elaine - December 29, 2008, 5:03 am

I just posted a message and I also wanted to say that my blood pressure is high. Any information on that? Thanks Again!

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Elaine - December 29, 2008, 5:53 am

I do not know how my message got posted several times, may be deep down inside I need an answer very quickly, unfortunately I do not see one yet. PATIENCE!!! Please help me!!!

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Elaine - December 29, 2008, 6:08 am

Please help me! I do not see any new replies.

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Carrissa - December 29, 2008, 8:19 am

(can someone please reduce the repeats for Elaine,,,thanx) Hey Elaine! Well Merry F'n Christmas! Ya that SUCKED! I never cried so much...I never nicked out so much. SO ANGRY<<SO SAD!!!I would have killed my grandma for a smoke - if it weren't for the fact that I never want to go through this withdrawal again. EVER. I quit Nov.30/08 so I know how everyone was doing for the holidays,, If you all got through it then That is GREAT! I mean if you can get through the holidays than you can get thru anything without a smoke,,right? Good for all of you! Congrats. Wow it's tough! I smoked more than a pack a day for a long time,,When do the nic fits end???? Everyone says they go away but really I am dyin here,,onward and forward....

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Alex - January 3, 2009, 6:55 pm

I was a heroin user for 5 years. This past summer I went through detox for my heroin/morphine withdrawals. It's been 6 months clean for me. Now I have to quit smoking. I've been smoking for 15 years but over the past 5 years I smoked 3 packs a day.
There is nothing in this world comparable to heroin withdrawals. Nothing. When I detoxed in the rehab center I thought I was physically going to die. Sweating, puking, diarrhea, couldn't think straight. It was hell on earth.
So...all in all I gotta admit that the withdrawals from cig smoking is pretty tame in comparison. Sure, I have urges, but its nothing compared to the urges, cravings, or physical hardships I went through with heroin. I was expecting this top be a lot worse. Good luck to those who are struggling and always realize that there's always someone out there who has it worse.

This too shall pass.

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Alex - January 3, 2009, 7:02 pm

Oh..and it's been 4 days for me w/o smokes.

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JACKIE - January 6, 2009, 7:54 pm

MAN I HAVENT SMOKED A CIGG IN 3 DAYS I STOPPED COLD TURKEY AND BEEN SMOKING 8 YRS ITS BEEN DIFFICULT FOR ME ESPECIALLY MORE SO CUZ OF STRESS I CANT SLEEP I WAKE UP EVERY FEW HRS WEN I TRY TO SLEEP IT WILL TAKE ME AN HR EVERYTHIN MAKES ME UNCOMFORTABLE I ALMOST BROKE BUT I BEEN MAINTAININ I HOPE IT WORKS OUT

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Erick - January 15, 2009, 7:59 pm

I am going on my 3rd day but I am having diffficulties. I am also getting over pneumonia while trying to stop smoking. I am experiencing tightness in chest, almost feel like I am suffocating, sweating, and dizziness. Is this anything others may have experienced? Starting to freak me out.

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kim - January 15, 2009, 8:12 pm

Erick,
If you are having Chest pains please go to the ER.
For some reason, I don't know why, but 3's are the worse, they were for me,..3rd day, 3rd week and even the 3rd month. But it does get better. I was feeling all weirded out too threw my quit, went to the doctor and got an OKAY. So in my case it is just the crap coming out of my body and the Nicodemon trying to get me to come back to smoking. Again if you are really having Chest pains, get to a Doctor to make sure everything is okay. And then get back to fighting this Nicodemon.
Kim has not had a Cig in Four months, two weeks, 22 hours, 11 minutes and 38 seconds. 4107 cigarettes not smoked, saving $811.52. Life saved: 2 weeks, 6 hours, 15 minutes. So forgive the moodswings.
Kim

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Bryan - January 16, 2009, 8:57 am

Me 55, I started smoking at 25, YES I was an Idiot, problem being I enjoyed smoking those cigarettes for all those years that I smoked.. Ring any bells????

Then 15 weeks ago I decided enough is enough, come to think about it when I started I promised myself I would STOP
one day. God knows how many Cigs I must have smoked in that time, LOTS and I mean lots.
Like so many I had no idea about these withdrawal symptoms, as I type I feel ghastly, chest hurts, mouth is sore
I have suffered mouth ulcers for the past 5 weeks not the same one, when one disappears another comes to
taunt me. Press anywhere on my body and it feels if I am pressing on some bruise.

I feel fatigued, I have not had a decent nights sleep for weeks, my thinking pattern is bizarre, I worry about
this, I worry about that, in fact I worry about things I would not have cared about 15 weeks ago.

I feel completely different, I was once Mr Confident, now I feel inadequate.

I have NOT suffered any craving for another cigarette, in fact I almost feel cheated for not doing so,
I assumed I would, I assumed I would be pulling my hair out fighting off such cravings, but I simply
do not want one, YES I still have a head of Hair :-))

Do I feel irritable? Yes I do, have I put on weight? Yes I have, but not alarmingly, can I breath in
deeply ? YES I Can, but I could when I was smoking but without feeling ‘TIGHT CHESTED’

Is this it? I sincerely hope not, I read what I am going through is WORTH it,
someone told me to think of my LUNGS as a carpet, a carpet that’s not be cleaned,
for years, just think of all the GUNK in it, ‘he said’ well your body is cleaning it for
you now, the COST you are paying for such neglect and foolishness is BLOODY
UNCOMFORTABLE’ I would not disagree.

I Don’t feel sexy anymore either, although tell that to ‘you know who’ hahaha
and I am reminiscent of being a Teenager again if you catch my meaning.

So here we are having been a GOOD BOY and NOT having had another fag
and I feel like CRAP, its been three months for me, I just hope the feeling of
‘well being’ returns soon.

Good luck to any fellow sufferers, its certainly not pleasant is it??

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Rachel - January 16, 2009, 2:50 pm

This is my 13th day after quitting smoking for over 15 years, over a pack a day. I have gotten over feeling sick and the cravings...still feel like complete crap though. I almost feel like I am losing my mind...completely depressed, snappin on everyone, just so mean. I too wish I had a guarantee this will go away or I will start smoking again now and stop suffering. Any advice? I am hurtin.

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kim - January 16, 2009, 2:58 pm

Rachel,
Kick, scream, cry, sleep, or Yell, do what ever you have to do, JUST don't smoke.
What you are going threw is normal. And it will get better, not great for I am at 4 months and I still have some days where I feel like Crap, but not as bad as the first month of quiting and Better than the 3 month. So it really does get better but it will just take time. I cried alot, and slept alot and even yelled a few times, I even threw a bunch of stuff. It really does get better. Just tell your mind you are a non-smoker now, and have to handle things that come along in different ways now.

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Sheila - January 16, 2009, 4:27 pm

It has been 81 days today for me. I have been a smoker over 3/4 of my entire life. I smoked for 30 years. I have come to realize that this is my addiction and I am taking complete ownership of it. Everytime I crave, I deep breathe and enjoy the fact of not picking one up and feeling that crave disappear. For me the withdrawals were very hard for the first two to three weeks. The insomnia was horrible. I could not think about anything else and could not focus at work. I even had night sweats a couple of times, but it does get better. Hang in there everyone. Now that we know what to expect from the next craving, we can deal with it easier.

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Perry - January 21, 2009, 3:55 pm

I'm 24 and start smoking at about 18. This is my day 2 of not smoking. I'm using the patch and it seems to be helping. Yesterday was OK because I didn't have to be at work but today I have to be at work--back to stress and old habits. It's really helps for me to be able to write about it and read all of your comments and see we are all going through the same thing. So thank you. Best of luck to us all.

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Carrissa - January 22, 2009, 2:06 pm

Hello Everyone! Congrats to those who have stayed quit! :) 7 weeks two days for me!! Yaya,,,woo hoo! I feel a little better,, finally the cravings only last minutes now,,not days of waves and waves. I am less irriatable <(sp) But I reduced alot of stress, which means I am un-employed for now. Yes Bryan I know what you mean about being less confident...and scatterbrained. I really don't feel like myself...I guess it comes with not having the nicodemon (That's Kim's word:)) on my back any more. I am now focusing on the weight I gained (16 pounds!) But the hunger cravings that replaced the smoking have abated. Thank God! I can also breath much better but that is just recent. Still a little out a sorts. Anyways Here's to another 7 weeks and the rest of my life as a non-smoker! Take care all--GOOD LUCK!!

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john - January 23, 2009, 8:13 pm

its been two weeks now after smoking cigs for many years. obviously i coughed up alot of crap but it doesnt stop. theres a nasty taste i cant get out of my mouth and i have so much blood in my mucus all the time. i dont even crave a cigarette but i feel like i was more comfortable when i was killing myself. i guess ill just become an alcoholic now to help myself sleep the night thru and take a deep breathe off a whip cream can. good luck with your addictions people.just remember "quitting smoking is easy, ive done it hundreds of times"

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Kim - January 24, 2009, 7:33 am

Hi everyone,
I been reading and I have felt your Pains. Smoking is NOT the easiest thing to give up, and YOU are going to have to Fight this NICODEMON with everything YOU have. Believe me when I say you CAN do this. If you are anything like me, I don't like the word (CAN'T). I am 44 years old now, I did not like it when my parents told me I could not do something,I sure will not stand for A Tube of Leaves or the Tobacco Companies tell me I can't Quit.
As a Smoker for (what seems like a billion Years) started since I was 17)now at 44 I own this Quit. This quit is MINE and only mine. I understand that I have did some damage to my Body But I to get scared and things start going threw my head. But when you feel like something is not right going on in YOUR quit, let the doctor think your Crazy and Check you out, you may need to be on Zyban or Wellbut, It is okay at least you know it is in your Head and you have to Focus more in that area.
When I went to the ER for Chest pains I thought it was IT for me, turn out to be Acid Reflux, did I feel Stupid, YEAH! But I don't have chest pains anymore.
If you are coughing up crap, yes that is normal, BLOOD not so much. Get it check out and get back to us and Back in this FIGHT of Quiting.
In a way John is right, Quiting smoking is easy, CAN you STAY QUIT is the Answer? My brother after 2 year of his Last cig with Chantix just started smoking again, had a friend after 5 years do the same. As humans we forget this Hell we are going threw to Quit after so long and find ourselfs right back to killing ourself, hating ourselfs, and not caring we are leaving people who depend on our Smiles, our laughter OUR Families and Friends.
When you are sitting here thinking about that CIG, that TUBE of Leaves, think about Cancer, and is this the Cig that is going to cause your Bladder cancer down the road, your Lung Cancer, or even your Breast Cancer.
YOU CAN DO THIS!! Don't let them tell you "No you can't" and let them take your money away from you or your Family.
=Kim has not had a Cig in Four months, three weeks, two days, 9 hours, 32 minutes and 49 seconds. 4361 cigarettes not smoked, saving $861.73. Life saved: 2 weeks, 1 day, 3 hours, 25 minutes. So forgive the moodswings.

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Spencer - January 24, 2009, 4:06 pm

It's been about six days for me now after about 5 years of smoking. I wake up constantly at night, cant concentrate on my studies, am completely unmotivated to even try, and i get angry a lot. The angry mood swings and a bit of depression worry me. Is this a result of quitting?

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Renata - January 24, 2009, 6:19 pm

I quit smoking friday (haha it's Saturday) . I have never made it past 24 hours. I have smoked since I was 15, I am 28 now. I smoked through pregnancies when I really should have quit.. I smoked in -30 temperatures because I needed my *fix* or break from kids. I feel like smoking was defining who I was... when you're young it makles you look "cool".. as you get older it makes you stink, lol. My husband is a non smoker so that helps.. but he really has no idea how hard or horrible this is... I am alone with 2 toddlers going through withdrawl (thank god for wellbutrin or I would be psyco!!) They had broken a glass a few hours ago and I seriously broke down crying and yelling.. hard to admit but there it is.. this is so hard, but I feel so determined!.... I have also had many *moments. But I have been repeating out loud that I will never smoke again! It's working.. the 2 cigs in my purse are still sitting there.. even in the most tempting moments, I haven't even touched them.. maybe just scared to...

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Chez - February 5, 2009, 1:06 pm

I'm on day 18 as 'QUIT'. I smoked 20 a day for 20 years. This is my 5th attempt in 4 years at giving up, & is much easier than the previous 4 times. I'm using an inhalator & lozenges, which makes it easier. I'm down to 3 lozenges a day & 1 inhalator capsule every 2/3 days. I lost my dad to lung cancer in late 2005 which totally devastated me. I decided then, after watching him deteriorate to nothing within 6 months, that I'd never put my 3 kids through the same thing. I smoked through all 3 pregnancies as I found giving up impossible. What a hypocrite, I tell myself! I am not only quitting for that reason, but because smoking had become just a habit. I didn't enjoy cigs anymore - they made me feel sick, but I still had to have them! At 35 my chest was so tight & I was in agony every time I walked. This time my partner came to the doctor with me so we could quit together. Even though I'm getting there slowly he's still smoking, but outside, & makes me want to throw up when he comes back into the house. Did I really stink that much? I've got a really sore mouth & tongue at the moment, my nose is running for England, I have terrible wind, nose bleeds & headaches. I haven't had any sleep deprivation but I'm ready for my bed by early evening. I have to admit that I sound like one of the lucky ones on here. After my previous attempts, can I wish all of us lots of luck? I'm going to post on here in future so I can record my downfalls too, as I'm sure there will be lots of them.

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nolongerwheezing! - February 8, 2009, 2:50 am

Hi to everyone
Have been reading your stories and really feel for you.. I stopped smoking on 8th December 2008. I smoked for 28 years from age 15 to 43. I got sick of always being scared that something awful was going to happen to me, feeling guilty smoking around my kids, and generally feeling more and more anti social.

I've been using the patches,now on 10mg, also used the lozenges and chewing gums but stopped those a week ago as i didnt want to become addicted to them!

My tongue is really sore, have ulcers and a very nasty taste in my mouth.. and constipation and wind that is becoming embarrassing :0/

However,I'm looking to the future and feeling positive.. I hated being a slave to cigarettes.. I've watched my mum be totally taken over by smoking (she started at 13 and is now 61)

I wish all of you the very best in your attempts to stop. I guess it really does come down to wanting what's best for us and knowing that our life and quality of life is IMPORTANT.

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Dee - February 8, 2009, 2:43 pm

First off good luck to everyone who has quit,
i have been smoking for about 4 months, i know that isnt that long but i decided to quit.
$1 added to cig tax, lame, juut another reason to quit. Im on my 5 day of no smokes. The first 2 days i couldnt stop coughing, 3 day was fine, 4 night was the worst, didnt sleep all night coughing up green slime. Today i feel good. I have no cravings for a cigarette but i want one, if that makes sense.
I have been through withdrawals before, anti depressants, it thought i was going to die from that zoloft.
I also know heroin users and there withdrawals are always difficult. good luck to everyone.

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Bryan - February 9, 2009, 12:38 pm

Yes its me again, Bryan, (last messaged January 16th, 2009) I thought I would give a progress report.

Well its 4 months now for me since I had a cig, so how do I feel now? Well sorry to have to say this but I still feel like CRAP.

I have not been tempted to have another Cig, I don’t want one, its been like that since the day I stopped,
However the inside of my mouth is still sore, not all the time, but then mouth ulcers come and go.

My sleep pattern? slightly improved, but still not as good as it was when I was smoking, I also keep
having ‘flashbacks’ by that I mean I am re-living moments of my life like some video in my mind.
some pleasant moments, some not, like a nightmare really.
Weird eh??

I Still do not feel fit, my fault really, I feel too fatigued to do anything, yes easy to make such excuses
but I cannot motivate myself, well you have to be in the mood don’t you :-))

So how long before I feel like Superman again??? I really have no idea, I just keep clinging
to the thought that one day I will feel much better for not smoking those ‘bloody’ fags.

OH well lets see how all is in another 4 months time.

Pity there is not a 1001 cleaner for the lungs, OLDER Brits might understand that. :-))

Good luck fellow sufferers, I am thinking of you all, and those to come.

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john - February 9, 2009, 1:23 pm

I quit smoking about three weeks ago. Ever since i have felt extremely fatigued, light headed, sometimes dizzy and getting panic attacks because of the mentioned symptoms. Also just started getting intense migraines. i feel like i have a giant rock sitting in between my chest and my stomach feel so empty because i used to use cigarettes to cure my raging appetite while at work. Does anyone else have these symptoms. Anything you recommend? I've been taking xanax to cure my nerves but the uneasiness in the stomach and chest is still there

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April - February 9, 2009, 2:38 pm

Hello to everyone
First I want to say congrats and good luck to everyone. We are a tough bunch to be doing this! All the ex smokers I've talked to say it's the hardest thing they've ever done. I can truly believe it.
I am just past five months at quitting cold turkey after 22 years. I still have symptoms like wanting a cigarette, anxiety, heart racing, etc. I want to let you know it has gotten better though. I read on another site that the symptoms start to subside around six months and be over around a year. God willing!
Wanted to share something funny with all of you. I heard on the radio the other day the song "I Will Survive." Listening to the words I realized it could be an anthem for quitting smoking.
Hang in there guys. I'll keep you all in my prayers.

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Melissa - February 17, 2009, 6:26 am

A heavy smoker since I hit high school age 13 smoking a packet of 50's a day even more for 4 years. I'm now 18 and haven't smoked for a week or so I have quit smoking without the use of patches or gum. I got scared out of smoking after a trip to the hospitl. Since quitting I've suffered servere depression, numbness of the face, light headed, soreness of the chest, breathing difficulties, axiety, short tempered, loss of sleep and fatiuge severe shakiness and bad nightmares when I do sleep. Its driving me insane! I don't wanna smoke but I don't exactly like losing it with friends and family, haven't been happy since I stopped it really hard for me can someone help me please.

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kira - February 18, 2009, 12:51 am

Quit smoking yesterday around 5 pm. Today has been dreadful, I'm extremely tired, could barely keep my eyes open at work all day. I've already chewed 2 packs of gum and drank 5 16 oz bottles of water. After work I plan on working out for the first time in a few months, hopefully this will get me through the withdraws. This will be my 3rd time quitting, I have to make it this time around.

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Carrissa - February 23, 2009, 1:39 pm

Hey Everyone! Well 11 weeks since that first horrible week of quitting!! Hardest thing I ever did was that first month of quitting,,,and I survived! and I am still smoke free!!Slowly Life is getting back to normal,, The key is to distract yourself into new ways of thinking and new activities.. The hardest part is being around other smokers who knew you smoked - lot's of things (traps) there: like they will offer you smokes or act strange around you. After all you have defected and that makes smokers uneasy. Mostly to me the smokers look enslaved (and I am free). To all you going through your first week,, HOLD ON!! This is a great sight for people honestly telling you about their withdrawal - it helps to have someone to relate too. You can get through this,, it will get better. I used to smoke every moment of the day and it's almost 3 months now without, So you all can do it!! GOOD LUCK!!

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Bryan - February 23, 2009, 2:05 pm

Hi

Still not had a Cigarette, still have not had the urge to smoke one and thats after 30 years 40/50/60
a day sometimes.

If I am with anyone smoking it does not bother me, those that say 'you have to want to pack
up' I agree with, feel that way and actually its fairly easy, well thats my experience.

But the detox, My God a nightmare as far as I am concerned, does anyone else have a sore tongue
that feels numb as well? My sleep patterns although better now are still not my normal sleep patterns,
Anxiety attacks are not so strong, One minute I feel raring to go, the next I feel like a could sleep all day.
I coud go on, won't bore you.

Yes I agree with Carrissa distracting oneself helps, but October was a long time ago and I have to
say I felt physically and mentally better when I was smoking.

I am still not going to have a Cigarette I simply do not want one, now that I am out of the habit
I do not even think about cigarettes.

I am saying to myself ' listen idiot' YOU smoked for a long time and its going to take a long time
before you feel as others have said you will feel, 'better' Hope so, My God I hope so.

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Melissa - February 23, 2009, 6:44 pm

I think its only been 3 weeks now but its killing me not having a smoke, in the last 2 weeks I've had 2 hours sleep. How the hell is that normal! I want a smoke more then ever please help me!

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April - February 24, 2009, 10:11 am

Hi everyone.

In a couple of weeks it will be six months for me to have quit cold turkey. I have had the full range of severe symptoms. Some go away for awhile with massive relief on my part only to be replaced by something else. Currently I feel stressed all the time and I keep waking up early unable to go back to sleep. I haven't been one of those who gained weight but actually lost weight. This from a woman who was on a diet it seems like forever.

I am going to the doctor for a checkup in a couple of weeks. I decided a few months ago I would try this on my own but if I still had symptoms when I went to the doctor I would ask for some medication. I feel better than I did a few months ago but I am ready to ask for help. Does anyone on here have any experience with medicines or advice they can give me? I am very anxious thinking about it. Of course I don't think there is anything I haven't been anxious about since I quit smoking!

Good luck everyone. I know this is awful but it really does get better a little every day. I heard somewhere to keep a journal (I didn't) so you could see how far you've progressed. More than anything I'd love to hear from someone who has quit and they can tell me they went back to their normal self after a time.

Lastly I want to say this site has been a Godsend for me. Like most of you I had no idea the symptoms. Thanks for sharing your experiences. God bless you all and good luck.

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Melissa - February 24, 2009, 1:58 pm

I know I wrote yesterday but I want to ask some questions.

Why has it taken three weeks to throw up? Is that caused from quitting smoking? Why aren't I eating as much now? I hardly ever eat now and I don't know if that's through smoking. I need to know. You said it gets better but i honestly think its getting worse! I'm just so tired and every night I'll be lucky to get half hour sleep! Please I need your help because I seriously don't know what to do and another thing since I gave up smoking I've been thinking if... doing myself in.... PLEASE! I NEED YOUR HELP!

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Maggie - February 24, 2009, 4:13 pm

Melissa,

I just read your post. It sounds like you need to make an appointment with a doctor right away to talk to them about your symptoms. A lot of people who quit coordinate their quit with their doctor so you have nothing to be ashamed of. Quitting smoking is very difficult physically and psychologically because it is an addiction. Everybody has a different severity of symptoms with different things so your symptoms will not be the same as someone else. The thing to do is call a doctor right now or call a crisis hotline to talk to someone right away. The answers you need will come from a doctor. Call right now.

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Melissa - February 24, 2009, 5:08 pm

If I go to the doctors they'll give me tablets and patches and gum and other things. I've figured a way that'll help me out with this whole symptom thing. Everyone, be strong. Its hard, believe me I know its hard but I also believe you can get through this. Have a nice day.

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cheryl - February 25, 2009, 12:22 pm

59yr old old female-smoked numerous years-pack n 1/2 day. quit cold-turkey feb.16, 2009. nobody told me how nicotine affected my entire life. i have headaches all day everyday, cannot sleep but a few hours, sweats from head to toe as soon as i open my eyes, anxiety, irritable. went to er cause i thought my body was falling apart and took all tests, nothing negative showed up. given wellbutrin and another form of zanax medicines. have not taken them. i know its only been 10 days but i feel terrible and want to know from others does the appetite return and does the headaches go away and when? if i could get rid of these headaches i might be able to make this work even thought the cravings for cigs are there.i have another appt with a doctor and after i explain all my symptoms to them i feel they may want to commit me. are these what other people are experiencing? even though it is not as bad as it was it is still bad for me. i am not the same woman i was because of the nicotine that i have in my body and the side effects that it has given. Can someone relieve my mind especially since these headaches are controlling my every move. Thanks and everyone hang in there as Im trying to do!!!

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Melissa - February 26, 2009, 8:23 am

It only been 3 weeks and the sore throat part has attacked me! Can anyone tell me when this goes away and how I can sooth my throat? Cause it doesn't help when I'm in training and I'm in the middle of talking to the trainer and my throat tightens causing me to clear my throat several times before speaking again.. AHH! Its ridiculous! And so are these mood swings! When does it all end? I hate the smell of cigarettes blown in my face now so that doesn't help since eveyone smokes around me. I also have headaches all the time. When do they pack up and leave? I feel tired all the time even when I get a couple hours sleep which I got before writting this comment. Oh great I'm going out of my mind here, I'd scream if my throat let me. Is this going to get better anythime soon cause I had different ideas about the whole giving up thing. If someone who has started feeling a lot better from non smoking could write back and say how long ago they gave up, that would be great. Thanks.

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Viktor - February 26, 2009, 4:15 pm

I finally decided to quit smoking after 6 years for Lent. I realized if i left it for lent i would feel very guilty to have a cigarette. Its been two days and i feel like hell, my chest hurts, Ive been dizzy, some headaches, and its hard to me concentrate. Ill tell you right now i will never have a cigarette ever again, i cant believe i did this to myself!!! I feel like I'm going crazy from withdrawals. I just want to be normal and healthy and start to take care of myself and be happy. I don't want to depend on a cig to make me feel better or feel like it makes my stress go away. PEOPLE wake up and start taking care of yourselves be proud on the decision we made and lets stick to it and overcome this and be healthy!! I WISH YOU ALL THE BEST AND EVERY TIME YOU WANT A CIG. JUST REMEMBER YOUR STARTING ALLLLL OVER AGAIN!!!!

I pack usually lasted me two days or sometimes one and ive smoked for about 5-6 years... when will my withdrawals go away??????

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Bryan - February 26, 2009, 11:13 pm

ODD isn't it how comfort can be derided from others who are suffering.

The feeling, 'perhaps' reassurance that you are NOT the only one kicks in.

You read a certain sentence and all of a sudden you can completely relate to it.
I have to say I personally have not had headaches, again odd, I used to have
awful headaches.

So many of us want to know HOW LONG is this going to take before you
feel normal again? I guess all depends on the individual, its been
nearly six months for me and I am still not right.
But YES of course I would dearly love to know as well.

I still feel light headed, just as if I were wondering around in some
haze, I wake up and still have a foul taste in my mouth reminiscent
of stale ciggies, a sort of numbness which can taste salty making
my mouth feel dry. plus the occasional Mouth ulcer that stings like hell.

My concentration is still shot, I can quickly become irritable, my logic
can change in an instant. If I get a decent nights sleep, ' rare'
I just might feel raring to go, but the dryness in my mouth a strong
hint that my detox is still continuing. then tiredness sets in, the type
where I can hardly keep my eyes open.

Even my eyesight appears to have changed, now I can read this monitor
screen without glasses.

I can relate to those that think about death, yes morbid thoughts enter my mind
continually, in fact anything horrible and my mind appears to revel in it,
can't say anything to anyone of course making the feeling of isolation even
greater. anyone else relate to that?

So where does that leave me? where does that leave you? we have to live
with it I am afraid but in the knowledge that YES it will get better 'eventually'

Others have conquered it, millions of them, one day, yes one day I will, you as well

Smoking withdrawal symptoms has to be one of the Worlds best kept secrets.
anyone else think that?

Just woke up, typed this with a dry mouth, the day I long for is not going to be
today. :-((

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Melissa - February 27, 2009, 1:51 am

I'm feeling a lot better now my headaches are fading and its only like someone is pushing lighlty on the top of my head. My anxiety is going slowly. My moods are calmer and so is the pain in my chest, throat is still dry and sore. A lot of crap is coming up which is good cause I know my body is cleaning itself out. Still tired all the time, appetite is coming back. Achie body still there but going. Going to get as much sleep as possible on sunday so I can return to school on monday after the doctors. Things are getting way better and I have it stays that way cause I want to be healthy again! Take care everyone! X

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M. - February 28, 2009, 7:26 am

I've also quit cigarettes for Lent.. it's going to be officially the fifth day in half an hour... I have a sore throat (feels like strep, ', ', ', ', ', NULL, NULL, 1, 1), my ears are popping, I'm tired, I feel shaky.. and I just sort of want to not function until these symptoms go away! I'm coughing up a lot of crap, which is scary to look at, lol. Does anyone know how long it takes for the sore throat to go away?

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April - February 28, 2009, 12:45 pm

Hi fellow sufferers,

I didn't quit for Lent. I quit so my husband and I could try to have a baby. They say to tell yourself all the positive things about quitting. Sometimes it helps, sometimes not so much.

All of you who have just started through the withdrawals have reminded me of the horrible physical symptoms I went through. I am so grateful that is behind me. I had terrible smokers flu after I quit. Ears popping, sore throat, headache, sinus congestion, vomitting, diarrhea, joint pain, etc. The one that bothered me the longest was the constant mucus lump in my throat and the mouth sores. I also felt like someone was pressing down on top of my head. It lasted about six weeks for me. Rarely I'm still coughing up some nasty stuff and I have a mouth ulcer going away again, not so painful as before or I've gotten used to it. I heard it's where we've cooked our gums and mouth all these years like smoking a piece of meat. My dentist does a cancer screening with some purple liquid with the dental cleaning and I was cancer free so it's just our bodies healing.

Some suggestions of things that have worked for me. For those with smokers flu, try a nasal wash system. Helps get that mucus out. You'll find info on the internet. Also try muscle relaxation techniques. Tightening and releasing the muscles really helps to relax you and the tension. Also, breathing exercises. Exercise helps but it's got to be strenuous to do any good for me. Some of these things might work for you. The biggest thing that helps me is thinking positive. I remind myself like Bryan that this is the price my body is paying to heal from years of enjoying myself. None of these things really penetrated the detox fog in my brain until after a month.

Mostly what I have left now is anxiety, nervousness, and I think some depression. I'm not sure since I'd never been nervous or anxious about most anything in my life. I'd always been the laid back practical one. Hopefully I will be again. I always feel like I'm looking inside myself instead of out at the world.

Good luck all of you. Melissa, hang in there. I wish I could have been as brave and smart as you and quit when I was 18. All of you sound like you're doing great. God bless!

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Melissa - February 28, 2009, 3:26 pm

Hey eveyone!

I got some great news, its a good thing I quit smoking because I just found out I'm going to be a mummy! I'm only 13 weeks but I'm so proud of myself. I'm not only quitting for my sake but I'm quitting for a little one too. It just makes giving up so much easier! Hang in there everybody!

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Viktor - March 1, 2009, 10:59 pm

Day 5..... i feel a lot better, my headaches are going away, i was kinda dizzy today but feeling better thank God. I was around smokers all day yesterday and didnt even think of lighting one up :-) i feel great now that im not a smoker and i finally dont have to depend on something that shortens my life..... hang in there God bless n ill pray for you guys

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Melissa - March 1, 2009, 11:41 pm

Went to the doctors today and found out my symptoms were all anxiety =( but it was good to have a full on check up (which I haven't had one in years!) so me giving up smoking has nothing to do with my chest pains lights headedness and being short of breath. The sore throat and mouth have also gone so I'm a happy chappy (almost) stay positive everyone you can quit just find some motivation first good luck to all!

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Sheila - March 11, 2009, 8:49 pm

Ive been a 40-50 cig a day smoker for the past 20 years. Im 36 yrs old and have decided to quit. Im working on day 3 now of no cigarettes. The cravings come and go, i found that when i get a craving i go outside and take 6-7 deep breaths and the craving goes away. However i find myself getting more and more wanting to light up and the cravings get stronger towards the evening hours. Is there more uphill before things get better?

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Melissa - March 11, 2009, 11:19 pm

I haven't smoked as long as you have but all I can say is everyone is different. I'm only 18 and I gave up smoking about a month and 2 weeks ago, I feel great. Some days I go completely mental and want a smoke but I just find something else to do screaming helps too and crying I also find music a great help too. My point, find something else to do when you want a smoke and just don't think about the dreadful cigarette. Mel.

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April - March 12, 2009, 7:13 am

Hi guys,

I wanted to post something very fast before I went to work. I was reading on the internet yesterday and found an article. I thought people who are still having withdrawals a few months down the line (like me) might be interested. It really calmed my mind.

www.abc.net.au/rn/talks/8.30/helthrpt/stories/s30646.htm

My doctor gave me a prescription for Zyban on Monday. I haven't taken it yet and haven't decided if I will. The side effects sound scary.

Good luck everyone. God bless.

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viktor - March 12, 2009, 8:46 pm

Day 16

I feel a lot better im so happy im not a smoker now! Another thing that wont make me start smoking is they just raised the price of a pack to almost 8dollars in Michigan!!! Now all my friends that smoked are quitting haha.... But im still having minor headaches, and minor anxiety.... I also found out to keep your body on a balanced diet....vegetables, fruits, vitamins. Also for the people going to anxiety there are vitamins for that too... look online for vitamins B's so go to you local drug store and talk to a pharmacist.. Good Luck and God Bless

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April - March 15, 2009, 6:56 pm

Here is a website I found about quitting smoking and mouth ulcers. Some of you might find some helpful tips there.

http://www.mouthulcers.org/messages.php?thread=249&page=1

I agree it really does make you feel better to know there are people out there in the same situation as yourself.

God bless!

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Carrissa - March 16, 2009, 12:51 pm

It gets better! I swear ! It's been 3 and half months for me! And it really does get better. Hold On! You can beat the the demon! : )

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Melissa - March 16, 2009, 10:21 pm

I don't know why I started smoking in the first place but I'm starting to regret it! I'm not too keen on my new sense of smell with all the bad odours around! Last week I was walking a lot everyday and feeling great. Yesterday and today, however, I went for a 2 minute walk up the road to see a friend and I felt like I had walked 1000 kilometres! Is this all part of the detox? Also, I've had depression since I was 13 (just after I started smoking but not the reason for depression) and my god, for the last 2 weeks I've been laughing my head off! I feel like I'm on happy gas or something, bottom line, still got depression but not all the time now. I just saw someone light up a smoke and blurted out dirty habit lol they laughed though. Its also good to know that my family believes I can give up now, its also a shock to my friends. It been a month and a half no smoking for me and its killer at times but I know, one day, I'm going to pull through!

You can do this as well everyone! (This is coming from a teenager lol)
Have fun.

Mel.

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andrea - March 31, 2009, 6:08 pm

i have not had a cig in 3 days> started smoking when i was 26, im 40 now ( how odd). no major symptons yet , the cravings are just now beginning but i think about my 11 yr old son who just begs me to quit. Tired of coughing and him are my major reasons to quit, that and dying a slow death from no oxygen!I just hope this works! oh and the depression part, I didnt get depressed until I started! hmmm!

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Melissa - April 1, 2009, 1:49 am

God knows how long its been since I gave up. I'd say about two months ago? I'm completely over it now. I suppose everyone is different with their recovery. But if there's one thing I have now after giving up it is no patience! Thank you.

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Lesley - April 5, 2009, 8:01 pm

I am on day three of not smoking one cigarette. I'm 22 and have been smoking for 3 years on and off. I really want to quit for good, but since i'm in college it seems almost impossible with all the stress of school.Lately I have been feeling really dizzy, is this a withdrawal or something else?

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Patty - April 11, 2009, 11:44 am

7 days and no cigs. I had yet another simus infection and decided not to smoke on a day I was real sick. 1 day turned into 7. I had purchased Commit last hear and dug them out of the closet and am using those. I still want to smoke and am afraid I might..help!

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Amy - April 12, 2009, 4:51 pm

3 days now and no cigs.Does everybody go though withdraws and if so when do they start? Because so far i have had no major cravings and i feel GREAT!!!I have smoked a pack maybe more for 24 years.

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Carrissa - April 15, 2009, 11:18 am

Hey All! 4 1/2 MONTHS!!!! I can not believe it. Amy if you have no withdrawal then I am envious,, I don't know how that is possible.... I did say it gets better and it does. But lately I think about cigs,,it was such a part of me to smoke and it was my crutch. I feel kinda down lately - I know I won't smoke but I will be honest today and say I miss it.:-)

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Bryan - April 16, 2009, 8:39 pm

Here I am six months a non smoker, STILL not had a cigarette
and never had any desire to light up since that day I said
goodbye to them. Cravings, what cravings, Is it me or is that just a fallacy?
Fact is I truly wanted to pack the CIGGIES UP.
Bit like walking away without giving a second look back.

However the withdrawal symptoms have been severe,
Mouth Ulcers, had many of those, first three
months were hell with them, now they seem to have ceased.

Lethargic? Yes, very, I still feel like I am walking round in
daze, concentration? yes that's still not right,. starting
to wonder if I will ever get my concentration back?
MMMMmm I wonder.

So here I am all these months later not smoking
but still 'suffering from withdrawal symptoms.

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prince - April 20, 2009, 2:42 pm

its been three days and my chest is irritating or itchy and i lack concentration,do u think whisky/alcohol can help

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Patty - April 21, 2009, 5:52 am

Day 19 and no cigarettes. It seems like longer and the cravings are worse then in the first few days. That may be because I was so sick with a cold when I initialy quit. I am still using commit losenges and they do help. I can also have my precious mary jane as well and not have a cig afterwards.

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Kristen - April 21, 2009, 10:56 pm

I am 20 and have been smoking 5-10 cigs a day for 3 years. It has been 5 days smoke free and I feel like I am about to cough my lungs up! Everytime I lay down I cough so much that I threw up three times two nights ago. And yesterday I felt like I was on cloud nine and I really do not remember much of what happened yesterday. I hope that this will all subside soon though.
I have not had any cravings yet but I am a college student and finals are coming up in two weeks...

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Sue - April 30, 2009, 12:05 pm

lighthead, dizzyness signs of withdraw?

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marianne - April 30, 2009, 8:07 pm

Did anyone experience ringing in the ears after quitting smoking?

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Kristen - May 1, 2009, 1:47 pm

I had ringing in my ears, and still do for that matter. And yea lightheaded and dizzyness are also signs. Its very annoying I know but hang in there!

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Libby - May 3, 2009, 8:38 pm

Everyone. it's quite the journey. With this economy, and losing my job- I just couldn't afford the cigs. So- on top of not actually "wanting" to quit- here I am. 6th. day into not having a cig- waiting for my unemployment check in 2 more days, and thinking how stupid it would be to put myself through this again if I smoke!!

I can't believe all these crazy symptoms. I am actually having trouble typing this because I get so agitated from minute to minute. I want to argue with my husband. I keep thinking if I get busy and do something, I will feel better, but it's like I just can't. Can't do anything. Afraid to start something major because I will just get irritated more -- but then I can't sit around and do nothing forever either!

I was just reading everyone else's stories and I must say- kind of made me laugh- as thought i had to be the only one with all the crazy thoughts.

I guess we just must keep on trying eh?

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Diane - May 3, 2009, 11:03 pm

I haven't had ringing in the ears, but can see where that could happen. With all the stuff I've been getting, I wouldn't put anything in the "can't happen category". Does anyone get a sensation - I call it walkie legs- a funny feeling behind your knees and the same in your arms?

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Crissy - May 6, 2009, 8:51 am

I quit one week and one day ago and it is going well so far!! I am having less urges for fags which I didn't think would ease as quickly as they are! I do however have trouble sleeping, which I didn't realize could be related. I also have a very sore tongue, especially along the sides, it is quite painful and hurts when I move my tongue and also when I talk, and as I teacher I have to do a lot of this! Are there any suggestions for this pain?

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BRyan - May 6, 2009, 9:12 am

Crissy

and all others suffering from a sore mouth and tongue.

TRY DIFFLAM its avialable in Chemists
works for me.

I am in Thailand and its also available here

LOOK IT UP on GOOGLE will tell you much more.

Good Luck.

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Christian Corlett - May 6, 2009, 12:39 pm

Thanks Bryan!
I know the stuff you are on about as I usually use it for a sore throat I just hadn't thought about using it for my tongue! Thank-you I shall be trying this!

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DOLLY - May 6, 2009, 11:33 pm

hI,
I have been a smoker for a few years but the number used to be limited to 4 to 5 a day.I stopped smoking for last 2 months.I am a Diabetic.I have tried quitting smoking a few more times earlier also.But everytime I stop I start having a dull type of chest pain.I thought it was withdrawal symptom but even after 2 months the pain and discomfort in the continues.What is it?Is chest pain one of the withdrawal symptoms?Please help.

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Mar - May 12, 2009, 5:37 am

Hi Bryan,

i can relate to you especially with the morbid thoughts. After 3 days of quitting I have these thoughts of being sick and it made me sick, it is always on my mind and i cant work. are this withdrawal symptoms? I had sweaty sleep, and cant eat heavy breakfast. I feel like puking when taking a bath (after breakfast) but nothing comes out but air. after that i feel better. I got anxiety attacks many times but subsided when time goes by. i was scared of being sick all the time, thinking of illness. I feel comfortable when i read about this. I understand it now. Does my experiences display withdrawal symptoms? because im worried all the time.

I hope we all succeed to quit.

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Bryan - May 15, 2009, 2:18 am

Hello ALL

I wrote this letter to a friend in Spain telling him how I was geting on
with NOT smoking, I think the letter is self evident and explains what happenedin the six months of NOT smoking. Some of you may realte to this, others might not, what I am discovering is that experiences differ.

Comments would be appreciated, Maybe I
am fooling myself as Jerry believes
------------------------------------

I went to see Jerry this morning who believes my smoking is an emotional need more than a physical one.

WRONG, I have no desire to smoke but do know there is danger in me getting used to it again.
We went through the ADDICTIVE nature psychology thing, hahahah I know much about that myself
having lived with Lucy. (alcoholic)

So I shall see a Doctor and ask him about patches, Brain says 'DON'T continue smoking, but knowing what it did to me withdrawal wise I think I can be weaned off by
gradually reducing nicotine intake, I also think that if I were to continue smoking my hand gestures GESTICULATION' would once again be a part of the habit.

Accept for the sore throat I feel 95% better, no more weird thoughts and Flashbacks (video re-runs in the mind) I also feel so much stronger in body, even my eye sight
has improved, all I can say is nicotine and all the other toxins in cigarettes are very powerful.

Having read many other peoples experiences on my smoking withdrawal symptom website, I can relate, everything from mouth ulcers, sore tongues, fatigue ect
no trace of any of that and more now. even then I had no desire to light up again.

Many have said you are back to your old self, Peter, Ian Number two included, even Jerry saw the difference. but he says he has counseled many in his time
and thinks the portion in the back of the brain that controls emotion is tricking you into smoking again.

We have spoken on the phone Barrie, you yourself have noticed a difference, when you were last here I could hardly fill in a form.

I also know that I could drive much longer distances now, last week 'that' would have been impossible.

There is no doubt in my mind, I was virtually crippled in body and in mind last week, problem being my mind was aware of all this,
it was an awful experience, not one I would relish repeating. I think it took six months to arrive at that point with
steadily decreasing as time passed

I simply think my body was so accustomed to having smoking related toxins put into it for so many years that I was completely dependent on on those toxins,
deny the body those and the effects 'for me' were devestating.

Anyway I shall keep you inforned and tell you about any Doctors advice.

Bryan

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Carrissa - May 15, 2009, 11:43 am

Hey all, just to let you know withdrwal is also psychological...right? So of course after you quit you may have a lot of fucked up thinknin, And you may be feeling heavy in your chests because you are may be feeling for the first time what your body has been saying behind the addiction. Just thots...
I am slippin up folks,, I been smokin the ganja , god I love inhaling smoke. Shit now I gotta start all over again. But at least that tabacco demon isn't in the picture yet ,, I may have a fightin chance here....

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kamilly - May 24, 2009, 7:58 pm

ummm. im 16 and i been smoking for almost 3 years. i thought it was cool because all the other kids were smoking . and then now. i cant even go with out for more then 40 mins. i don't even know whats wrong. some days i will only smoke like 4 to 6 . then on other days. i smoke a pack or 2 . its just weird. can you help me?

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Lee - May 28, 2009, 2:03 am

All,

If you are stuggling with quiting and really wish to quit, you must read Alan Carr's book. Honestly, dont bother with substitutes, patches, gum, etc, they are keeping you hooked!

http://www.allencarrseasyway.com/

good luck
Lee

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Carrissa - May 29, 2009, 11:36 am

Kamilly -Lee is right. Find the strength to quit because the way you are thinkin about your habit now only gets worse and worse, and years could go by. Read all what we wrote -theres a lot of coping strategies in these previous notes here. I started smokin cause of the same reasons as you. and it was a long road of hell when I finally tried to quit. Alan Carr's book is a good start. Stay off nico re-placement it only feeds the demon. Good Luck.

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smokeless - June 4, 2009, 7:16 am

I have ringing in the ears, feel like i am some type of derealization, out of it. very difficult to concentrate. it is really weird when talking face to face with people, it almost seems unreal. i have been nicotine free for about 4 days now. i just hope this all goes away or i will have no other option but to go back just to feel normal again and get work done.

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Carrissa - June 6, 2009, 5:56 pm

Dear Smokeless..everyone has a different experience the first few days. You may have trouble feeling normal for several weeks, I am just trying to help you trouble shoot. You must find some way of holding on through this because your whole life may change. Give yourself a chance - don't let the nico demon talk you into giving up to "feel normal" again. Goodluck :)

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smokeless - June 8, 2009, 10:17 am

Thanks. Woke up day 6 and everything is better. That was a pretty crazy 5 days though. Glad I am back to normal, except for just cravings now. I will continue to fight those craves and stay nic free.

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Carrissa - June 8, 2009, 2:17 pm

*You can do it!* for me: WOOHOO! 6 and 1/2 Months free of the insanity that is smoking! Oh ya and the ganja is gone again too..hee hee. Keep on truckin folks! : ) Remeber I smoked three packs a day and here I am now still smoke free! WOOHOOOO!

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Carrissa - June 8, 2009, 2:24 pm

Hey Bryan,,you still in the war here or have you gone back to the enemy???

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Bryan - June 8, 2009, 9:17 pm

Hi Carrissa, Thanks for your concern.

I feel like a naughty boy, Yes back to the enemy, hopefully for a short time.

My Withdrawls symptoms were SEVERE, NO not an excuse, I could hardly
see, TV was blurred, driving my car hazzardous and I had NO energy.
This process was gradual, but for me reached a peak.

I can still remember going to bed one afternoon
thinking this is it, ME gonna die. at the moment in
time? I could not have cared less.

When I awoke I went to buy a pack, GUESS what, I felt like POPEYE on
Spiniach, all of a sudden I was feeling my old self.

Needless to say I am ANNOYED, I still do not want to smoke,
it feels I am Damned if I do , damned if I don't, Not fair is it.

So I have been gathering information about PATCHES.

Some say, NO GOOD, Most say, 'worked for me'
Thing is what strength do you strat on?
30 Milligrams 20 Milligrams 10 Milligrams?

Its my BODY that needs the TOXINS not my head,

Start HIGH work your way down, or start low
and see how I get on?

I feel some damn good again, thats the problem
please do not tell me its all in my mind, I was
in a hell of a physical state as well as mindfully

Nightmares Day mare, no concentration and feeling
as if my internal battery was running out.

AGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

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Carrissa - June 10, 2009, 11:39 am

I hear ya man! I am not the same person, and it was a psychotic experience to quit. But I am an addict and I just switch around habits, so I am getting help to deal with my addictive nature. My life has sucked thoroughly ever since I quit, but the fact that I reallly quit gets me through it. One day I will have a better lifestyle, I will hold on to that for now. Any ways I wanted to tell you about laser treatment -all my friends who had it done say it has worked. I am not kidding. I am in Alberta, Canada so these numbers I give you will be long distance but perhaps you can get info on a center near you. You get zapped twice over a 1 month period. It releases endorphins that keep you going through withdrawal so that you don't feel like s**t. My friends said it was a painless experience to quit, they say you feel good the whole time. A little expensive,,oh well. Sangsters International Laser Therapy 780-915-5128,,or Affinity Laser Therapy 780-452-1917 website: www.affinitylasertherapy.com Also Maybe you are a little soul tired too.?Be well :)

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Maria - June 12, 2009, 1:49 am

Hi I am Maria, smoked for 16 years, and 32 now. Have tried to quit at least five or six times seriously - for weeks/months, and maybe at least 30 times for a day or two. I had started to have enough of it and it was now quite hard to convince myself that the chosen moment was meaningful enough, I didn't have any more respect for my word. Anyway I am now silently determined, I know I can do this and have quit since monday, the 8th of June! Best to all- me

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Joe - June 13, 2009, 6:21 am

Hi, i'm joe and i'm 15, iv smoked about 5 a day for only a couple of months and now early on, i've realised how stupid it is, regardless of that i have a chesty flemmy cough and am short of breath, do you know how long these symptoms last in my case having been smoking for only a short time

all the best

joe

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Carrissa - June 13, 2009, 10:03 am

Just remember to read the previous stuff here because all the withdrawal symptoms are mentioned by all of us. And Joe I am no doctor, which you should go to, but my guess is that : your lungs are still relatively good so they will have an easier time of kicking out the crap. I have yet to get to that stage. Anyways you prolly have that quit smokers cold some get. This will pass for sure. Good Luck!

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Gina - June 16, 2009, 1:26 pm

I am on day 5 of no cigs. Someone come kill me now! I was a heavy smoker for 22 years. This is my 2nd attempt to quit. I was off them last year for 6 mths & then started back. What a dummy! I don't remember the withdrawel symptoms being this bad last time. If I ever start back & have to go thru these symptoms yet again I don't know if I can do it. Zero energy, coughing non-stop, aches all over, all I want to do is veg out & watch TV. I have been taking daily walks. That DOES help. Too bad I can't quit my job & just walk all the time! ha! I could really use some encouragement. I feel so alone. Then I found this site & read others comments. It made me feel better. Thanks gang! Good luck to all of us.

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Gina - June 16, 2009, 1:36 pm

See....I can't even post a message correctly. Sorry. I have no idea how it got posted 3 times. What can I say? Smoking apparently really DOES affect your brain!

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Connor - June 18, 2009, 3:38 pm

I am so happy i found this... im 15 ive smoked for 4 years i took breaks i guess... but the last time i had a cig was saturday 5 days ago and i have been feeling so um... anxious? and depressed sometimes crying for no reason i do believe it is the cigs! thank god i was begining to go crazy!!!!!!!!!!!!! id be happy with ppl but when im alone i just slowly descend into sadness... i had no idea this is what happends... wonder why ive never heard someone say im sure glad i took up smoking! haha

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Carrissa - June 20, 2009, 11:44 am

Yay Gina ! Goodluck ! Just remember that quiting smoking is about seeing the habit for what it is. Thinking you miss it just re-enforces the thought pattern that you want another-- I just learned that. I think us hardcore smokers should seek help, there is more going on besides/ or with the addiction. Maybe,,,? Good luck :) Seriously. Almost 7 months smoke cigerette free for me from 3 packs a day. Connor you should know the biggest influence that will keep you smoking is a sense of belonging to a "group". Because of your age you are high risk for a lifetime of hell. Please try to learn to socialize with out the smokes and you will cope better with this horrible addiction, that's just my guess, just an opinion. Please be well. Keep up the good work. Remember cigerettes are really the gate way drug because your giving yourself permission to self harm. So proud of all the new quitters! I am also once again off the ganja, which after all: is smoking too... No one is ever perfect eh?

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syd - June 23, 2009, 6:57 am

Hi everyone!!I have smoked for about 4 to 4 1/2 years.During these years its been a pack, pack n a half a day. then i lost my job two months ago and its increased to two, two n a half pack a day. Wellllll money has gotten real tight and has come down to food or smokes and right now (not having slept in 3 days) i wish i had starved. Its horrible!!! I am driving my husband crazy even my extremely hiper dog is not coming near me.its not just lack of sleep I was also sick before i actually quit and now i feel like death walkig.i cant stop coughing, getting dizzy, and swerving while driving(i have been pulled over 2 times now). Now that we have some cash i really want a smoke to make me feel right again, but at the same time i know that iam getting healthier. Someone that has been in the same shoes im in could be a big help to me right now so if you have some advice please share it !!!

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Lauren - June 23, 2009, 1:28 pm

Hi everyone! Today is day 3 of no cigs for me. I really dont have any withdrawal symptoms yet. I do however have a loss of appetite..anyone else have this problem? Everytime I think i want a cig I grab a bottle of water and some chewing gum and so far soo good.. Keep up the good work everyone!

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Carrissa - June 24, 2009, 3:14 pm

*Remember to read what we all wrote, there is lots of us that have been where you new quitters are. Those looking for support just need to read the previous entries. If you are a hard core smoker you will not feel right for a while so hold on- k ? It will get easier -everyone is different. As always good luck!

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Kate - July 7, 2009, 5:40 pm

Today is day 2 without a cigarette. I am now 19 years old as of 2 weeks ago. I smoked a pack a day since I was about 15. I grew up in a house where my mom smoked constantly inside, I moved in with my aunt who was a nonsmoker when I was 14. I coughed up so much lung butter and was sick for months, all because of my mom smoking in my house my whole life. a few months later, I found myself picking up the habit and by 15 I was smoking a pack a day. This is the hardest thing Ive ever had to do in my whole life. I'm having crazy dreams. I'm crying over anything. My whole chest hurts. (Is that normal?) My anxietys out of control. But yet at the same time, I feel better that I'm getting over this. But it is so hard. My lung butter has gone from being black to light green again finally. But I'm so scared, everyone on my dads side who has smoked has died by their mid 50's. AND I DONT WANT TO BE LIKE THEM.I feel like a wreck, and I feel like I'm losing it..I quit drinking coffee too, which is also hard as I'll do one thing and I'll be tired and want to sleep and if I don't I just become way over emotional.I'm scared and I just want some one to tell me that every things gonna be alright ):

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carla - July 9, 2009, 9:54 am

hi i am on day 2 of my journey to quit smoking. i decided to first make a decison to fast for spiritual reason and that is how i started m journey. i have been doing pretty good actually. i do get cravings quit ofen but they only last for a few min. it is the freuechy of the cravings that can be hard. i do have the headaches i also have back aches, is that normal as well? i haven't experienced the sore throat or coughing yet. the first night i decided to quite i couldn't sleep it is funny because i had a cigarette that night but when i made the physicology decison to not pick up any more i couldn't sleep. that is funny. that night i had only two hours of sleep. anyway i am excited about this journey. me and my daughter are plan on a walk or a short run. i plan on a complete lifestyle change.

good luck to all on your journey.

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brenda - July 19, 2009, 11:24 am

Hi im brenda i live i a house full of smokers. It has been my 2nd day smoke free.I read all your blogs and now wonder if i well fale that is a fare im having.The cravings are mild but i feel that they really havent kicked in yet so im waiting and scared at the same time.

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Carrissa - July 23, 2009, 11:55 pm

Hey...;-) Still don't smoke, glad to be free of the slavery. Keep on Truckin,,,eh?

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Rick - August 4, 2009, 7:31 pm

Hello. Now almost 4 months smoke free after 36 years of 2+packs a day. The key really is understandinging the physical part lasts only 72 hours. After that, it's all in your head. I never really looked at it that way until I found this website. I ended up getting hooked on sugar free gum for a month or so. Chewed 5 packs a day. Now I chew my tonque a bit and am trying to get that understood. Best part though is that I used to be quite active when I was younger, and have started exercising again. Anyway, I had it in my head that I would never quit and would likely die before I was 55. I now really feel good and have most of the weight I put on burned off. For those just getting started, it will get better and if you put on a few pounds, so what. My nose is now so in tune that I can tell if people in front of me driving in cars are smoking while I am on my bike. Oh yeah, I hardly ever get a headache from a hangover anymore. I always thought it was the liquer. Good luck!

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Carrissa - August 6, 2009, 1:30 pm

Oh Yeah! I forgot to tell you all...Rick is so right.....THE SMELL,, you will not believe how bad it smells until you actually quit. Old Cigarette smoke on people and things is particularily disgusting, new smoke makes you gag. I had no idea until I actually quit how absolutely horrible I had smelled. It took months to get the smell out of all my things! And I was/am considered a very neat and clean person,, now I am shocked if people smoke indoors! THE SMELL!!! As always: Good luck to you new quitters and middle quitters and quit quitters! One day at a time and don' quit quitting! : )

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Trisha - August 11, 2009, 10:19 pm

My boy frind wants to break up with me because he cannot kiss me anymore due to my bad breath

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sharon - August 12, 2009, 9:05 am

its been twelve years and ill never pick up one again. they are gross dirty deadly disgusting expensive ,,serve no purpose and just think of how crummy it feels while quitting compared to how crummy my sister inlaw felt after she found out she had cancer in her lungs from years of smoking. she died soon after that news and suffered to the end. so sad. we have choices to make and hopefully good ones. good luck to anyone trying to quit. get mad at it and you control it, dont let it control you.

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sara - August 16, 2009, 10:10 pm

I just stoped smoking yesterday at 2pm. I am already having awful withdrawls. I just keep falling apart crying and my chest feels awful i did not sleep well last night at all. I am 31 years old and have been smoking since about 16 years old and i think this might be the hardest thing I have ever done. I feel like i want to crawl out of my skin. I have quit several times it was so easy when i was younger now it is just so hard. i never thought it would be this hard. i do appreciate this site and everyone in it.

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prasad - August 18, 2009, 1:23 pm

i quit smoking completely 2 months ago prior to that for a year I used to smoke 2 cigs a day thinking I cut down but of no avail as I would till get withdrawls whenever I tried to quit.I quit smoking oneday cold turkey,felt better after 1 week and went back to have one more cig as I thought I was free,next day I was were I started a week before,Than I quit for 5 days and again went back to another cig felt miserable in my 3rd attempt as it felt long and ever lasting before the withdrawl symptoms would go away.Today Iam free and I would like to say no to just another puff because one puff will bring me back to where I was.It is just not worth it.last month I used to think I wasted so many years of my life smoking and feel depressed to have another cigarette but today the last cig I had feels like a distant past and Iam so happy.

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Sandeep - August 19, 2009, 2:37 am

I have been without smoke for the last four days. Before this I used to smoke around 20 cigs each day.

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Sandeep - August 19, 2009, 11:38 pm

I am on the fifth day, the wthdrawal symptoms are still there

a) Running nose
b) Heaviness in heart and head
c) Lack of concentration
d) Above all a different reality is perceived by me

Hopes this will last

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Sandeep - August 19, 2009, 11:47 pm

Now on the sixth day, suddenly I am realizing that Ive become very sensitive!!!
Yday I had an hot soup and now Im having a sour throat

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Sandeep - August 20, 2009, 12:22 am

One more fascinating reason to be out of cigs,
I am creating new records each day during quiting
And I want to create history day by day

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sara - August 21, 2009, 11:56 pm

It has been 7 days going on 8 i am already feeling much better but still have the nose, throat, and chest stuff. I am starting to sleep better now there for the first 5 days or six I was only getting between 3 to 5 hours of sleep. I am still having cravings like at certain times or certain things I am doing or diffrent moods I get in. I have made it so far to 8. GOOD LUCK EVERYONE!

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jackie - August 23, 2009, 2:56 pm

HELLo, Only quit 15hrs ago and trying like HELL not to smoke. Quit for 8yrs... 10 yrs ago. So I have been smoking again for 10 yrs. 15 cigs a day. When I quit the first time, one puff with a friend while going thru a divorce and BAMM!! Here I am. Do NOT take one puff or here you go again.
HELp keep me focused!!!

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Helga - August 23, 2009, 11:12 pm

Ok, day 2, I quit cold turkey 4 days ago, and it is not at all pleasant, I felt like I was dope sick, then drunk, then light headed, unsure if I was dreaming, did not even know if I had spoken to people, or just thought about it. I thought every mailbox along the road was a deer as I drove by, AND I swore at customer and my fellow employers ALL DAY !!! I should have been locked up! well the day after I was going to put on the patch, because my boss would have fired me, well I got to the poison stick first and smoked 5!! well yesterday I had the patch on and it went well, today I have the patch on, and this will make it day 2 in a row, still thinking about it, but I was able to be in public places and not swear at every little thing, What are they putting in the ciggs besides nicotine to make you sooo sick?? there is noo way it is only nicotine that makes you act this crazy. I want to know, what poison I have bought for these last 30 something years! best of luck to all of you and me, cause you never know, just remember 1 is too many and 1000 never enough !!

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Sandeep - August 23, 2009, 11:45 pm

Today is the 10th day without nicotine.
Yesterday I bought one cig but after 5 minutes of internal battle was able to torn it away. Looking back this seems to be the most important decision I took after a long time!!!!!
Still the withdrawal symptoms are there like
1) Heaviness in head and chest
2) Boils in the mouth
3) Restlessness

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Sandeep - August 25, 2009, 4:36 am

Today is the 11th day without nicotine
Somehow feels much bette today.
Heard somewhere that after 21 days there wont be any more physical cravings!!!

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mscee - August 25, 2009, 9:47 pm

3rd day of quitting. So hard. I have to tell myself out loud that I will not get a cig. This helps..it's a mind thing for me. I quit on my 35 b-day (8/23). I have been smoking since 15 and it has made me look sullen, tired, and older than I am. This the main thing that keeps me motivated day-to-day.

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Monica - August 27, 2009, 9:40 am

I am on Week 8, Day 3 of being tobacco free. I smoked for 20 years and I smoke a pack a day. I am still experiencing withdrawal symptoms - extreme hunger, insomnia, nightmares, muscle spasms and painful cramps in my breasts and legs, night sweats, irritability, anger, depression, and dry mouth and throat. Another symptom I am experiencing is my upper lip feels like it is constantly chapped. However, I will not return to smoking. Since I have quit, I can smell when someone has just had a cigarette and it smells disgusting. I can't believe that I smelled like that for all those years. Not to mention the money that it has saved me. The withdrawal that I am experiencing is well worth the long term advantages of being a nonsmoker.

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nick - August 28, 2009, 8:44 am

today is the third day of quitting smoking, my cravings are short, and getting less frequent. I haven't been coughing up any loads of grossness, which i assume i have in my lungs because im 30 now and i have been smoking a pack a day for at lest the last 15 years not to mention smoking loads of pot for years, (which i quit last year). I quit for two months last year, and was doing pretty well but after o ne month i started being very angry, at everyone all the time. very short temper. wanted to tear peoples heads off for nothing really.. im wondering if anyone else has had that come in about a month after quitting, and how long it took for them to return to a relatively normal length fuse of anger.
I am scared of that part of quitting, but right now after three days, aside from having to eat a little more here and there to staisfy my body, im doing very well. good luck to all.

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jacob - September 1, 2009, 3:47 am

So today is day 5 for me and i am having sweats when i sleep that wake me up dreams of smoking that def depress me and wake me up and getting very little sleep do to this. Was smoking a pack a day for a year and was getting worse towards the end due to two jobs. are these syptoms normal

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vicki - September 6, 2009, 4:21 pm

I have smoked for over 20yrs and decided to quit. I am on my 3rd day. I have been lying in bed for 3days and wondering when these withdrawl symptoms will end! I am very cranky when I am awake. the rest of the time, I just sleep. i just want a cig so bad, it's killing me right now.

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nick - September 8, 2009, 5:58 am

tonight at 8 pm will be two weeks, i had previously written in on my 3rd day... i guess i am one of the lucky ones.. because i am not going through any of the withdrawal symptoms that most of the people on here are..
I have read all of the posts on this page probably twice, for motivation, and expecting an incredible battle to ensue.. I smoked for 15 years, a pack or more a day... so now at just about two weeks quit, i rarely think about smoking, i sat around the house with my girl yesterday drinking beer and watching tv, and not quite bothered by thoughts of cigarettes at all.
i tried to quit last year, and it was very hard, because i had feelings of loss, like i lost a friend or crutch.. I dont have that this time, what you have to redefine is what cigarettes really are. read allen carrs book, the easy way to quit smoking...
it wasnt the way i quit, i read his book, and smoked for a few more weeks and then quit, but how he shows you the other side of ciggarettes becomes hard to ignore, and thoughts of passages in that book probably helped me through one or more of the rough patches in the first couple days.
for me, and hopefully for more of us, its is mostly in your head, redefine how you think about smoking, and rewire your brain.. then just buckle down and barrel through the physical side of it. for me, the physical side of it was easy to kick after three days.
good luck!

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Ian - September 10, 2009, 9:23 pm

Keep it up everyone. I've been quit just over 7 days now.

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Laura - September 11, 2009, 6:27 am

Hello everyone, I've been a pack a day smoker for 10+ years. Today is day one for me..going in this with all hope that today is the start of a new life, but I need some help to keep my feet on the ground. Any suggestions?
Laura
27-

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Ian - September 11, 2009, 7:49 am

Hi Laura, the next 3-4 days will be the toughest. Drink lots of water and do deep breathing exercises and go for a walk when you get the cravings. After that it gets a little better around day 5-6. Good luck.

Ian

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Beth - September 12, 2009, 9:40 pm

Im so happy i found this site, been feeling very alone. 6 months ago i got laid off fell into a depression of sleeping and smoking to the point it was making me sick. I never tried to give up cigs until 6 days ago so far so good. Cold Turkey. I smoked for 30 yrs (no breaks) is it true the longer u smoked the harder withdrawal will be?? I am fighting the depression already also i have no medical coverage so drugs are out. When will i feel less shaky and sleep etc. Beth

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V. - September 12, 2009, 10:08 pm

This is my 27 hour with out...and I'm going crazy!! I really hope I can continue on this is my 2nd time trying to stop.

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Ian - September 13, 2009, 11:52 am

Beth - The longer you smoked the harder the withdrawal.

V. - Hang in there for another 2-3 days it will get better.

Ian

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Ian - September 13, 2009, 5:54 pm

I just hit my 10 day mark without smoking.

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Ian - September 15, 2009, 8:27 pm

Just an update. I just completed day 12 of my quit. The shakes and tremors have stopped around day 9. The bad taste in the mouth is slowy disappearing. Still get the cravings 4-5 times a day. Still get tired easily. I wake up every two hours at night. Still congested since day 3, but could be due to my allergies?

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Ian - September 16, 2009, 5:14 pm

Just completed day 13. Feel very tired in the afternoons. Tried to do ONE chin up - very difficult feel very weak. I am really out of shape. Mouth ulcers/sores slowly disappearing. Bad taste in mouth not as bad now, but still there. I got one tremor/shake, I guess body still looking for nicotine. I get hungry alot now. Sinus congestion still there.

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Ian - September 17, 2009, 6:00 pm

Just hit the 2 week mark. The urges/cravings were pretty strong today. Had a little bit of the shakes, slowly fading... My body is getting used to not having any nicotine. Very exhausting to try and not smoke. Still bad taste in the mouth. Sinus congestion still there, but not as bad. Feel tightness in chest now. Overall starting to feel better than a week ago.

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karen - September 22, 2009, 7:50 pm

Hi, I am just at the end of my 3rd day of not smoking. It is the hardest thing I have ever done. The nights are the worse. I smoked for 30 yrs and my husband is still smoking. I have quit cold turkey because I have tried just about everything out there and nothing works. Every night I come home from work my cravings become almost uncontrollable. My husband is in the garage smoking and we always smoked together, like after dinner or with a cocktail. I am very irritable and anxious. My head and thoughts are kind of foggy. I wish someone could tell me how long before I will start feeling normal again. I don't know how long I can go feeling this out of control.

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Carrissa - September 22, 2009, 8:50 pm

Well now!! Almost ten months,,I think I started on this site on my 6th day if you look back to November. 3 packs a day habit,,compulsive to the ma X 10! So free,, free of all smoke now..cold turkey my friends. Those who think there is a set day when nick fits end and withdrwawal stops -are setting themselves up,,there is no set anything,,,every addict is different,,all symptoms are listed here by us quitters from months back. YOU ARE NOT ALONE! END YOUR SLAVERY!! Hang on until your common sense returns!! GOOD LUCK!

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Simon (UK) - September 23, 2009, 6:13 am

Day 26 with no smoking. I broke the habbit remarkably ez after 21 years of 30-a-day. Wore 15mg patches until day 21. Was planning the usual ween off of patches but decided last Saturday that was it. So, no smoke 26 days, no nicotine 5 days. Last few days been bad, sinus congestion and ringing in my ears is awful. It is reducing day by day, but slowly! Still determined never going back. My kids and my girlfriend really proud of me.

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karen - September 23, 2009, 1:37 pm

Hey Carrissa, Thanks for being such a great cheerleader for everyone. I went back and read your blogs, and man I can feel your original pain. I don't feel any better then I did last night, I have been very emotional today, crying alot when I don't even know what I crying about. My stomach has been upset all day and I have had a annoying headache. But after reading everything you wrote, I know I can get thru this. I feel sorry for my husband and son though, they have been getting the brunt of my grouchyness. I just keep thinking that when this finally ends I will be able to breath without inhalers and maybe get up and down the basement steps with out having to stop to catch my breath. I WANT TO LIVE! Thanks again keep up the good work.

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Ian - September 23, 2009, 2:18 pm

Day 20 of my quit. Have a little more energy, I notice it in the mornings. My muscles ache a little, still get the cravings but I fight them off. Still get tremors/shakes, not as bad now. Keep it up everyone...

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Simon (UK) - September 25, 2009, 4:53 am

Day 28 no smoking, day 7 no NRT. Have beaten the cravings and all the physical side affects (bar one) are gone. The 'one' is pretty bad though. Horrendous sinus/ears/nasal congestion and post nasal drip. This has lead to BAD tinnitus (ringing in the ears). I'm just praying this will stop soon?!?!

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Ian - September 26, 2009, 9:37 pm

Day 23 of my quit - cold turkey. Feeling better, but still have shortness of breath. Had the body shakes 2 days ago. Still feel weak at times. My hands and feet are always warm probably due to improved circulation. Still get the cravings about 5 times a day. I have a mouth sore.

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nick - September 27, 2009, 8:36 pm

Hi everyone.. im a few days past a month here and im feeling great.. apparently i had an easy time quitting. much easier than a lot of the folks on this site.. i still get twitches now and then, but i kind of laugh them off... sometimes i think to myself.. holy crap.. i used to just kill myself, day in and day out.. and i was paying through the nose to do it.. it literally makes me laugh.. and then the craving is gone. I feel so bad for people still smoking. i was waiting for some of the awful symptoms that people on this site had spoke of, but they never came..
i still have sinus congestion that hasn't gotten too much better.. its better than when i smoked... but i had gotten so used to it when i smoked that when it got a little better i couldnt believe it.. but now i stil have quite a bit of blockage.. and im not sure if it will clear up the rest of the way.. i really hope so... but to all the people out there that have been smoking a long time.. long enough to know that they cant really breathe easily through their nose... breathing through your nose is awesome.. its one of my favorite things to do now.. and im not even that cleared up yet. anyways god luck to all.. and down with the evil tobacco companies.. they should be tried and prosecuted for murder.

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Laura - September 29, 2009, 1:09 am

day three!
I quit cold turkey 27th/sept for the first time in nearly 5 years. I am twenty three and have had bronchitis/throat problems 3 times this year, i really do think it was because of my smoking(half a pack a day). i am sick at the moment with tonsilitis and a fever and if i can ever imagine what mouth/throat cancer would feel like...im know it would be a million times worse then this (and thats unimaginable). i dont even care that im not smoking because i feel so sick...im know that once i get better ill never ever pick up a cigarette again.

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karen - September 29, 2009, 10:33 am

Starting my 10th day today smoke free. The first week was absolutely the worst week of my life. I didn't think I would live through the withdrawals. Then on the weekend we went camping with friends and everyone of the people with us smoked. I thought I was going to go crazy. One night after a few drinks I couldn't take it anymore and had a couple of drags off my husbands cig. Worse thing in the world. I felt so guilty that I didn't even think about trying that again the rest of the weekend. Sunday and Monday seemed to go better. I had hardly any withdrawals and the temptation was there but went away pretty fast. Now today is another story. I feel like I am going to crawl out of my skin. Every little thing is bothering me and I am snapping at everyone around me. I knew this was going to be hard but I didn't think I was going to be on a roller coaster ride. Every time I think things are getting better I go back a step. I hope this will end soon, and I hope falling back during the weekend didn't make things worse for me. No matter what I am going to stick with this because my health is important to me and I no longer want to live depending on cigs, and then an inhaler to breath.

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Ian - September 29, 2009, 1:08 pm

Great stuff guys, hang in there. I just completed day 26 of my quit. I'm feeling just a little better than my first week. The cravings can get pretty heavy still.

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Carrissa - October 1, 2009, 7:40 am

Well I have a terrible cold,,,It's hard to believe before I quit smoking I had colds and bronchiatus and pneumonia all the time,,I feel like death. First cold in ten months. So wierd ..anyways glad to see all the new quitters. Don't worry if you cheat just get back up on the horse and keep going! Yes to breath normally is amazing! Cheaters go on youtube,,and get an education on wat this crap will do to you,,I recommend "thanx tabacco you killed my mom." This one sticks out in my head till this day, I will never pick up that demonstick again. my friends are amazed because I was so hard core, Every one will hate you as u quit -- oh well they will get over it...there is never a good time to do. Now is the time. I look at smokers now with pity,,it looks so bizzarre to me...anyways keep on quitting,,don't stop! GOOD LUCK!

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Ian - October 3, 2009, 8:16 pm

1 month quit for me today!!!

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morgan - October 5, 2009, 3:00 pm

Day 3 for me. It's sooooo hard but I want it more than anything. I have been doing lots of coughing and hacking in just three days...any suggestions?

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Ian - October 5, 2009, 5:38 pm

That's good morgan, your lungs are cleaning out all toxins. Drink lots of water, go for long walks whenever you get the cravings.

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morgan - October 5, 2009, 8:01 pm

I can't seem to find any motivation to want to do anything but try to sleep. I don't crave when I sleep. I'm also having issues concentrating on anything. Thanks for the advice. It sure is nice to know other people are experiencing the same difficulty.

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Ian - October 6, 2009, 9:06 am

Just a couple of more days you will start to feel better. Hang in there.

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Maria - October 8, 2009, 7:52 am

It's been 11 days since I quite smoking. I have had some kind of chest pain. More between my ribs. Is this some kind of side effect? I feel like I'm going to have a heart attack, very anxious. Please help, I am just praying this is normal!

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Alfred - October 8, 2009, 7:53 am

Is it possible for this to happen with second hand smoke? I live in a four-plex and each of the surrounding three occupants all smoke. I mean sometimes it is so bad we have to air out the apartment for hours. We told our landlord about it. When we moved in it was said these were NON-SMOKING apartments. Hence the consultation. But he seems to be ignoring it. Now my 3 year old daughter, 15 year old son, my girlfriend and I all are having respiratory problems. High fevers as well. We've been here well over three years now. But it has gotten so bad for us that we're all going in to the ER this morning. Is it possible all this might be playing a major role? Please help me with any advice you may have. Thanks.

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Paul - October 8, 2009, 8:00 am

Maria - I think you should see a doctor. The chest pain could be related to nicotine withdrawal, but don't take a chance.

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Jan - October 9, 2009, 8:17 am

I am 57 years old and smoked for 40 years. Seven months ago I was up to about 50 cigs a day. I began to record my cigs on paper and made myself stretch out the time between smokes. I went from 20 mins to 30 mins, to 1 hour etc. until I was down to 2 a day. I put on a 14 mg patch and quit 12 days ago. My withdrawal is not as bad as some of what I have read here but my sinuses ache and my tongue burns and I know it would stop if I had a cigarette. I do not want to be a smoker anymore. I am determined to overcome any obstacle. Cigarettes were my "ball and chain" and I want to be free. I am really looking forward to the night that I can finally say, "Gee, I didn't think about having a cigarette today". Love this website, good luck to all of us.

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Ian - October 14, 2009, 7:47 am

Goodluck Jan.

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Henry - October 17, 2009, 12:20 am

Hi everyone, i'v been a smoker for 25 years and 2 weeks ago i attempted to quit. on the third day i suffered a massive heart attack and was rushed to the ER and went into intensive care! the doctor told me that i need to start smoking immediately because the withdrawals and stress could kill me. Has anyone ever heard of a heart attack as a side affect of nicotine withdrawal? i am very scared now because smoking is supposed to be bad for your heart but if i don't smoke i will have another heart attack and probably die!! i don't know what to do.

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Jan - October 20, 2009, 9:15 am

Never heard of it, maybe it was coincidental. If I were you, I would cut down gradually and try again. Not everyone can quit cold turkey.

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Carrissa - October 22, 2009, 12:18 pm

Hi folks,,congrats to all the new quitters,,once again if you read previous blogs all withdrawal symptoms are mentioned,,for some people quitting is a brief but agonizing thing they go thru for others smoking is or has become and horrible compulsive addiction and quitting will be difficult and take more than 30 days,,I was so pissy if someone suggested I go for a walk or eat a carrot stick -I usually threw something at their head,,it was recently discovered that I had an OCD form of this addiction,, and that's why quitting for me was a long process. However next month will be my one year anniversery and I will no longer blog here,, (although you are welcome to e-mail any questions) I just thot I would show people that had a tough time quitting that they could do it no matter how hard it was,,,this blog helped me stay true to myself and helping other sufferers,,but now it will soon be time to move on and fully start living as a non-smoker (who no longer counts down the months..) LOL wishing you all release and peace!

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Ian - October 22, 2009, 1:54 pm

Goodluck Carrissa and fare well.

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Jan - October 23, 2009, 8:39 am

Day 26 for me. Thank you so much, Carissa, for helping me through my quit. You are a great inspiration to all of us.

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Sean - October 26, 2009, 5:35 pm

Hi. I was a pack a day smoker for 25 years now on day 3 of quitting. So far I'm not finding it too bad but that's partly beacuse I drank and smoked so much last weekend I felt really ill. So far I've had intense cravings,
sweats, disturbed sleep patterns, sore tongue, headaches etc. Funnily enough though I do already feel calmer and a bit healthier in a way that I can't quite put my finger on. I once made it 3 months off the smokes but cracked in a bar one night so this time I'm giving up alcohol too (oh and caffeine...I can't have a coffee without needing a smoke) Should be interesting!

Anyone well done to all here for attempting to give up whether you have succeeded yet or not. Keep at it folks :)

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annmarie - October 28, 2009, 4:49 am

hi. iam 26 yrs old as of the 3rd of november this yr. i have been smoking since i was fifteen, last week i decided i wanted to quit as this was something i had in my head for a long time. i have been using nicotine lozenges 1.5mg and breath mints..
the hardest thing i have found about the quit is the panic and anxiety as i already have this disorder with the quit..!!!
im feeling really bad for my hubby and my little girl right now as i failed myself by having 2 puffs of a smoke and iam now angry but practically blaming them...
got the shakes, aches in legs and arms,feel tired all the time,constant hunger and have a really sore tongue almost feels swollen has anyone else experienced this please help!

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Squezz - October 28, 2009, 5:54 am

I gave up on 3rd of October. Comparing to your experience, mine is nothing. I was very nervous and aggressive first couple of days, but now it is getting better. I still think about the fags, but cravings are not that strong and I experience them less frequently. So, just carry on non-smoking and it has to be ok! I gave up once for one and half year, I still had cravings and nightmares about cigarettes even after 1,5 year of no smoking... It is hard, but it is possible. Nicotinism is like alcoholism, you can stop but you are never free, however is relatively easy to keep non-smoking habit after a year or so.
Beware, if you smoke even one cigarette, even if it won't be nice experience, and you think you can do this without the punishment, you are terribly wrong. That's only the first nail to your coffin. You WILL start again!!! Remember you will start from point zero! I know what I'm talking about I made that mistake and it cost me 2 years of smoking after 1,5 year break!!! Keep it in mind guys!

Good Luck
Mikolaj

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Carrissa - October 28, 2009, 1:59 pm

All symptoms and related anxiety has been reported several times by previous bloggers,,as well as thier e-mail access,,if your looking to relate please go back and read them. Don't quit quitting....;-) I do not crave at all,, infact I am disgusted I ever smoked -my palms and bed clothes reeked of nicotine until 9 and half months later as the poison leeched out of my skin. I smoked three packs a day compulsively,,I quit cold turkey and I had a hell of a time. It took me five years of quitting to get it right! You must reprogram the way you think about this deadly addiction...

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Maria - October 28, 2009, 2:40 pm

Its been 40 days since my last cigarette and I feel great. It was tough in the begining, and I didn't feel too good. But I made it through the worst part. I am looking foward for the holidays and all the wonderful scents they bring. My baking won't be overwhelmed with cigarettes and my Christmas Tree won't smell like an ashtray! Good luck to everyone else! Be strong!

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Ian - November 7, 2009, 9:40 pm

Day 65 for me.

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adamg - November 18, 2009, 3:48 pm

I think that the symptoms of quitting smoking are sometimes exacerbated for individuals who have panic attacks. Also, based on some research that I've conducted, quitting smoking can actually induce panic attacks and even depression. Anyway, I smoked about a pack a day for a decade or so and recently quit about a week and a half ago. Since then, I've been to the emergency room freaking out that my symptoms were something beyond nicotine withdrawal. My doctor told me that ringing in the ears, sinus pressure, dizziness, double-vision, eyes twitching, irritability, lack of desire, chronic cough, fear are all associated with stress brought about by quitting smoking. It's been a hell of a ride the past week and a half, but I'm actually starting to feel much better and I think that I may actually succeed, although at times I've wondered if it's worth it. I guess we'll see b/c I'm not freaking smoking another cigarette for as long as I live.

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adamg - November 18, 2009, 4:17 pm

I hope you're alright, Henry. I think your post is important and will probably incite lots of thought among people who are interested in finding the best way to quit smoking: Maybe quitting is something that should be thoroughly contemplated before action. Have you considered possibly taking medicine and/or pills like Chantix (I'm not sure if that's how you spell it)? Maybe that will help.

Anyway, I had a trip to the emergency room as the result of quitting smoking and all of the symptoms that I was experiencing were very similar to those associated with heart attacks and stroke. My doctor told me to relax and that smoking cessation induced stress can cause a heart attack. So, what did I do? I tried the following and believe me it helps w/ the stress: 1) practiced progressive muscle relaxation (wikipedia, ', ', ', ', ', NULL, NULL, 1, 1), 2) practiced the relaxation response (buy the book by Herbert Benson, cheap and a fun read, ', ', ', ', ', NULL, NULL, 1, 1), and 3) transcendental meditation (basically a slight variation of (2, ', ', ', ', ', NULL, NULL, 1, 1), or maybe its the other way around).

According to Benson, the steps of the relaxation response are the following:
1) Pick a focus word, short phrase, or prayer that is firmly rooted in your belief system.
2) Sit quietly in a comfortable position.
3) Close your eyes.
4) Relax your muscles, progressing from your feet to your calves, thighs, abdomen, shoulders, head, and neck.
5) Breath slowly and naturally, and as you do, say your focus word, sound, phrase, or prayer silently to yourself as you exhale.
6) Assume a passive attitude. Don't worry about how well you're doing. When other thoughts come to mind, simply say to yourself, "Oh well," and gently return to your repetition.
7) Continue for ten to twenty minutes.
8) Do not stand immediately. Continue sitting quietly for a minute or so, allowing other thoughts to return. Then open your eyes and sit for another minute before rising.
9) Practice the technique once or twice daily. good times to do are before breakfast and before dinner.

Well, I hope this helps. God bless.

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Judiboo - December 27, 2009, 4:30 am

216 days. Two hundred and sixteen. May 26th 2009. Just to put a different slant on it apart from the health benefits - That equates to at least 4320 smokes, at least £1080 - one thousand and eighty pounds UK sterling which also converts at this stage so far to a new flat screen tv, new food mixer, new shredder, all Christmas paid for. How cool is that ? Oh and by the way I am 65 and have smoked since I was 12. The £££ maths is frightening. Done all the withdrawals, cold turkey, all of it- still battling with the sinus drainage but getting there. Keep it up, keep it up.

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kevin - January 3, 2010, 7:48 pm

I have been smoking for 2 years and I am nineteen now. I quit on midnight of the new year, just three days ago. but i am having horrible nausea, insomnia, irritability, and body fatigue. I leave for basic training for the US military on February 2nd. any idea of how to try to calm these symptoms down so im not screwed for boot?

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Jay - January 8, 2010, 11:03 am

im 20 and i just quit before new years, everything has been ok until yesterday. my doctor put me on cymbalta. i am bipolar and have anxiety so i used smoking for those problems. when i quit i just got really moody, and i was having anxiety attacks, the cymbalta is helping with that but now i am really tired and have a headache that wont go away. is there any other way to deal with my anxiety and bipolar?

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mks - January 17, 2010, 3:01 pm

Hi, I m 24 and have been smoking around 10 cigs a day for last 3 years. I have quit smoking many times :P, but I want this one to be the last one. Its been 24hrs since my last smoke and the withdrawal symptoms are usual. Fever, coughing, body pain and diziness. Best of luck to everyone. From my past quitting experiences i can tell that most symptoms die down in 2 weeks or so. Some symptoms continue a little longer (for me it was coughing). It is really worth it. The pain is temporary. Just hang in there (and i'll try the same :)

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JimmyLee - January 19, 2010, 4:58 pm

I have been quit for one month today. Was a smoker for 25 years... this was my fourth time quitting.
The hardest thing to realize is that I am an addict. It is easy to think of alcohol and drugs as addictions - but the addict behavior is the same... constantly telling myself that I can't do it or hearing the addict in me trying to trip me up... "I'm so irritated and I can't stand being mean... the stress is too great and I have to get away." One day at a time... sometimes one minute at a time. I smoked for 25years... the answer will not come to me in one month.

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John - January 20, 2010, 9:21 am

Day 7 using 21mg patches. I'm freaking over this sore and swollen tongue thing. This morning I couldn't eat anything it hurt so bad. It started out 4 days ago as a sore throat, next day a sore tongue, now a swollen tongue, tender gums and tender inside lips. My tongue has a white blotchy coating on top. The sides feel like they've been sliced open. Gums so tender I can't brush my teeth. This is NORMAL?

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Paul - January 20, 2010, 11:03 am

John - maybe the brand or strength of your patches are not suitable for you. I think you should see your doctor about these symptoms.

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Dwight - March 12, 2010, 8:57 am

I smoked for 42 years, 1 + pack per day, had a heart attack 3 years ago, quit smoking twice before in my life. I've been smoke free now for 9 months.
1. I never say that I will never smoke again (puts too much mental pressure on me). 2.Dumb Dumb suckers (helps with the physical withdrawal) . 3.Coffee (relaxes me).

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Tracie - April 25, 2010, 10:10 am

hi I am 25. I smoked about eight years total. Quit during pregnancy and started up again Dumb,dumb, dumb I know but one night out at the bar... Anyway I smoked a pack or more everyday. I've tried to quit several times but never wanted to truley for myself. My husband always wanted me to. I really really wanted to this time and I know thats the reason I've been so much more successful. I've never went this long doing so well. Last pack done on 4/18/10. Trying cold turkey was my goal because I don't see a point in prolonging the inevitable struggle. I let cravings take over me and i bummed one cigaretted on the 20th and then messed up yesterday and two. They were both because I was around smokers or triggers. Which I'm not trying to be around. Like yesterday my neighbor shows up at my door whom I never hang out with or anything and asks me to help her with her fish tank and she smokes... But today will be a week of some satifaction. I was very easy to be discouraged but just because you slip doesnt mean you say screw it lets kill my self 30 years ahead of my time because im a failure. This week has been horrible though first two days no cigs at all sick as hell feeling and horrible coughing that has not yet let up. I have a horrible sore throat, tongue hurts,trouble sleeping even through sleeping aids, the head tension and headaches from coughing, and anxiety cravings. The was the worst run on sentence ever lol. The worst for me really is my cough I can hardly get anything productive. I have to cough so hard and lift my arms over my head to cough to get any airway. My throat is still on fire. Still trudging

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Tracie - April 25, 2010, 11:02 am

Man I wish i would have read what I wrote before posting.I typed it so fast I made alot of mistakes sorry lol please read between the lines

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Paul - April 25, 2010, 6:52 pm

Tracie - even though you're going through a lot of withdrawal pain, it sounds like you're determined to quit, so just keep on with it. Setbacks happen from time to time, but it's always important to renew your resolve - that sounds like what you are doing - so keep it up - you're doing great. And try to keep away from the smokers - they're not going to help you ...

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Carrissa - April 28, 2010, 7:48 pm

Hey Hey ALL! WOO HOO! Congrats as usual 2 all the heroes of quitting! just popping in to say howdy! Yes I am still quit...and yes I feel good! Finally braved up for a chest x-ray. I smoked 17 years and fairly heavily. when I was 31 I had an x-ray and it was clear. I quit when i was 35 and half and my last x-ray showed extensive middle chest scarring and scar tissue... i think after 17 years of bronchiatus and pnuemonia and 3 packs a day that I got off pretty easy. no cancer! Thank GOD, the universe, and my will power! The doc said to swim or get regular exercise to strengthen my lungs. of course. also tho I was reccomemnded that reiki could heal internal scarring. make sure your practitioner is legit ..k? well thanx to everyone for thier support,,the blogging kept me honest. Hey I found some smokes in the freezer the other day and gave them away ...back in the day those smokes would not have lasted a day. I don't crave,,I healed my mind as well as the addiction. I am free. Love and good luk to all. Dont quit quitting! I am 37 and I am truly FREE! & I truly believe I quit just in time and came out lucky.

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Krys - June 3, 2010, 2:56 am

I just quit May 31 because I got a severe case of tonsillitis(sp?) and figured might as well quit now since can't smoke with this going on. Seemed to be going fine, but now that I'm getting better, not so cool. I woke up this morning feeling crazy. I thought I was dying or something crazy like that! I'm fine now, for the most part, but man I really want a cigarette. I'm assuming my crazy wake-up was really just me wanting a cigarette on top of not being all the way better. I really hope I can quit this time around. I've been smoking on and off for seventeen years. More on than off though. lol I just wish the withdrawl wans't so hard. This is worse than when I stopped doing other drugs!!! Cigarettes are my last vice (and believe me, I used that as an excuse to keep smoking. "Oh, this ain't nothing compared to what I've done in the past. Its my last vice!"). Wish me luck. I'm gonna need it.

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Carr - June 3, 2010, 5:22 am

Good luk Krys,, everything u need is here in these blogs left by us for u! o and can someone take my last name off april 28 2010. I dont know why I put that on, But thanx.

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Carrissa - June 5, 2010, 1:27 am

thanx! :-)

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X - June 10, 2010, 3:17 am

i feel tired on monday and tuesday at work place after having a weekend cigarette time. the withdrawals are hard. but if you tell your mind to find a good state of mind through another means, such as music, coffee, etc, then the mind will obey.

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Kris - June 11, 2010, 7:54 pm

Totally understand! You're not alone. I quit for 5 months and all it took was one and I was back on the puffing away wagon. I was so mad at myself! I flushed what was left of the pack last night. I guess since I have a cold anyway, might as well feel miserable. I guess I am fortunate that I only get cranky but the cravings do come in waves. Just get over the waves, remind yourself of why you quit and stick to your guns! Good luck I'm right in the same boat

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Tan - June 14, 2010, 6:20 am

Well its my 5th Day since I quit.... but then I did take 7-8 drags on Sat Nite along with my Drinks.... I am 32 and i started smoking almost2 years back.... whats the way out ? i at times get nightmares that I am not able to quit and have become a slave to this horrible thing which is killing me everyday. Its not the Nicotine I feel that I want, its more the need to be involved in Conversations in office, amongst friends that makes me wanna smoke. Is there an easy out ? I really really wanna quit. Please help.

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Carrissa - June 17, 2010, 11:06 pm

No this is not easy,, i used self hypnosis and I let the chips land where the wanted when it came to quitting ..I just let the shit hit the fan.. i made it my life's f-ing purpose to not be enslaved, I didnt care who or wat was at risk.. I didn't care how much I ate or who I pissed off,, nothing was gonna get in the way of my seeing my way out of this hell. The web sites said it the cravings would only last minutes, Bullsh*t, I sat through 9 days of maddness as wave after wave of withdrawal wracked my body. But I got through it I rode those waves like a f-ing surfer,, I embraced the whole process.. I burned it in my brain so I would never forget the hell of quitting,, it took months to gain my consentration back,, anyways my mouth was on fire and I lost my job and I gained thirty pounds,, I fought with all my friends & drove my family very crazy! It was all so temporary and all so VERY worth it!!!! One year six months..I feel amazing! Good luk,, save yourselves no one else will,,

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Donna - July 5, 2010, 8:20 pm

I am right at 72 hours with out a smoke. I began smoking 20 years ago, anywhere between 1/2-1 pack a day. I have been taking Welbutrin for 2 weeks, plus have been on Lexapro for chronic depression for a long time. The first day was really not bad, yesterday was worse, but today, the only thing I could do to not go to the store for a pack was sleep. I slept most of the day. I am very irritable. I feel bad, cause I know my 4 year old doesn't understand why I am so irritable and it hurts me so much when I hurt his feeings. I tried to explain to him and he wants me to stop smoking. I go back to work tomorrow and I am scared to death! I really just feel like crying, which is not unusual for me anyway, given my history of depression. I just don't feel confident right now. I just want a smoke, so all this pain, crying and irritability will go away.

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Paul - July 6, 2010, 5:51 am

Donna - the first couple of days are the worst because your body is really craving that nicotine hit. You're doing great so far - so for the sake of your health and the sake of your son, keep up your resolve and always keep in mind that it gets easier every day you don't smoke.

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Patty - July 6, 2010, 7:47 am

Dont give up! You can overcome the cig addiction, all it takes is time, and time is going to pass anyway, right? I used the nicotine replacement losengers and it helped immensely. It was at the 2-3 week poing when the cravings really kicked in. remenber TIME GOES BY! Here are my stats, the greatest accomplishment of my life!
NO CIGS 459 days, 12 hours, 41 minutes and 47 seconds
Cigarettes NOT smoked: 6893
Money Saved: $2,242.50

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Greg - July 6, 2010, 8:33 am

I am 20 years old, only been smoking for 2 years... Probably bout 6 months outta that time was one pack a day... This is day 2 for me, couldnt sleep last night, had dull chest pains (I'm 20 and excersise) so I'm assuming it's part of the process but WTF, I know with a smoke they would go away... I work at an internship and can't be irratable so I need advice what to do to help stop these cravings.

Thanks,

Greg

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Paul - July 6, 2010, 9:11 am

Greg - you might want to try a nicotine replacement - gum or patches. Given your age and the relatively short time you've been smoking, you will probably get over these symptoms quite fast. Let the people at work know that you are quitting and they might be a bit more tolerant if you are not in the best of moods.

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molly - July 7, 2010, 12:59 pm

I'm in my fifth day of recovery. I'm 55 years old, have smoked for 37 years, and was up to 1 1/2 packs a day. I guess I quit for myself and to satisfy my family. I'm so sad without my cigarettes.

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Laura - July 12, 2010, 10:40 am

This is my third day not smoking. I am 26 year old and the doctor said if I didnt quit I would have to be on oxygen by the time I was thirty. My biggest withdrawl symptom is dizziness and short of breath and nausea. I had to quit cause I can't breathe. I just remind myself of that constantly.

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John - July 12, 2010, 12:18 pm

Second time this year I've quit. 12 days today. Back in January I complained about the mouth sores etc., and I didn't make it 2 weeks. But, when I started again I switched from Marlboros to American Spirit all-natural no-additives cigarettes on the advice of a friend who said the severe withdrawal symptoms were from the additives in the Marlboros. Well, this time, I'm experiencing none of those mouth sores or severe odor reactions that I had in the past. Maybe there's something to her claim?

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Helen - July 20, 2010, 9:23 am

Hello, I am on day 15 and I am starting to see light at the end of the tunnel. I had given up twice before when I had my boys but started again once they were born. I decided I needed to give up when I went to bed and could hear myself wheeze, I have smoked for 25 years and dont want to push my luck any further so stopped. The first week was awful, I felt cloudy headed, dizzy,sort of drunk, tired but kept waking up all night and getting up very early in the morning too. I have done it cold turkey but found the dizziness the worst side effect if honest. I now have a sore throat,only on one side. If I can do it cold turkey after smoking for all these years anyone can, also my grandad died of Lung Cancer, its a terrible diesese and I want to do anything to avoid it !!!

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Lynda - July 23, 2010, 3:41 pm

I quit 3 days ago. A week ago I was in the ER twice and the actual doctors office twice. My asthma has gotten significantly worse in the past two years. This time, they had to mail me an actual nebulizer machine. Not only had I gone through a week long asthma attack but I also had the worst bronchitis I've ever had. To top it off, they gave me two Xrays to make sure it wasn't pneumonia. I was turning into a wheezing machine and had to use my inhaler every two hours. RIDICULOUS! I got so pissed that I quit, and I'm so glad that I did! Sometimes visuals help. Today I had a hard time so I went to Youtube and watched, "Thanks Tobacco, You Killed My Mom." It made me realize that this is not about me as much as it is about my son needing his mother more than I need a friggin smoke! Anyway, sorry about the exclamations everywhere...still pretty grumpy, lol :) Best of luck and good wishes to you all <3

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Rose - July 28, 2010, 10:20 pm

This is my second day of not smoking! It's making me sick, but I'm sick already, so what's the difference. I went looking for withdrawal symtoms and I landed here at this site 2 1/2 hrs. ago. I read, read and read everyone's post for the last two years..WAY TO GO QUITTERS!!!! This has helped me tremendously reading everyone's posts to keep on going smoke-free. Everyone has answered one question or another for me...thanks so much for having this website. I pray to God that I get thru this. Tomorrow is a dr.'s appointment, so we'll see how I'm doing. Good luck everyone in quitting!!

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Lynda - July 28, 2010, 10:36 pm

Way to go Rose! You can do it :) The 2nd day is the worst in my opinion. It's been 8 days for me now. Today was especially hard because there has been more stress than usual. I guess its time to figure out a new way to handle stressful situations. Anyway, good luck to you and congrats :)

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Carrissa - July 29, 2010, 12:29 am

9 days in is very tough too,, Keep up the good work! "Those smokers will test you" < (Jay-Z said that) 30 days to break the habit and the rest is up to u,,

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Tiffany - July 29, 2010, 2:15 am

Hey all you brave souls, keep up all the great work. 24 hours since my last cig. Yikes!! 1 pack a day for 12 years. Was getting dizzy spells and had a high red blood count. Guess my body is not getting oxygen. Had to stop, but this really suck.

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Rose - July 29, 2010, 6:51 am

Thanks Lyn and Car for the encouragement. Gonna need it to fight this "demon". But I kow I CAN do it....congrats to you also and good luck!!!! ;) (By the way it's day three!!!!)

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john - July 29, 2010, 10:05 am

Paul - I noticed you have been following this site for quite some time and giving several people advise, however I have not seen your story yet. Were you a smoker? I quit for abt 2 years and lately have been socially smoking because I work for a Japanese firm and its respectful in their culture to have a smoke together. Hopefully its just a short phase and i do not go back

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teresa - July 29, 2010, 12:20 pm

Just stop smoking 4 days ago after smoking for over 20 years.This is so hard,Having lightheadness and anxiety,will that go away??

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JimmyLee - July 29, 2010, 12:31 pm

I just passed my seventh month and yes, it does get easier, but... just because I quit smoking doesn't mean that my problems or issues have gone away. For me, I am an addict, I have problems that smoking seemed to help. It was my companion, it gave me something to do, it allowed me to remove myself from social situations when I was feeling insecure... so many. For me, I not only have to look at quitting smoking, I have to look at why it is so hard for me to quit smoking. Why am I doing this to myself?

My point is... here I am seven months later and I having horrible waves of cravings last week. I was at the point of planning out how my relapse into smoking was going to happen. I went directly to my friends and told them what I was doing.

God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference.

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Lynda - July 29, 2010, 1:00 pm

You're welcome Rose :) Thanks Carissa! Tiffany, having to stop sucks right? I had to stop too, lol. Teresa: I still get dizzy and have anxiety but I have anxiety naturally so I need to learn how to deal with that. To you and JimmyLee: Keep the strength, it gets a little easier every day. We are stronger than smokes, we just don't know it yet :)

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teresa - July 29, 2010, 1:56 pm

Thanks Lynda so needed to hear that.This is really hard but i know it's what i need to do and i'm going to stay focused and keep moving forward..Never smoke again..

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carrissa - July 29, 2010, 5:55 pm

You know I have to confess about something I felt awkward writing here,, because I didn't want folks to worry,, all through May and parts of June I craved ciggies very badly and felt wat I call post-withdrawl symptoms. So I brought this up with my psychologist, because it was seriously kicking my ass, I mean I really felt great 1 & 1/2 years -until this occurred. I thot it was serious. anyways he told me that obviously I was dealing with issues that were tough and smoking had been a good cover - up and now I had no cover - up so I craved. Its simple I know but I guess I had to hear it. I feel okay now,, but I realize this horse is not dead,, However it just tells me to never forget quitting or else u will be back in the mess! So I hope this does not discourage u from the battle which might be a long one. Oh I still DID NOT smoke.. but there are some angry pedestrians who would like to kill me. I think. Sorry ,very sorry -but... I have no control when the demon is out of the cage. I just hold on and DONT smoke! also did anyone else's temper blow out of control when they quit?? Would really like to know how u all feel about the irritability and anger? Not techiniques like champix and deepbreathing etc. but actual opinions or feelings,, let me know. Pretty please. And here I thot I would not blog anymore,, cant help it,,

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Lynda - July 29, 2010, 9:20 pm

Carissa I have never felt more irritable or moody in my whole life...not even when I was 9 months pregnant. I had to actually tell my boyfriend, "If you know what's good for you, you will just let me be a b***h if I feel that's what I need!"..lmao! I try really hard to be my normal mellow self but the cravings make it hard. And it definitely doesn't help that he still smokes. I'm really hoping that I will get better with time. As for you, I'm glad that you were honest and shared your craving and I am even happier that you stuck it out without lighting up :) I really admire you for that.

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Crystal - July 30, 2010, 3:48 am

Hi everyone! Day 3 starts in 4 hours for me. I've been online all night. Why does no one ever tell you what quitting is really like? I was fine all day today other then being a little moody and light headed. About 8pm I started feeling like I couldn't get a good breathe which is when the runny nose started too. I'm 29. I started at 14 and have smoked the whole time minus 2 years during pregnacy. I smoke 1/4 to 1/2 pack a day. At this point I can't sleep. I fall asleep for 10 minutes and jerk awake again feeling like I can't breath right. I'm light headed, have a slight headache, am distracted, have had multiple aniexty attacks, runny nose going down my thoat, I have the shakes so bad! Freezing and sweating. My thoat is starting to burn. I want to cry but, that will make the mucus worse. I don't really feel like I need a cigarette but, then again my two little monster children are sleeping right now. I'm doing this cold turkey and it sucks! I'm gonna go try to sleep more and come back later to continue reading the last two years of posts on here.

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Teresa - July 30, 2010, 6:43 am

Crystal honey it will get better it's just the nicotine coming out of your body,stay strong and keep focus.I'm on day 5 of being smoke free,and yes this is really hard and all we can do is take it one day at a time.You will not fill like this forever because it will go away..STAY STRONG CRYSTAL..

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Crystal - July 30, 2010, 11:19 am

Thank you, Teresa! 50 hours smoke free now. This site has helped alot. Just reading some of what people have said and saying it myself. I went to the hospital last night freaking out but, didn't go in. Just walked around the block while I got my head together and realized what was going on. The worst right now is the drunk feeling and the tightness trying to breath. What is the gathered opinion on how long these symptoms last?

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Lynda - July 30, 2010, 11:27 am

Crystal, I'm not 100% but it seems the average is a couple of weeks. It does get a teeny bit better every day though. Today is day 10 for me and is turning out to be pretty mellow symptom-wise...so far anyway, but its only 10:30 a.m. lol :) Keep the strength

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JimmyLee - July 30, 2010, 12:15 pm

Ok... I'll share a story with you about my quitting experience this time around. I cried... at a drop of a hat, I would breakdown and cry. That drunk, light headed, dizzy feeling would settle in on me and I would cry.
What got me through it was having a network of friends, on speed dial on my cell. I charged four people from different places in my life... two friends from different circles, a co-worker, and an acquaintance. Each one I approached prior to my quit date and told them what I was about to do and to ask them if it would be ok for me to call them for help, since I believe that I can not do this by myself. Cigarettes were the center of my world, all I thought about and planned my day around... it would take, and continue to take, time to move past this behavior. Even if my network didn't understand what being an addict was like... just to have another person their to help me get through it was so important to me.
My common sense returned to me about 45 days after I quit... to be honest... about 90 days total for me to feel like I was back to myself again.
Many of us smoked for years... again, you can not fix this in 30 days... it will take time and it will get easier.

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Paul - July 30, 2010, 3:54 pm

John - you were asking about my story - I quit smoking several years ago. The thing that motivated me was seeing my dad die - he was a smoker since age 14 - several packs a day, and was in terrible shape before he died at age 66. I just think it's important to remind ourselves what a killer this tobacco shit is.

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carrissa - July 31, 2010, 2:10 pm

Thannx for sharing Jimmy-lee and Paul.. I agree about the process it took years to cement the habit and its not going down with out a fight,, I too thot day and night around smoking and it drove me bonkers and I am glad it did cuz not wanting to think about smoking 24-7 is a big reason I quit,,, It took 3 to 4 months before I could actually think straigt too.. Everyone is different. I also smelled like nicotine for 9 months after as it leeched out of my body.. the Stuff is like paint stain man,, Wish I never started wish I wish I wish! I still can not believe i put one after another into my body like an essembly line of self-death! Sorry its true ,,dramatic,, but true.. Well be well all ...;-)

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Rose - August 2, 2010, 12:03 pm

This is day eighyt for me! It's been a rough week and am also withdrawing from Xanax, which is highly addictable when you are on it for a very long time. I feel like I've been thru hell, and trying to dig myself up! BUT, I'm handling it. Gonna stick with it and fight these "demons"...prescription drugs are just as addictive as street drugs, don't let anyone tell you different!! Been on the xanax longer then I have been smoking, don't know why I ever started! Worst thing anyone can do in their lives...hope is out there, look for it!

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Teresa - August 2, 2010, 12:10 pm

Rose just hang in there and take one day at a time.I'll pray gor your strenghth..

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Lynda - August 2, 2010, 12:20 pm

Thanks for sharing your stories Paul, JimmyLee and Carissa. Rose, I will send strength and good wishes to you. I hope your recovery is fast. Today is day 13 for me. I thought for sure I would never make it without smoking yesterday...but I did. Today my gums feel really swollen which is weird. Anyway, I keep being told that it will take some time to feel normal again so I try to keep that in mind when the cravings attack me :) Stay strong people!

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Rose - August 2, 2010, 12:47 pm

Thanks Lynda for your encouraging words. Not get much help from family and I have no friends, so am turning in a different direction for strength and support. Thanks for taking the time out for being here at this site. My gums were really bad yesterday which was day 7, not so bad today, but still have the heebie jeebies, got a little sleep about an hour early this morning. Hope I sleep better tonight. Good luck to you all and you Lynda for being there.....

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Rose - August 2, 2010, 12:52 pm

Has anyone watched the youtube video of "Thanks Tobacco for Killing My MOM!" Very insightful....cried while watching it. They have other videos too on the subject... Lynda hope you feel better soon. There's nothing worse I think as hurting gums and throat, still have the sore throat, but gums feel better today...keep it up Lynda, I'll pray for you also!!

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Rose - August 2, 2010, 12:56 pm

Also thanks to Teresa...you stay strong also. Sorry, I am such a scatterbrain right now....good thing I'm not on the road!!

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Justin - August 14, 2010, 10:32 pm

I quit smoking cigarettes about a week ago after feeling like crap after a tetnus shot. oh my god i feel dead. cant sleep because of sweat, total mouth ( minus teeth ) and throat are sore... i cant drink water without lots of pain from throat and tongue. never did i think i was THIS addicted. started when i was legal age to drink (19). im 24 now.

im quitting because i only have 1 lung from birth and i want to be able to walk to 711 without being out of breath. ugh its worth it. minus well get it over with, now that iv hit "withdrawl".

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Kimberly - August 19, 2010, 9:30 am

Day 19 here with the help of Champix. I suppose I feel a little less of a person as I tried to quit without aides but to no avail. Champix is working terrifically for me and I have to believe the end result is to be a NON-smoker regardless of how I get there.

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Renata - August 29, 2010, 12:54 pm

January 24, 2009, 6:19 pm

That was my initial post. I haven't smoked still. Not even a puff. Not even a nicorette.

It is one of the best things you can do for yourself. I became fitter, I eat better, I drink more water. I feel 100x happier than I did as a smoker. Yeah, there's still times where you are tempted. But you learn how to just leave that feeling behind and find something else to distract you. People will forget you ever smoked!!! My friends and family now forget I smoked for 12 years!

I wanted to leave you guys with some happiness, because the hard withdrawl does go away. And when you get past the first 3 days,and then the first month, I think you should celebrate it, because it's very hard. I even would get myself a gift once a month that first year, because it was still tough, and from all the money I saved I decided one new thing wouldn't hurt. Don't forget to treat yourself :)

Good luck to all of you ♥

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nick - August 29, 2010, 5:49 pm

it has been a year and 4 days. it can be done... just remember that you smoke to feel normal.. but if you can break the chain of addiction you feel normal eventually without the aid of cigarettes.

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