DeadFish
02-16-2007, 05:48 PM
Hello for the first time and congratulations to all getting this far!!:cool: :cool:
I stumbled across this place while researching side-effects for Chantix and glad I did. I'm 25 days of taking it, and this is day 18 of no smokes. :dizzy:
I can truly appreciate the spirit and verve of you all in not only getting over this horrible addiction, but in transcending the 'quit experience' itself! I'm pulling for you all as much as you pull for every stranger that wanders in here.
I don't always know if the weirdnesses I'm experiencing are the giving up of the drug and habit or another undocumented side effect of Chantix. Regardless, in the pages I've read back, I see you all have had to carry your own 'cross' on this, and I'm determined to as well.
33 years of 2 plus packs a day, and I cannot believe how much I actually think of it in past tense! In my own experience to now, it is not like I really want a smoke, but that in any given instant, I don't want to feel ':eek: like this'.
I've made it to 'day 21' before on patch, wellbutrin, and the American Lung Association programs, but in each had major sleep deprivation, where it was easier to start again than to quietly (or not so quietly) go mad.
When this issue cropped up again, my Dr. started my on Ambien, but even the controlled release only keep me out for about 4-5 hours. :/ Hopefully, this will keep my will up better than in the past.
I wanted to thank everyone once again, for the good will illustrated and spread here, as we also profit from it that merely read and lurk. I'm not always certain lately (in this quit experience) that what I am saying is truly what I mean, but I hope y'all get the drift.
I just know that this time my mantra has been 'Smoking is no longer an option', and I know it in my soul.
Now, how long until my body gets convinced???;)
I know it will work out as there are a whole bunch out there who've walked this path before. The thing that will keep me quit will be that I never want to have to walk it again!!
You all take care, and I'm sure we'll be chattin'. :)
Best Regards,
DeadFish
I stumbled across this place while researching side-effects for Chantix and glad I did. I'm 25 days of taking it, and this is day 18 of no smokes. :dizzy:
I can truly appreciate the spirit and verve of you all in not only getting over this horrible addiction, but in transcending the 'quit experience' itself! I'm pulling for you all as much as you pull for every stranger that wanders in here.
I don't always know if the weirdnesses I'm experiencing are the giving up of the drug and habit or another undocumented side effect of Chantix. Regardless, in the pages I've read back, I see you all have had to carry your own 'cross' on this, and I'm determined to as well.
33 years of 2 plus packs a day, and I cannot believe how much I actually think of it in past tense! In my own experience to now, it is not like I really want a smoke, but that in any given instant, I don't want to feel ':eek: like this'.
I've made it to 'day 21' before on patch, wellbutrin, and the American Lung Association programs, but in each had major sleep deprivation, where it was easier to start again than to quietly (or not so quietly) go mad.
When this issue cropped up again, my Dr. started my on Ambien, but even the controlled release only keep me out for about 4-5 hours. :/ Hopefully, this will keep my will up better than in the past.
I wanted to thank everyone once again, for the good will illustrated and spread here, as we also profit from it that merely read and lurk. I'm not always certain lately (in this quit experience) that what I am saying is truly what I mean, but I hope y'all get the drift.
I just know that this time my mantra has been 'Smoking is no longer an option', and I know it in my soul.
Now, how long until my body gets convinced???;)
I know it will work out as there are a whole bunch out there who've walked this path before. The thing that will keep me quit will be that I never want to have to walk it again!!
You all take care, and I'm sure we'll be chattin'. :)
Best Regards,
DeadFish
Sponsor
KConnolly
02-16-2007, 06:50 PM
Congratulations on your quit Deadfish and welcome to this message board!!!
I too am 30 days of taking Chantix, and this is my 19th day of no smokes after 30 years of smoking over two packs a day. I don't know about you, but I am really looking forward to this being a success story that lasts the rest of my life. I am flat out tired of smoking and could not believe how expensive it became.
I thought your description of Chantix "lab-rat" was pretty funny. However I had a slightly different take on it. After 30 years of smoking I was beginning to feel like an old Nicotine "lab-rat". Both the addiction and 30 years of nicotine's effects on your body is pure torture. I'll bet "lab-rats" get treated better than that. Any way, that was one rat race I was glad to be rid of... ;)
I did quite a bit of research on Chantix before starting myself. With the exception of Wellbutrin, (which seems to make people jumpy and crabby all the time,) all the other options involved Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT). None of the NRT remedies enjoyed a very high rate of success, rather they continued to feed the addiction with more nicotine. I would NOT quit cold turkey - that seemed like having dental surgery without the Novocaine. (Just like the old days - forget that...)
So I figured, why not get something else to help this quit be successful, last forever, and be less painful. My physician jumped for joy when I asked her about Chantix. Seems she had nine other patients that all quit successfully with it. She had the prescription filled on a Friday night between 5:00pm - 5:45pm. Honest, I've never seen a prescription filled that fast in all my life. Go figure...
Any way, Chantix has fully met, if not exceeded, my expectations. I still can't believe I quit smoking. It's not a miracle drug. It simply helped me to quit all on my own. I really thought it would be a lot harder to do, but it wasn't too bad at all.
You really hit the nail on the head when you stated "I know it will work out as there are a whole bunch out there who've walked this path before. The thing that will keep me quit will be that I never want to have to walk it again!!". I can really "own" that statement you made. I never want to go through another quit ever again.
To be honest with you, I really kind'a like not smoking any more. It really ran my life for me. Want to visit a store - gotta stand outside and have a smoke first. Eating dinner at a no-smoking restaurant with friends - gotta sneak out several times for a smoke. Making dinner was a real joke. Slice a tomato - have a smoke. Cut up some lettuce - have a smoke. Slice up an onion - have a smoke. 60 minutes to make a lousy salad and you haven't even started to make the main course yet. Sheesh...
Congratulations Deadfish, we're all rooting for you!!! Feel free to visit often and please keep in touch!!!
I too am 30 days of taking Chantix, and this is my 19th day of no smokes after 30 years of smoking over two packs a day. I don't know about you, but I am really looking forward to this being a success story that lasts the rest of my life. I am flat out tired of smoking and could not believe how expensive it became.
I thought your description of Chantix "lab-rat" was pretty funny. However I had a slightly different take on it. After 30 years of smoking I was beginning to feel like an old Nicotine "lab-rat". Both the addiction and 30 years of nicotine's effects on your body is pure torture. I'll bet "lab-rats" get treated better than that. Any way, that was one rat race I was glad to be rid of... ;)
I did quite a bit of research on Chantix before starting myself. With the exception of Wellbutrin, (which seems to make people jumpy and crabby all the time,) all the other options involved Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT). None of the NRT remedies enjoyed a very high rate of success, rather they continued to feed the addiction with more nicotine. I would NOT quit cold turkey - that seemed like having dental surgery without the Novocaine. (Just like the old days - forget that...)
So I figured, why not get something else to help this quit be successful, last forever, and be less painful. My physician jumped for joy when I asked her about Chantix. Seems she had nine other patients that all quit successfully with it. She had the prescription filled on a Friday night between 5:00pm - 5:45pm. Honest, I've never seen a prescription filled that fast in all my life. Go figure...
Any way, Chantix has fully met, if not exceeded, my expectations. I still can't believe I quit smoking. It's not a miracle drug. It simply helped me to quit all on my own. I really thought it would be a lot harder to do, but it wasn't too bad at all.
You really hit the nail on the head when you stated "I know it will work out as there are a whole bunch out there who've walked this path before. The thing that will keep me quit will be that I never want to have to walk it again!!". I can really "own" that statement you made. I never want to go through another quit ever again.
To be honest with you, I really kind'a like not smoking any more. It really ran my life for me. Want to visit a store - gotta stand outside and have a smoke first. Eating dinner at a no-smoking restaurant with friends - gotta sneak out several times for a smoke. Making dinner was a real joke. Slice a tomato - have a smoke. Cut up some lettuce - have a smoke. Slice up an onion - have a smoke. 60 minutes to make a lousy salad and you haven't even started to make the main course yet. Sheesh...
Congratulations Deadfish, we're all rooting for you!!! Feel free to visit often and please keep in touch!!!
SanyBelle
02-16-2007, 11:28 PM
I'm 25 days of taking it, and this is day 18 of no smokes. :dizzy: Congratulations DeadFish, what a great decision to quit smoking! :blob_fire :blob_fire :blob_fire I used the patch, I didn't use Chantix but still like to cheer you all on! Good luck and keep coming back and letting us know how you are doing! :)
Memaw649
02-17-2007, 03:12 AM
Deadfish,
Welcome to you!!
18 days smokefree.....wonderful accomplishment!!
What weirdness are you talking about? How are you feeling?
Here are the most common Chantix side effects:
headache, sleep problems, insomnia, unusual dreams, nausea, stomach pain, indigestion, vomiting, constipation, gas, weakness, tired feeling, increased appitite, unpleasant taste in your mouth.
And here are the most common nictoine withdrawal symptoms:
irritability, mood swings, restlessness, insomnia,
fatigue, inability to concentrate, sore throat, cough,
congestion, headache, increased appetite,
constipation, gas, stomach pain
dry mouth, sore tongue/gums, postnasal drip
tightness in the chest
I love that you found my favorite saying: Smoking is no longer an option!
It works, doesn't it? You keep telling yourself that.
Good Luck to you and please stop back and let us know how you are doing. Keep us updated on your progress to becoming a non smoker.
Memaw
Welcome to you!!
18 days smokefree.....wonderful accomplishment!!
What weirdness are you talking about? How are you feeling?
Here are the most common Chantix side effects:
headache, sleep problems, insomnia, unusual dreams, nausea, stomach pain, indigestion, vomiting, constipation, gas, weakness, tired feeling, increased appitite, unpleasant taste in your mouth.
And here are the most common nictoine withdrawal symptoms:
irritability, mood swings, restlessness, insomnia,
fatigue, inability to concentrate, sore throat, cough,
congestion, headache, increased appetite,
constipation, gas, stomach pain
dry mouth, sore tongue/gums, postnasal drip
tightness in the chest
I love that you found my favorite saying: Smoking is no longer an option!
It works, doesn't it? You keep telling yourself that.
Good Luck to you and please stop back and let us know how you are doing. Keep us updated on your progress to becoming a non smoker.
Memaw
chantypals
02-17-2007, 08:58 AM
Deadfish - I think your quit is terrific and attitude exceptional! I think a whole bunch of the side effects are directly related to quitting. I've been off of chantix now for about two months and some days I can't sleep well or feel light headed, etc. I honestly think it's just our bodies repairing itself and things beginning to work. Dunno what to do with all this extra oxygen!!
paulagizmo
02-17-2007, 01:54 PM
Congratulations Dead Fish! Keep up the good work!
I started 2/9 and quit 2/12 (well I guess 2/11 since that was the last time I had a cigarette). Anyway, I've had the nauseu and a bit of irritation but the weird thing and I haven't read anyone else experiencing it: is getting down right silly/giddy. Seems every day, at least once, something completely cracks me up that it brings tears to my eyes. Other people (if there happen to be any around) think I'm nuts "it wasn't that funny" and/or I'll think back to a 'funny' thing, and yeah, wasn't that funny. Believe me, I'm not complaining. Maybe it's my body's way of releasing underlying anxiety/stress?! Who knows?! What I do know is that Chantix and this board (Memaw, Kevin, Traveller, etc.) are life savers!
I am actually having a tougher time today than all week -- it's been 5 days, 15 hours---don't know if it's normal for Day 5 to be tough or if it's that it's my first Sat. smoke free. So I popped in here and my conviction of quitting as thus be reinforced again! Thanks everyone!
I started 2/9 and quit 2/12 (well I guess 2/11 since that was the last time I had a cigarette). Anyway, I've had the nauseu and a bit of irritation but the weird thing and I haven't read anyone else experiencing it: is getting down right silly/giddy. Seems every day, at least once, something completely cracks me up that it brings tears to my eyes. Other people (if there happen to be any around) think I'm nuts "it wasn't that funny" and/or I'll think back to a 'funny' thing, and yeah, wasn't that funny. Believe me, I'm not complaining. Maybe it's my body's way of releasing underlying anxiety/stress?! Who knows?! What I do know is that Chantix and this board (Memaw, Kevin, Traveller, etc.) are life savers!
I am actually having a tougher time today than all week -- it's been 5 days, 15 hours---don't know if it's normal for Day 5 to be tough or if it's that it's my first Sat. smoke free. So I popped in here and my conviction of quitting as thus be reinforced again! Thanks everyone!
Memaw649
02-18-2007, 04:36 AM
Paula,
They do say that laughter is the best medicine. If that is one of the side effects, that's a new one to me. If anyone says anything to you about it, just tell them it is and then laugh really hard.
Sorry your day wasn't so good. Some days will be like that. Your body has gone through and is still going through some major changes. Just accept that not every day will be easy. But in the long run, it will get easier!
Keep up the good work!!
Memaw
They do say that laughter is the best medicine. If that is one of the side effects, that's a new one to me. If anyone says anything to you about it, just tell them it is and then laugh really hard.
Sorry your day wasn't so good. Some days will be like that. Your body has gone through and is still going through some major changes. Just accept that not every day will be easy. But in the long run, it will get easier!
Keep up the good work!!
Memaw
mangojunky
02-18-2007, 08:01 AM
:wave:
Keep up the good work Paula! Don't worry about what other people think. At least your are silly and not angry!
I am worried about my first weekend smoke free. At work, I can keep myself busy and have only a few hours in the evening to try and occupy myself. Weekends are different, I tend to relax - but I am trying to come up with a plan for that. The kitchen needs to be painted - stuff like that.
Hang in there.......It will get better before you know it.
deb
Keep up the good work Paula! Don't worry about what other people think. At least your are silly and not angry!
I am worried about my first weekend smoke free. At work, I can keep myself busy and have only a few hours in the evening to try and occupy myself. Weekends are different, I tend to relax - but I am trying to come up with a plan for that. The kitchen needs to be painted - stuff like that.
Hang in there.......It will get better before you know it.
deb
DeadFish
02-19-2007, 02:04 AM
Wowwee, you folks rock!!
Many appreciations for welcome, suggestions and good will shared to me.
I've just read through all the other threads hit on since I was here last and there is some great stuff here. I wish that more folks that contemplate quitting could find this place easier and realize that there were good folks pulling for them in very real ways.
I'm gonna try and comment on a few things here, as long as my concentration holds up. This has been a very real issue for me that has been driving me nuts. It is one thing to not have your mind working 100% when you are used to it, but entirely another to KNOW it and not be able to do much about it other than hope that that clears up. I've made some brutal errors in judgement the last few weeks that I personally find embarassing and out of character to my past, but....:confused: "One step after the other" is all I can do sometimes and hope none of it is so dramatic that I cause any major hurt. And here is the 'kicker', that maybe I've always been this way and never slowed down to notice. (You know, us 'quitters' have all this extra time now! ;) )
Paula, your comment about 'giddiness' is a case in point that I find in myself a certain lack of stability that I attribute either to the 'quit' or the Chantix, or a combination. I have to say, KConnolly comment to me that included how everything was paired to a smoke while building a salad...cracked me up almost to tears! Likewise somethings bring me to tears easier.
I don't mind either extreme, when real, but hope I feel more secure 'down the road' about the genuine nature of my feelings.
Appreciate the list of side effects Memaw! The feeling in my chest was/is worrying me, but ultimately I'm a 'poster-child' for most of those lists! Throw in the occassional diarea and the double dose of gas as both the Chantix and withdrawal bring out, and you can figure out I have problems at *both* ends on a regular irritating basis. :eek:
I have to admit, the 'unusual dreams' have been one of the better parts of the ordeal. Besides great adventures, I've had interludes with a lot of friends and family in them some years passed away that helped me smile as I wake to a new day...:angel:
Um, more side effects, itching! Was reading someone's long-term quit notice that dry skin got better. Maybe I'm just being neurotic like my Labrador when he doesn't get to run enough, but I gotta get THERE!
I've never had much appetite oddly and this hasn't changed, but I make myself eat regularly, including breakfast to ease the bounce of the first dose of Chantix. Other dose is taken with supper, even if not 12 hours apart. Can appreciate those that don"t like the tummyache from this stuff!
And if this fun weren't enough, I've broken a molar grinding my teeth the 2nd week and need another crown:(
But STILL it is worth it!!!
Oh yeah, you know I was thinking about the 'side effects' thing that can be more than withdrawal from nicotine or the Chantix. When I tried the nicotine patch, it was NEVER (for me) the same as the 'buzz' I got from a smoke. Given things said in some of the anti-smoking 'propaganda' I had read in the past when they mention all the OTHER chemicals released in a cigarette, I'm sure a lot of us miss them to, even if we can't spell them. ;)
Ayup, I still feel a desire every day, and every day, I've gotten past it. I wish I had a nickle for every time I thought about going and buying some, but don't. I guess I ought to put those nickels in the jar of savings from not buying smokes, eh?
Bought my 2nd month's worth of Chantix, tomorrow is day 21; and I'm gonna set a new world record for how long I've ever gone without burning one!
:blob_fire
Thanks for giving me a place to rant, and the comfortable feeling that I can.
I'm sure I'll do some more soon.
Hang in there everybody!! You long-termers out there that keep coming back and helping us all out are incredible. You other short-termers out there and the folks just thinking 'bout it are looking at perhaps one of the bravest things you have ever done!
The fresh air smells GREAT!!
Best Regards,
DeadFish
Many appreciations for welcome, suggestions and good will shared to me.
I've just read through all the other threads hit on since I was here last and there is some great stuff here. I wish that more folks that contemplate quitting could find this place easier and realize that there were good folks pulling for them in very real ways.
I'm gonna try and comment on a few things here, as long as my concentration holds up. This has been a very real issue for me that has been driving me nuts. It is one thing to not have your mind working 100% when you are used to it, but entirely another to KNOW it and not be able to do much about it other than hope that that clears up. I've made some brutal errors in judgement the last few weeks that I personally find embarassing and out of character to my past, but....:confused: "One step after the other" is all I can do sometimes and hope none of it is so dramatic that I cause any major hurt. And here is the 'kicker', that maybe I've always been this way and never slowed down to notice. (You know, us 'quitters' have all this extra time now! ;) )
Paula, your comment about 'giddiness' is a case in point that I find in myself a certain lack of stability that I attribute either to the 'quit' or the Chantix, or a combination. I have to say, KConnolly comment to me that included how everything was paired to a smoke while building a salad...cracked me up almost to tears! Likewise somethings bring me to tears easier.
I don't mind either extreme, when real, but hope I feel more secure 'down the road' about the genuine nature of my feelings.
Appreciate the list of side effects Memaw! The feeling in my chest was/is worrying me, but ultimately I'm a 'poster-child' for most of those lists! Throw in the occassional diarea and the double dose of gas as both the Chantix and withdrawal bring out, and you can figure out I have problems at *both* ends on a regular irritating basis. :eek:
I have to admit, the 'unusual dreams' have been one of the better parts of the ordeal. Besides great adventures, I've had interludes with a lot of friends and family in them some years passed away that helped me smile as I wake to a new day...:angel:
Um, more side effects, itching! Was reading someone's long-term quit notice that dry skin got better. Maybe I'm just being neurotic like my Labrador when he doesn't get to run enough, but I gotta get THERE!
I've never had much appetite oddly and this hasn't changed, but I make myself eat regularly, including breakfast to ease the bounce of the first dose of Chantix. Other dose is taken with supper, even if not 12 hours apart. Can appreciate those that don"t like the tummyache from this stuff!
And if this fun weren't enough, I've broken a molar grinding my teeth the 2nd week and need another crown:(
But STILL it is worth it!!!
Oh yeah, you know I was thinking about the 'side effects' thing that can be more than withdrawal from nicotine or the Chantix. When I tried the nicotine patch, it was NEVER (for me) the same as the 'buzz' I got from a smoke. Given things said in some of the anti-smoking 'propaganda' I had read in the past when they mention all the OTHER chemicals released in a cigarette, I'm sure a lot of us miss them to, even if we can't spell them. ;)
Ayup, I still feel a desire every day, and every day, I've gotten past it. I wish I had a nickle for every time I thought about going and buying some, but don't. I guess I ought to put those nickels in the jar of savings from not buying smokes, eh?
Bought my 2nd month's worth of Chantix, tomorrow is day 21; and I'm gonna set a new world record for how long I've ever gone without burning one!
:blob_fire
Thanks for giving me a place to rant, and the comfortable feeling that I can.
I'm sure I'll do some more soon.
Hang in there everybody!! You long-termers out there that keep coming back and helping us all out are incredible. You other short-termers out there and the folks just thinking 'bout it are looking at perhaps one of the bravest things you have ever done!
The fresh air smells GREAT!!
Best Regards,
DeadFish
Memaw649
02-19-2007, 02:40 AM
Deadfish,
We do have some wonderful people here, don't we? I think they are the best!!
Your concentration should improve some this next month. And just what are you doing with all that "extra" time? I slept!!:D
I didn't have the strange dreams! I feel deprived!! Me, I had to get the constipation!! Everyone that says they had wonderful, colorful, wacky dreams seems to enjoy them.
Ohhhh...I used to have a black lab. The most wonderful dog I've ever had. I still miss her. Haven't been able to get another dog since.
Uh...I kinda broke one of my teeth too. One in the front!! Grinding, back and forth. I just chipped it a little.:)
The cravings will get better. It took me about 5 months to get to a point where I no longer get daily cravings. Sometimes I can go a whole week. Then that split second thought creeps in my head about smoking a cigarette....then it's gone!!
You're doing good!!!! Keep it up!
Memaw:wave:
We do have some wonderful people here, don't we? I think they are the best!!
Your concentration should improve some this next month. And just what are you doing with all that "extra" time? I slept!!:D
I didn't have the strange dreams! I feel deprived!! Me, I had to get the constipation!! Everyone that says they had wonderful, colorful, wacky dreams seems to enjoy them.
Ohhhh...I used to have a black lab. The most wonderful dog I've ever had. I still miss her. Haven't been able to get another dog since.
Uh...I kinda broke one of my teeth too. One in the front!! Grinding, back and forth. I just chipped it a little.:)
The cravings will get better. It took me about 5 months to get to a point where I no longer get daily cravings. Sometimes I can go a whole week. Then that split second thought creeps in my head about smoking a cigarette....then it's gone!!
You're doing good!!!! Keep it up!
Memaw:wave:
mangojunky
02-19-2007, 08:35 AM
Congrats Deadfish! Tomorrow is my quit day, and I am ready and anxious to get the first week out of the way, because I know it gets easier......
Tomorrow I will be a non-smoker :)
deb
Tomorrow I will be a non-smoker :)
deb
paulagizmo
02-19-2007, 03:40 PM
Paula,
They do say that laughter is the best medicine. If that is one of the side effects, that's a new one to me. If anyone says anything to you about it, just tell them it is and then laugh really hard.
Sorry your day wasn't so good. Some days will be like that. Your body has gone through and is still going through some major changes. Just accept that not every day will be easy. But in the long run, it will get easier!
Keep up the good work!!
Memaw
Thanks Memaw! I don't know what it is but it's certainly a boost in my day! I did survive the w/e. I even went out with friends and drank and although I 'was' the only smoker I thought I'd be going up a tree wanting one but surprisingly I wasn't. I almost didn't go but decided sooner or later I'll face that situation and I read (The Easy Way to Quit Smoking) it's better to face these situations sooner---that way whatever comes up in the future, you know you made it through what normally would be a 'tough' time.
They do say that laughter is the best medicine. If that is one of the side effects, that's a new one to me. If anyone says anything to you about it, just tell them it is and then laugh really hard.
Sorry your day wasn't so good. Some days will be like that. Your body has gone through and is still going through some major changes. Just accept that not every day will be easy. But in the long run, it will get easier!
Keep up the good work!!
Memaw
Thanks Memaw! I don't know what it is but it's certainly a boost in my day! I did survive the w/e. I even went out with friends and drank and although I 'was' the only smoker I thought I'd be going up a tree wanting one but surprisingly I wasn't. I almost didn't go but decided sooner or later I'll face that situation and I read (The Easy Way to Quit Smoking) it's better to face these situations sooner---that way whatever comes up in the future, you know you made it through what normally would be a 'tough' time.
SanyBelle
02-19-2007, 05:56 PM
Deadfish, keep up the great work!! :blob_fire Chantix wasn't out when I quit 9 months ago, I feel like I missed a good time with the dreams, lol!
Mangojunky, here's a few :angel: :angel: :angel: for tomorrow. Good luck!
paulagizmo, congrats on defying the nicodemon this weekend, awesome! :bouncing:
delighted, I love that commercial, I've been so deprived with no Chantix. :eek: :( LOL, can you guys give me a pity party? And I walked 2 miles today, can someone tell me how I can get a sore lower back by walking? :dizzy: :dizzy:
Mangojunky, here's a few :angel: :angel: :angel: for tomorrow. Good luck!
paulagizmo, congrats on defying the nicodemon this weekend, awesome! :bouncing:
delighted, I love that commercial, I've been so deprived with no Chantix. :eek: :( LOL, can you guys give me a pity party? And I walked 2 miles today, can someone tell me how I can get a sore lower back by walking? :dizzy: :dizzy:
SanyBelle
02-19-2007, 09:48 PM
.....but still curious of your physical experience after quitting.delighted, I was "lucky" enough to be on morphine for the first week of my quitting smoking :eek: so that week was fine. :cool: (I was in the hospital with a ruptured appendix and bad infection). I had no plans on quitting but when I got home I decided to try to stay quit. I asked the surgeon to give me a prescription for Wellbutrin and I used that along with the patch. Let's see my physical experience:
I couldn't sleep
I was ALWAYS hungry and gained 15 lbs
My brain was in a fog (but at least I didn't have to work since I was off for another 3 weeks because of surgery)
I actually felt better during month 1 than 3 and 4, but that's probably because I had to go back to work :rolleyes:
I started being able to breath better
I could actually walk up a hill w/o getting winded
I could actually walk up a hill and talk on a cell phone, I couldn't do that before because of all the huffing and puffing
I could sit in an hour meeting at work and not go nuts
My sense of smell vastly improved and let me tell you, this is not always a good thing :D
My cough went away, it's so embarrassing being in a quiet place and trying not to cough
My car smells much better
My house smells much better
My clothes smell much better
I smell much better
I don't have to eat mints all day to try to hide the smoke smell on my breath
I don't have to put smelly lotion on my hands to hide the smell of smoke (These things probably didn't work anyway).
I was able to fly for 4 hours straight w/o wanting a cigarette
I didn't have to worry that I didn't put that last cig of the night out and fear burning down my house
Non-Smoking hotel rooms are so much nicer, hotels put smokers way in the back in smelly crummy rooms
I feel sorry for smokers today, it's not going to get any better for them...
That's all I can think of right now, sorry this is so long and not just physical things. :o
I couldn't sleep
I was ALWAYS hungry and gained 15 lbs
My brain was in a fog (but at least I didn't have to work since I was off for another 3 weeks because of surgery)
I actually felt better during month 1 than 3 and 4, but that's probably because I had to go back to work :rolleyes:
I started being able to breath better
I could actually walk up a hill w/o getting winded
I could actually walk up a hill and talk on a cell phone, I couldn't do that before because of all the huffing and puffing
I could sit in an hour meeting at work and not go nuts
My sense of smell vastly improved and let me tell you, this is not always a good thing :D
My cough went away, it's so embarrassing being in a quiet place and trying not to cough
My car smells much better
My house smells much better
My clothes smell much better
I smell much better
I don't have to eat mints all day to try to hide the smoke smell on my breath
I don't have to put smelly lotion on my hands to hide the smell of smoke (These things probably didn't work anyway).
I was able to fly for 4 hours straight w/o wanting a cigarette
I didn't have to worry that I didn't put that last cig of the night out and fear burning down my house
Non-Smoking hotel rooms are so much nicer, hotels put smokers way in the back in smelly crummy rooms
I feel sorry for smokers today, it's not going to get any better for them...
That's all I can think of right now, sorry this is so long and not just physical things. :o
Memaw649
02-20-2007, 04:30 AM
wailana,
How long has it been now? Is the Chantix working okay for you? Any side effects that you can't handle very well? It's funny, but smoking didn't seem to bother my taste buds. Food taste about the same to me....GOOD. It's either that or all those years of smoking has totally ruined my taste buds. My sense of smell still hasn't returned. I've been told it may never return to normal. I may have done too much damage to it.
Good Luck to you!! Seems you're doing very good with your quit!
Memaw
How long has it been now? Is the Chantix working okay for you? Any side effects that you can't handle very well? It's funny, but smoking didn't seem to bother my taste buds. Food taste about the same to me....GOOD. It's either that or all those years of smoking has totally ruined my taste buds. My sense of smell still hasn't returned. I've been told it may never return to normal. I may have done too much damage to it.
Good Luck to you!! Seems you're doing very good with your quit!
Memaw
wailana
02-20-2007, 11:44 PM
wailana,
How long has it been now? Is the Chantix working okay for you? Any side effects that you can't handle very well? It's funny, but smoking didn't seem to bother my taste buds. Food taste about the same to me....GOOD. It's either that or all those years of smoking has totally ruined my taste buds. My sense of smell still hasn't returned. I've been told it may never return to normal. I may have done too much damage to it.
Good Luck to you!! Seems you're doing very good with your quit!
Memaw
Aloha Memaw! Actually, I'm not on Chantix. I started with Wellbutrin/Zyban and stopped taking the medication about 5 days after taking it. Wellbutrin/Zyban made me too anxious (I'm already an anxious person). It did help me not wanting to smoke. Right now it's been 12 days of smoke free...yippee! I have my cravings here and there. The craving come and go. There are times I think, "How about one?" Then I shrug it off. I've been feeling nauseous right before I sleep. Not sure whether that's part of the withdrawals. After I stopped taking the Wellbutrin, I was constipated for days and also bloated. Right now, I'm still in a brain fog and very tired. Lately, I have been craving some sweet stuff, especially peanut butter cookies and ice cream.
Thanks for checking in on me, Memaw, I really appreciate it.;)
How long has it been now? Is the Chantix working okay for you? Any side effects that you can't handle very well? It's funny, but smoking didn't seem to bother my taste buds. Food taste about the same to me....GOOD. It's either that or all those years of smoking has totally ruined my taste buds. My sense of smell still hasn't returned. I've been told it may never return to normal. I may have done too much damage to it.
Good Luck to you!! Seems you're doing very good with your quit!
Memaw
Aloha Memaw! Actually, I'm not on Chantix. I started with Wellbutrin/Zyban and stopped taking the medication about 5 days after taking it. Wellbutrin/Zyban made me too anxious (I'm already an anxious person). It did help me not wanting to smoke. Right now it's been 12 days of smoke free...yippee! I have my cravings here and there. The craving come and go. There are times I think, "How about one?" Then I shrug it off. I've been feeling nauseous right before I sleep. Not sure whether that's part of the withdrawals. After I stopped taking the Wellbutrin, I was constipated for days and also bloated. Right now, I'm still in a brain fog and very tired. Lately, I have been craving some sweet stuff, especially peanut butter cookies and ice cream.
Thanks for checking in on me, Memaw, I really appreciate it.;)
Memaw649
02-21-2007, 12:02 AM
wailana,
I'm sorry. I knew you had tried the wellbutrin. Just forgot. That happens as you get older.
12 days smoke free!! WOOOHOOO!!!!! Wonderful!
The nausea could very be from the withdrawal. It should be getting better in the next week or two. I read somewhere that the withdrawal symptoms last from one to three weeks, even though the nicotine is out of your system after 3 days. Then your body starts kinda screeming "I WANT IT BACK!!" That's when your willpower is tested. You are coming through with flying colors!!
Good Luck to you!!
Memaw
I'm sorry. I knew you had tried the wellbutrin. Just forgot. That happens as you get older.
12 days smoke free!! WOOOHOOO!!!!! Wonderful!
The nausea could very be from the withdrawal. It should be getting better in the next week or two. I read somewhere that the withdrawal symptoms last from one to three weeks, even though the nicotine is out of your system after 3 days. Then your body starts kinda screeming "I WANT IT BACK!!" That's when your willpower is tested. You are coming through with flying colors!!
Good Luck to you!!
Memaw
mangojunky
02-21-2007, 07:06 AM
Wailana,
Congrats on day 12!! Sorry you aren't feeling that great - but won't it be worth it! How have you been doing with your sweet cravings - hopefully you are treating yourself occasionally!
Keep up the great work!
deb
Congrats on day 12!! Sorry you aren't feeling that great - but won't it be worth it! How have you been doing with your sweet cravings - hopefully you are treating yourself occasionally!
Keep up the great work!
deb
wailana
02-22-2007, 03:34 AM
Wailana,
Congrats on day 12!! Sorry you aren't feeling that great - but won't it be worth it! How have you been doing with your sweet cravings - hopefully you are treating yourself occasionally!
Keep up the great work!
deb
Aloha Deb, I'm treating myself with treats most of the time! Well, I notice myself snacking more than ever. I've been snacking on crackers, cheese and lots of water. I did buy some cookies today, yummy! I think I deserve them. Thanks for checking up on me...:)
Congrats on day 12!! Sorry you aren't feeling that great - but won't it be worth it! How have you been doing with your sweet cravings - hopefully you are treating yourself occasionally!
Keep up the great work!
deb
Aloha Deb, I'm treating myself with treats most of the time! Well, I notice myself snacking more than ever. I've been snacking on crackers, cheese and lots of water. I did buy some cookies today, yummy! I think I deserve them. Thanks for checking up on me...:)
mangojunky
02-22-2007, 06:41 AM
Aloha - I love that! I have a niece and nephew who live in Hawaii - would love to visit them some day. I have never been, but it's top on my list of places to visit.
You DO deserve sweets!
Is it day 14?
deb
You DO deserve sweets!
Is it day 14?
deb
wailana
02-24-2007, 03:52 AM
Aloha - I love that! I have a niece and nephew who live in Hawaii - would love to visit them some day. I have never been, but it's top on my list of places to visit.
You DO deserve sweets!
Is it day 14?
deb
Aloha Deb! I wasn't on the boards yesterday so today is day 15! Yipee!!! I'm happy to hear that Hawaii is on your list. It's totally worth coming. Talk to you soon!:D
You DO deserve sweets!
Is it day 14?
deb
Aloha Deb! I wasn't on the boards yesterday so today is day 15! Yipee!!! I'm happy to hear that Hawaii is on your list. It's totally worth coming. Talk to you soon!:D
mangojunky
02-24-2007, 08:58 AM
Congrats on day 15!!!!!!!!!!:blob_fire
Have a great weekend
deb
Have a great weekend
deb
Skimmer
02-24-2007, 11:15 AM
Wailana - day 15 is awesome! Congrats! Hey - Hawaii? Can we all come and visit? We're non-smokers, by the way, I hope that's okay.....:)
My husband and I got married in Kauai and would love to go back someday. Maybe for our 15 yr anniversary we can start planning for that.
Keep up the good work! 15 days is GREAT :angel:
My husband and I got married in Kauai and would love to go back someday. Maybe for our 15 yr anniversary we can start planning for that.
Keep up the good work! 15 days is GREAT :angel:
SanyBelle
02-24-2007, 11:20 AM
I wasn't on the boards yesterday so today is day 15! Congrats on day 15, that is sooooo wonderful wailana!! :bouncing: :bouncing: Keep up the great work!!!
Skimmer, get a big big jar and put in the money that you and hubby used to spend on cigs.... you'll have that Hawaii trip paid for before you know it!
Skimmer, get a big big jar and put in the money that you and hubby used to spend on cigs.... you'll have that Hawaii trip paid for before you know it!
Skimmer
02-24-2007, 07:16 PM
Dude, the boating was freezing today! Except in the barge canal where the wind died down. How was the beach Traveller? I read you had to keep a towel on all day......guess we're ahead of summer by a few months huh? heheeh - it'll be here soon enough..... Anyways, YEAH - I was thinking how much money we'd saved by not smoking today!! OMG! Two of us NOT smoking - wow! I can't wait to see how that turns out. Not that we couldn't afford smoking - it's funny, the poorest people in the world can still afford that pack of cigs - okay, not really funny - sad. This girl at work, single mom, is very broke, brings PB&J everyday for lunch, but still has money for cigs. Very sad. And her son is only 6 yrs old. I wish I could tell her about Chantix, but I can't because nobody at work knows I smoke!!
Hope everyone had a great Saturday! I'm 45 mins away from being 24 hrs smokefree......kinda silly to keep track by the hour?? I can't help it!! Every hour is an hour gained in my future life.
Hope everyone had a great Saturday! I'm 45 mins away from being 24 hrs smokefree......kinda silly to keep track by the hour?? I can't help it!! Every hour is an hour gained in my future life.
SanyBelle
02-24-2007, 10:44 PM
I'm 45 mins away from being 24 hrs smokefree......kinda silly to keep track by the hour?? I can't help it!! Every hour is an hour gained in my future life.No it's not silly, you do it how you have to... a day at a time, a minute at a time or a second at a time!!! I missed your 24 hour mark, it must be about 30 hours now!! :blob_fire :blob_fire
Yes, the beach was cold... but I got burned, I look like a racoon because I had sunglasses on. :cool:
Yes, the beach was cold... but I got burned, I look like a racoon because I had sunglasses on. :cool:
Skimmer
02-25-2007, 09:59 AM
Okay - so it's Sunday morning and guess what???
1 day, 13 hours, 56 minutes, 35 seconds Smokefree!! Doing good and feeling great. Going to read the Sunday paper and have a big omellette for breakfast. And do some more cleaning, if there's anything left. OH yeah, I was going to plant some flowers out front too. How's everyone else doing?
1 day, 13 hours, 56 minutes, 35 seconds Smokefree!! Doing good and feeling great. Going to read the Sunday paper and have a big omellette for breakfast. And do some more cleaning, if there's anything left. OH yeah, I was going to plant some flowers out front too. How's everyone else doing?
maryber
02-25-2007, 11:33 AM
Skimmer,
Congrats! Each day gets easier!
How I would love to do some gardening!! Here in new york we are bracing for another snow storm!!! uuughhhh, too early to tell but starting the afternoon we are getting at least 7 inches of snow, maybe more.
I have been quit for 2 Weeks, 4 Days, 17 hours, 16 minutes and 52 seconds (18 days). I have saved $77.21 by not smoking 280 cigarettes. I have saved 23 hours and 20 minutes of my life. My Quit Date: 2/6/2007 5:15 PM
Congrats! Each day gets easier!
How I would love to do some gardening!! Here in new york we are bracing for another snow storm!!! uuughhhh, too early to tell but starting the afternoon we are getting at least 7 inches of snow, maybe more.
I have been quit for 2 Weeks, 4 Days, 17 hours, 16 minutes and 52 seconds (18 days). I have saved $77.21 by not smoking 280 cigarettes. I have saved 23 hours and 20 minutes of my life. My Quit Date: 2/6/2007 5:15 PM
Skimmer
02-25-2007, 01:04 PM
Maryber! Congrats on your no-smoking milestone. That's awesome! :) Yeah, it's pretty nice outside here today - shorts weather, sorry about your snow, I don't know how you people do it! I guess that's why we have so many transplants moving down here to Florida. Guess I shouldn't brag about my weather. Um, it's really hot outside and sticky, the humidity is horrible and my hair - forget it, bad hairdays are everyday. And we have bugs and cockroaches so big, they'll carry you away!! And you wanna talk about big? You should see some of the alligators we have! And did you know that Florida is the shark capital of the world? hehehehe - did that scare anybody away? And I won't even talk about the hurricanes of 2004! My pool screen and roof shingles are still NOT fixed from that.
Tomorrow is going to be a tough day - going back to work, and the routine, and the smoking habits of before work, and right after work. I'll have to be strong and change my routine a bit. Being alone tomorrow night will be real test for me. I'll probably be online the whole time to not think about smoking!
Have a great Sunday everyone....
Tomorrow is going to be a tough day - going back to work, and the routine, and the smoking habits of before work, and right after work. I'll have to be strong and change my routine a bit. Being alone tomorrow night will be real test for me. I'll probably be online the whole time to not think about smoking!
Have a great Sunday everyone....
Raymatt
02-25-2007, 01:56 PM
Skimmer
Congratulations!!! Way to go, everyday gets better. The Chantix will help a lot. You will have some work to do but it will become more manageable everyday and it is totally worth the effort.
Continued success with your quit.
Ray
D31
Congratulations!!! Way to go, everyday gets better. The Chantix will help a lot. You will have some work to do but it will become more manageable everyday and it is totally worth the effort.
Continued success with your quit.
Ray
D31
Karen1711
02-25-2007, 02:57 PM
Maryber! Congrats on your no-smoking milestone. That's awesome! :) Yeah, it's pretty nice outside here today - shorts weather, sorry about your snow, I don't know how you people do it! I guess that's why we have so many transplants moving down here to Florida. Guess I shouldn't brag about my weather. Um, it's really hot outside and sticky, the humidity is horrible and my hair - forget it, bad hairdays are everyday. And we have bugs and cockroaches so big, they'll carry you away!! And you wanna talk about big? You should see some of the alligators we have! And did you know that Florida is the shark capital of the world? hehehehe - did that scare anybody away? And I won't even talk about the hurricanes of 2004! My pool screen and roof shingles are still NOT fixed from that.
Tomorrow is going to be a tough day - going back to work, and the routine, and the smoking habits of before work, and right after work. I'll have to be strong and change my routine a bit. Being alone tomorrow night will be real test for me. I'll probably be online the whole time to not think about smoking!
Have a great Sunday everyone....
You're doing great, Skimmer! I was also very anxious about going back to work and all the other routine things that always required a cigarette. I have to say that it was so surprising that it hardly bothered me! It's like I am brain washed with the Chantix. I see other people smoking at work and I don't even consider smoking with them. The only time it really bothered me was when I was on the phone with a friend and I missed it...we can talk for over an hour and I always smoked 2 or 3 cigs. Another big test was going out to eat this weekend...you know how you always want that after dinner cig and maybe even one while you wait for your food? Such a pleasant surprise...hardly thought about the fact that it was part of the routine.
Everyone keep up the good work...we can get through this with each other's help.
Karen(2 weeks, 4 hrs, 38 min, 20 sec=Smoke Free!)
Tomorrow is going to be a tough day - going back to work, and the routine, and the smoking habits of before work, and right after work. I'll have to be strong and change my routine a bit. Being alone tomorrow night will be real test for me. I'll probably be online the whole time to not think about smoking!
Have a great Sunday everyone....
You're doing great, Skimmer! I was also very anxious about going back to work and all the other routine things that always required a cigarette. I have to say that it was so surprising that it hardly bothered me! It's like I am brain washed with the Chantix. I see other people smoking at work and I don't even consider smoking with them. The only time it really bothered me was when I was on the phone with a friend and I missed it...we can talk for over an hour and I always smoked 2 or 3 cigs. Another big test was going out to eat this weekend...you know how you always want that after dinner cig and maybe even one while you wait for your food? Such a pleasant surprise...hardly thought about the fact that it was part of the routine.
Everyone keep up the good work...we can get through this with each other's help.
Karen(2 weeks, 4 hrs, 38 min, 20 sec=Smoke Free!)
Skimmer
02-25-2007, 03:10 PM
Thanks Karen for your post and encouragement and relating your experience with us. That sounds great - not even thinking about it and seeing others smoking and not letting it bother me. I haven't left the house since I quit, except for a boat ride yesterday, so I thought about running to Target and buying some plants to plant out front. But then I thought, well, the 1st thing I usually do when I get back home is have a cig! So maybe I'll try going to the store and see what happens. Yeah the restaurant thing is no biggie for me - I hated smoking before, during and after meals, and we don't eat out much, so I'm good there. It's the doing projects and cleaning and taking a break - and wanting the reward afterwards - guess I might need to break open that bag of carrot sticks in the fridge. I bought 2 lbs of them!! I can't believe how much time I used to waste smoking freakin cigarettes! The whole weekend would go by, and I got nothing done but smoking!! :D
maryber
02-25-2007, 07:02 PM
Skimmer,
I also made my quit day when I was at home for 3 days so I was worried about going to work too, I felt like I needed those smoke breaks just to get away from "the crazyness" so I thought I was going to have a really hard time with that but much to my surprise, it was not bad at all. I even have 2-3 girls that I used to go outside with to smoke and they just resumed going without me. Sometimes I went with them just to still "get away" but I'm not sure everyone would be able to do that..... I certainly didnt do that on my first or second quit days. Good luck with work tomorrow!
I also made my quit day when I was at home for 3 days so I was worried about going to work too, I felt like I needed those smoke breaks just to get away from "the crazyness" so I thought I was going to have a really hard time with that but much to my surprise, it was not bad at all. I even have 2-3 girls that I used to go outside with to smoke and they just resumed going without me. Sometimes I went with them just to still "get away" but I'm not sure everyone would be able to do that..... I certainly didnt do that on my first or second quit days. Good luck with work tomorrow!
SanyBelle
02-25-2007, 07:04 PM
1 day, 13 hours, 56 minutes, 35 seconds Smokefree!! Congrats Skimmer!!! you have almost 2 days!! :bouncing: Keep going! Doing great here Skimmer, we went to the Marti Gras (sp) in Cocoa Village today. Don't they know that MG was over on Tuesday?? :eek: btw, I have a great screen person, but I probably can't post his name here. :nono:
I have been quit for 2 Weeks, 4 Days, 17 hours, 16 minutes and 52 seconds (18 days). I have saved $77.21 by not smoking 280 cigarettes. I have saved 23 hours and 20 minutes of my life. My Quit Date: 2/6/2007 5:15 PMmaryber, that is awesome :blob_fire :blob_fire , can you notice that you are already breating better??? And yes, the Central Florida weather was really terrible today. :dizzy: :cool: (liar, liar, pants on fire LOL).
Karen(2 weeks, 4 hrs, 38 min, 20 sec=Smoke Free!)Wonderful Karen!! :blob_fire :blob_fire How are you feeling after being quit for 2 weeks? Pretty good, huh? Keep up the great job!!! :angel:
I have been quit for 2 Weeks, 4 Days, 17 hours, 16 minutes and 52 seconds (18 days). I have saved $77.21 by not smoking 280 cigarettes. I have saved 23 hours and 20 minutes of my life. My Quit Date: 2/6/2007 5:15 PMmaryber, that is awesome :blob_fire :blob_fire , can you notice that you are already breating better??? And yes, the Central Florida weather was really terrible today. :dizzy: :cool: (liar, liar, pants on fire LOL).
Karen(2 weeks, 4 hrs, 38 min, 20 sec=Smoke Free!)Wonderful Karen!! :blob_fire :blob_fire How are you feeling after being quit for 2 weeks? Pretty good, huh? Keep up the great job!!! :angel:
Skimmer
02-25-2007, 09:23 PM
Hey Traveller! How was Mardi Gras anyways? I forgot all about it being this weekend, course "not smoking" has been my focus all weekend. I went to Target and did fine, didn't want a cig when I came back home, which is good.
We're not ready for screens just yet - we're gonna probably do a roof first and windows and painting, oh dear that's a lot of work!
P.S. I am 2 days already!! WOO HOO!!
I have been quit for 2 Days, 1 hour, 22 minutes and 52 seconds (2 days). I have saved $3.08 by not smoking 20 cigarettes. I have saved 1 hour and 40 minutes of my life. My Quit Date: 2/23/2007 7:00 PM
We're not ready for screens just yet - we're gonna probably do a roof first and windows and painting, oh dear that's a lot of work!
P.S. I am 2 days already!! WOO HOO!!
I have been quit for 2 Days, 1 hour, 22 minutes and 52 seconds (2 days). I have saved $3.08 by not smoking 20 cigarettes. I have saved 1 hour and 40 minutes of my life. My Quit Date: 2/23/2007 7:00 PM
SanyBelle
02-25-2007, 11:22 PM
P.S. I am 2 days already!! WOO HOO!!Congrats on the 2 days!!! :blob_fire :blob_fire
Marti Gras was okay, I've never been there before, it was more like a children's carnival... but they had a dog show and I loved all the dogs!!!
Keep being a quitter and good luck at work tomorrow! :angel:
Marti Gras was okay, I've never been there before, it was more like a children's carnival... but they had a dog show and I loved all the dogs!!!
Keep being a quitter and good luck at work tomorrow! :angel:
mangojunky
02-26-2007, 06:46 AM
EXCELLENT JOB SKIMMER!
Keep up the great work - one day at a time :)
deb
Keep up the great work - one day at a time :)
deb