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Community => Introductions => Topic started by: Thefranks5 on June 03, 2020, 11:51:58 AM

Title: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on June 03, 2020, 11:51:58 AM
Today is day 90 nicotine free after 30 years of abuse. For the past month I have had severe anxiety and depression issues which I seem to be able to control. The bigger issue is I still feel like garbage with nasty taste in mouth at times, sore throat that comes and goes, upset stomach, etc all the classic first month symptoms. I do realize that some of the other people have these symptoms longer then others but it is really wiping me out. Doctors have no clue so no sense going there for answers. This website has provided almost all answers and it is sooooo nice to hear it from a fellow quitter. I guess I need reassurance that this will pass also. This is the farthest I have ever gone in all my quits and I will win this battle. The same garbage feeling day after day is huge reason people fail for which I had done 14 years ago. I just need that kick in the pants to keep me going from all you older quitters. Sorry for the long rant but without our support groups we are nothing. God bless to all and keep up the fight.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: SmokeyMountainExpress on June 03, 2020, 01:24:54 PM
I am at 205 days and my throat still bugs me from time to time, but it is nothing close to what it was at 90 days.  For me in seems like my throat will have problems for a couple of weeks, and then it will subside for a couple weeks just to come back again.  Every time it comes back the anxiety, and strength of the annoyance lessens.  I went to the doctor as well, and they couldn't find anything medically wrong with me, so ill just keep quit and let my body to continue to heal.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: MN_Engineer on June 03, 2020, 01:37:28 PM
I understand the physical issues can be concerning and cause anxiety and stress. And while 90 days is awesome, it's a drop in the bucket compared to 30 years of nicotine use.

Stay the course. Keep focusing one day at a time. As your body heals and learns to function without the poison of nicotine, you will start to experience a new normal. For some it takes a bit longer than others. Perseverance is key here and I commend you for creating an intro to share your frustrations. I encourage you to continue to log your experience in your intro and in time you will really see the progress you've made.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: DonkeyMN on June 03, 2020, 04:11:03 PM
I understand the physical issues can be concerning and cause anxiety and stress. And while 90 days is awesome, it's a drop in the bucket compared to 30 years of nicotine use.

Stay the course. Keep focusing one day at a time. As your body heals and learns to function without the poison of nicotine, you will start to experience a new normal. For some it takes a bit longer than others. Perseverance is key here and I commend you for creating an intro to share your frustrations. I encourage you to continue to log your experience in your intro and in time you will really see the progress you've made.

Drink more water, get exercise and let your heart and kidneys start working for you.  Take back your life.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on June 03, 2020, 05:18:54 PM
Thanks for the response. It gets very aggravating and scary for me. I keep saying to my awesome wife that I have no clue what the new normal is supposed to feel like. I have found a few ways with dealing with anxiety but still working on the depression. I wanted to do this with no prescription help just to prove to myself and the world it can be done. So the patches, chantix and lexapro are still setting in their respective containers unused which the doc office was very surprised about.  The depression with the sore throat just runs me into a nasty hole thinking that it is to late and the big c word is here. Which is weird as I never had throat issues before but I do now. My wife agrees that it is my body healing itself but I need a lip of something (cures the anxiety and helps the depression) so I use smokey mountain and baccoff. But the cayene pepper in smokey mountain and whatever causes the heat in bacoff aggravates my throat and mouth. So we agree that I could easily be causing unneeded throat issues. Now to find something that could fill that gap. I personally want to thank everybody on this site for your help wether you actually responded to me or just that you had a comment somewhere that was helpful. We will win this battle and it will make me a better man, husband and father. God bless every one of you.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: MN_Engineer on June 03, 2020, 10:03:41 PM
Thanks for the response. It gets very aggravating and scary for me. I keep saying to my awesome wife that I have no clue what the new normal is supposed to feel like. I have found a few ways with dealing with anxiety but still working on the depression. I wanted to do this with no prescription help just to prove to myself and the world it can be done. So the patches, chantix and lexapro are still setting in their respective containers unused which the doc office was very surprised about.  The depression with the sore throat just runs me into a nasty hole thinking that it is to late and the big c word is here. Which is weird as I never had throat issues before but I do now. My wife agrees that it is my body healing itself but I need a lip of something (cures the anxiety and helps the depression) so I use smokey mountain and baccoff. But the cayene pepper in smokey mountain and whatever causes the heat in bacoff aggravates my throat and mouth. So we agree that I could easily be causing unneeded throat issues. Now to find something that could fill that gap. I personally want to thank everybody on this site for your help wether you actually responded to me or just that you had a comment somewhere that was helpful. We will win this battle and it will make me a better man, husband and father. God bless every one of you.
@Thefranks5 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17642) remember KTC is a no nicotine site. That means nicotine in ANY form is strictly prohibited which includes gum and patches. I suggest you have your wife dispose of the patches somewhere away from your house. That is too big of a temptation to have around.

If Smokey Mountain and Baccoff aren't working for you, there are other no-nic substitutes like Jake's Mint Chew, Grinds and Teaza. Jake's and Teaza are tea leaf based and Grinds are basically ground up coffee in pouches. Check them out.

Keep up the good fight. Each minute your blood runs free of nicotine is a victory. Check out this little bit I wrote (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?topic=15929.0) a while back concerning "progress" when it comes to being quit. It may help you out.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on June 04, 2020, 06:22:41 AM
Thank you for the pick me up. I have absolutely no desire to return therefore it almost seems the struggle is harder. Good idea to to remove all nicotine from my house. I literally looked at the patches and said pound sand. There are too many side effects with chantix and lexapro to even think of using them. Needing a lipful is just another excuse to keep me close to the old days when I chewed according to my wife, oh she is good at this and thats why I love her so. I went 90 days with only a handful of people knowing but now anybody thats a friend on facebook knows. Adds to the accountability as I was sure to fail but now my support group just got amazingly big. Thanks again and I will keep piling up the days of no nicotine. God bless all my supporters.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Keith0617 on June 04, 2020, 08:07:30 AM
Thank you for the pick me up. I have absolutely no desire to return therefore it almost seems the struggle is harder. Good idea to to remove all nicotine from my house. I literally looked at the patches and said pound sand. There are too many side effects with chantix and lexapro to even think of using them. Needing a lipful is just another excuse to keep me close to the old days when I chewed according to my wife, oh she is good at this and thats why I love her so. I went 90 days with only a handful of people knowing but now anybody thats a friend on facebook knows. Adds to the accountability as I was sure to fail but now my support group just got amazingly big. Thanks again and I will keep piling up the days of no nicotine. God bless all my supporters.
@Thefranks5 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17642)  great job. Suggest you work hard on just quitting for today. Don’t worry about tomorrow. We will deal with that when it comes. Reach out if I can help.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: snahsorg on June 04, 2020, 11:35:30 PM
Let's talk about your throat. I will preface this by telling you that I am not a doctor. However, I have had an adventure learning about my throat since quitting 654 days ago.

Whether you were a spitter or gutter, 30 years of dipping has to have some ramifications on your throat, right? I read somewhere that dipping changes the pH of your mouth. That article did not say whether your mouth returns to its pre-dipping pH at some point after quitting.

Do you have allergies? Do you have post nasal drip? Do you ever have bouts with tonsil stones? I can say yes to all 3 of these, and to this day they all make my throat hurt at times. They aren't linked to smokeless tobacco use either, at least in anything I have read.

Since quitting dip, do you find yourself drinking more coffee, soda, or other acidic beverages? I never really drank coffee until I quit dip. Then I drank 2-4 cups throughout the day and it wrecked my throat even more. After a while I quit drinking coffee, and my throat improved some.

Do you have acid reflux, or perhaps silent reflux? Caffeine can attribute to it too. Silent usually is not painful and comes with a feeling of something stuck in your throat. Medical articles call this a "globus" feeling or something like that. I had this and still get it every now and then.

I would recommend going to the doctor and getting checked out. They can't empathize with what you're going through, but they can check you for mouth, throat, neck, lymph node, etc. cancer. A clean bill of health lifts half the weight off your shoulders.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on June 05, 2020, 03:19:56 PM
Let me start by saying thanks again. I smoked for 10 years and then chewed either grizzly natural or copenhagen For 20 so I did seem to use the worst of the worst. My throat issues started about six weeks in to my quit and at 92 days now. My coffee intake hasn’t changed. About 2-3 cups in morning then another pick me up in afternoon. I have started to pound the bigs punkin seeds and trident spearmint gum. I have used smokey mountain classic, wintergreen and baccoff natural but have found the cayenne pepper does aggravate my mouth and throat. Its been 24 hours since I have used them and today I actually woke up feeling good. I then had a cup of sheetz coffee with my lunch today and got the sore throat and gut pains. As I write this the gut pains are gone but throat still tender and voice is a cracky. I agree on the coffee as my wife keeps telling me how bad it is. Now is a good time to slow that down also and see. I have been to family doctor but haven’t had my throat scoped. Weird how I never had issues until now after my body no longer has the garbage coating everything. I have fall allergies that give me the throat issues but meds would calm them down but it does not touch these symptoms. I have had hay fever and ragweed allergies since I was a kid. I have no desire to go back to tobacco but man now I know why people cave. I keep telling my wife that I am so tired of feeling like shit everyday. Thanks to all for letting me ramble on. Everybody on this site is another part of our support group that we desperately need. I will stay quit forever because it is by the grace of God that I have once again been given another chance to quit and I WILL BEAT THIS DAMN THING. God bless all who are helping and may my words help others.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: MuleMan on June 07, 2020, 07:15:15 AM
Let me start by saying thanks again. I smoked for 10 years and then chewed either grizzly natural or copenhagen For 20 so I did seem to use the worst of the worst. My throat issues started about six weeks in to my quit and at 92 days now. My coffee intake hasn’t changed. About 2-3 cups in morning then another pick me up in afternoon. I have started to pound the bigs punkin seeds and trident spearmint gum. I have used smokey mountain classic, wintergreen and baccoff natural but have found the cayenne pepper does aggravate my mouth and throat. Its been 24 hours since I have used them and today I actually woke up feeling good. I then had a cup of sheetz coffee with my lunch today and got the sore throat and gut pains. As I write this the gut pains are gone but throat still tender and voice is a cracky. I agree on the coffee as my wife keeps telling me how bad it is. Now is a good time to slow that down also and see. I have been to family doctor but haven’t had my throat scoped. Weird how I never had issues until now after my body no longer has the garbage coating everything. I have fall allergies that give me the throat issues but meds would calm them down but it does not touch these symptoms. I have had hay fever and ragweed allergies since I was a kid. I have no desire to go back to tobacco but man now I know why people cave. I keep telling my wife that I am so tired of feeling like shit everyday. Thanks to all for letting me ramble on. Everybody on this site is another part of our support group that we desperately need. I will stay quit forever because it is by the grace of God that I have once again been given another chance to quit and I WILL BEAT THIS DAMN THING. God bless all who are helping and may my words help others.
dude @Thefranks5 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17642) keep blogging it out here. I can tell your an extrovert like me. Good for your soul.

I resonate with the anxiety and depression and mood swings. It’s a bitch to get control of.

Look at it this way. You have radically changed your body by refusing to dose it with nicotine all day every day for decades. Bad news- This is gonna take a long time to heal and rebalance. Good news - there are so many guys here having taken same path and reported success so we’re gonna win with persistence. Best news - if we let go of the anxiety and crushing feelings of potential difficult quit in weeks and months from now and just focus ODAAT it all becomes very manageable. I’m proud to quit with you. Fight hard today and get another win.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on June 07, 2020, 09:24:32 AM
Thanks Muleman, I have always kept my circle of friends small and keep to myself. My wife says I can be very difficult getting close to because of the wall I put up.
But it is by the grace of God that I have another opportunity to correct myself. I pray everyday that I did not wait too long and that the symptoms I feel are just me detoxing and not something sinister. The best thing I have ever done is get right with God, second best is marrying the love of my life and third is quit tobacco. Tobacco is third because without God and my wife tobacco would still be here. I lurked on this site thinking I didn’t need help but boy was I wrong. I am so glad that God steered me to the site as it is now part of the family.  As we all know that God comforts us from heaven but nothing beats the words or voice spoken or sent to us personally. I will be reaching out to those with my digits that have reached out to me. Thank you again for your words of support and as always God bless you brother.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Indrek on June 09, 2020, 05:55:47 AM
Had shitloads of problems with depression first and then with anxiety. For me its pretty much normal now... 200+ days after quit. Oh and its a new normal, way better normal than being nic slave normal. I get some rare anxiety reminders that i can mostly just brush off with ease and those seem to fade away too. I was a pretty heavy user too. Just keep grinding and i promise you will not look back when the good days come.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on June 23, 2020, 06:27:07 PM
Ok, I going to fuss again as I feel like a big wuss. 111 days in and still fighting a throat that goes from feeling like something is caught to it feeling like its on fire. Today is 6/23 and I go to the ent doc on 6/25 so at least I am going. The throat issue comes and goes but it seems never goes away. It went from full on assault (pain like burning, adams apple sore, pain to talk to feeling like muscles are super tense) to almost nothing. Then to go a half on assault with new sinus pains in rear of nostrils that feels like a cold coming on.  I started using flonase to help with allergies which it has, watch my diet and limit caffeine. I know I sound like a wuss but this old man is getting worn out with this stuff. I would be lying if I told you I am not scared to go to the doctor but why was I not scared when I chewed. Why was I not scared to go to the dentist but I am now? Why was I not scared when we I saw the cancer pics? Why was I not scared when my wifes coworkers husband was diagnosed with cancer and had a good amount of his jaw removed. Why was I not scared then but am now? The biggest thing that I would like is to be free of nicotine forever and only going odaat is the way. In the mean time I look to vets for help as they have all been thru this. I pray that all the newbies will find this post and have it help them also. This nasty addiction will not hold me back from reaching more and more days. I quit with you today and I will continue to post roll as long as my fingers and God lets me. God bless all of you and whatever info I receive I will be forever grateful for, thank you.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Keith0617 on June 23, 2020, 06:39:05 PM
Ok, I going to fuss again as I feel like a big wuss. 111 days in and still fighting a throat that goes from feeling like something is caught to it feeling like its on fire. Today is 6/23 and I go to the ent doc on 6/25 so at least I am going. The throat issue comes and goes but it seems never goes away. It went from full on assault (pain like burning, adams apple sore, pain to talk to feeling like muscles are super tense) to almost nothing. Then to go a half on assault with new sinus pains in rear of nostrils that feels like a cold coming on.  I started using flonase to help with allergies which it has, watch my diet and limit caffeine. I know I sound like a wuss but this old man is getting worn out with this stuff. I would be lying if I told you I am not scared to go to the doctor but why was I not scared when I chewed. Why was I not scared to go to the dentist but I am now? Why was I not scared when we I saw the cancer pics? Why was I not scared when my wifes coworkers husband was diagnosed with cancer and had a good amount of his jaw removed. Why was I not scared then but am now? The biggest thing that I would like is to be free of nicotine forever and only going odaat is the way. In the mean time I look to vets for help as they have all been thru this. I pray that all the newbies will find this post and have it help them also. This nasty addiction will not hold me back from reaching more and more days. I quit with you today and I will continue to post roll as long as my fingers and God lets me. God bless all of you and whatever info I receive I will be forever grateful for, thank you.

I faced and a number of other quitters I know faced issues with acid reflux for a while. The doc will take care of you. Try to relax, focus on what you can control, and stay busy. Self diagnosing rarely goes well. Reach out if I can help or you need someone to talk to.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on June 24, 2020, 01:37:09 PM
Just venting so be nice, lol. I can take it yell at me. This anxiety sucks which makes every little pain 1000 times worse. My wife suffers from anxiety issues so I have somebody at home who can relate and now I can relate to her. I am an alarm tech so when I closed a call before I always thru a fatty in for the ride to the next one. Man now some of these attacks seem to go on for hours which has been since I stopped using 112 days ago. This one is going on hour and half now to which my wife can’t relate as hers only last minutes. Now that I recognize the symptoms I can try different ways to get thru them. They don't always work but the best is a fake fatty of baccoff or smokey mountain. Which will also meed to go away as per my wife. So here is a little more info on anxiety for everybody that still suffers from it. Counting the days for anxiety goes away as that makes the throat worse but we are in for the long haul. ODAAT, WUPP and IQWYT. Thank you everybody for the help this far and now I feel compelled to help the newbies. Be strong, be safe and God bless everybody.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: EXBEARHAG on June 24, 2020, 06:49:05 PM
Hey @Thefranks5 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17642)

I never really had major mouth or throat pain so I'm afraid I can't give you much advise on that front.  I believe Smokey Mt responded earlier.  I remember that he had some of those issues.

Anxiety, on the other hand, I can relate to.  Like you I never had anxiety or depression but I watched my wife suffer from time to time.  N ow I know what it means to be anxious.  At 345 days I'm still getting attacks on the mornings I have to work; these attacks, however, are less debilitating than they used to be and seem to be wavering a bit...just a bit but it's something.

I can also relate to feeling like shit for hours...days at a time.  My whole world revolved around nicotine (like many here) and I did not hide my addiction so I did it ALL the time.  For the first ~300 days, I felt a major void in my life and was reminded about my addiction by everything I did.  This made my life practically unbearable for the first 100 days but has gotten incrementally better since. 

Bottom line: the more space and time you put between you and nicotine, the easier this is going to get for you.  It may be almost unnoticeable day to day but as you stack those days things will get easier.  A couple vets have said it below: ODAAT.  This concept was the most important factor in getting me through all those tough days.  Do not allow yourself to think about tomorrow, next week, next year, etc.  If you are scheduled to go to the dentist today, go and make the best of it.  Come what may.  Try not to obsess about things until you have to.  Exercise, sleep, do anything that will keep your mind off of it until you can close your eyes for the night.  WUPP and repeat.  Not easy but simple. 

Lastly, make connections.  As tough as things are, life will probably get tougher (if even for a short period of time) at some point.  You WILL have that Fuck It Crave...eventually.  I've had several of these...even found myself sitting in the C-store lot a couple times in a mental world war with myself.  However, I make my promise early every day and have ~15 KTC contacts in my phone just waiting for when I falter.  I simple SOS text to anyone of them and I know I'll get the advise that I need.  Prior to this quit I did not have this safety net and I failed every time...usually within 3 weeks.  This is what makes KTC different.

Sorry for the diatribe.   I had many thoughts reading through your intro and I think I only made it through a couple of them.  Keep blogging this out here in intros and in your group.  Writing about these things and getting feedback is more valuable to me and my quit than I could describe. 

My digits are in your box.

Holding that line with you my brother, shoulder to shoulder.

~HAG
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on June 24, 2020, 07:14:06 PM
Thanks EXBEARHAG, I was just talking to my wife when I got home that physically I feel about maybe 80%. My throat is a constant issue which went from superbad at about 50 day mark to a constant soreness now but affects my voice. I definitely know that when I get a trigger like today that I posted about it just makes my throat even worse. Then all heck breaks loose but I know the trigger and I can just ride it out but it also wears me out. Today it happened twice and one lasted an hour an half and would have loved a nap afterwards, lol. I told my wife that I can’t recall having any pains when I chewed other then the days I would over do it. The only thing I remember is when jonesing real bad my tongue would feel weird then my mouth and throat would get really dry and no drink would fix it. But if I popped a chew it all would go away and those symptoms did happen for about two weeks when my throat started to really fire up. I guess I am just worried as for tomorrows ent visit just because of 30 years of abuse. I am praying that they find no issues and its all withdrawal related, then I for will be fighting the nic bitch with a new amount of strength. Thanks for your digits and I will store them in my phone so you might hear from me. I tend to type long stories to but if I can help at least one other person then I am getting something done for the good of the world. Thanks again for everybody supporting each other as this fight should not be done alone. Stay strong, stay safe and God bless. 
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: mtrentin on June 25, 2020, 12:51:50 PM
Thefrank5, I recently went to a ENT doc after having similar symptoms and he scoped me and found no problems.  He told me it was likely acid reflux.  Let me know how your visit goes, if you want.  Good luck!
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on June 25, 2020, 01:29:22 PM
As my mom would say after a good report- Praise the Lord, Praise the Lord, Praise the Lord. Had my ent doc visit this morning and he stated my mouth is healing really really well. Confirmed I have sleep apnea throat and mouth but I new that. Scoped my throat and stated I have LPR reflux. Got my prilosec started this morning and scheduled follow up for six weeks. Doc said everything really looked great for abusing myself for 30 years. So now I have a renewed strength to fight this nic demon on even more so now. I want personally everybody who commented, quoted, suggested or yelled at me as every bit helped and I appreciated every bit of it. I am totally terrible with names so it will be very difficult to remember all of you but I pray for all us for strength, guidance and blessings going forward. This is definitely a battle that we will win, ODAAT, IQWYT and NO NICOTINE FOREVER. God bless everybody!!
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: EXBEARHAG on June 26, 2020, 09:41:09 AM
As my mom would say after a good report- Praise the Lord, Praise the Lord, Praise the Lord. Had my ent doc visit this morning and he stated my mouth is healing really really well. Confirmed I have sleep apnea throat and mouth but I new that. Scoped my throat and stated I have LPR reflux. Got my prilosec started this morning and scheduled follow up for six weeks. Doc said everything really looked great for abusing myself for 30 years. So now I have a renewed strength to fight this nic demon on even more so now. I want personally everybody who commented, quoted, suggested or yelled at me as every bit helped and I appreciated every bit of it. I am totally terrible with names so it will be very difficult to remember all of you but I pray for all us for strength, guidance and blessings going forward. This is definitely a battle that we will win, ODAAT, IQWYT and NO NICOTINE FOREVER. God bless everybody!!

 'dance' 

Great news brother.  Keep kicking ass and doing your thing.  Love seeing you guiding younger quitters...will strengthen your own quit more than you know.  Keep it up!
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on July 02, 2020, 10:31:26 AM
Update time. Today 7/2 is one week after going to ent doctor for an 8 week throat issue. I have improved dramatically and now I am able to try and find food and drink that trigger it so they can be eliminated. I put a lengthy post on the site under acid reflux so people have additional knowledge. I would say I am 1000% better between physical and mental symptoms that had affected me. My biggest issue today (120 days) is the crave and oral fixation. Packing your lip for 30 years does not go away any time soon I guess. So its the juggle deal as to what can cure the crave and oral but not trigger reflux. Most fakes have something in it to cause the burn chewers desired. As a long cut guy smokey mountain is my go to but every product has cayenne pepper which really fires my reflux. But I really like the baccoff apple pouches but for the life of me there is something in it that burns to but no clue per ingredients. But we are doing much much much better but man 4 months of feeling like absolute garbage takes it toll on a man. So I am proud to say that I have been nicotine free for 120 days and I will continue that count forever. PTQWYT, NAFAR and ODAAT is the way to be for me. Stay strong, stay safe and may God bless everybody.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on July 09, 2020, 07:22:18 AM
Well time to talk again. Never in my life did I ever think that this addiction would bring me down so bad. I am 127 days in and totally exhausted, mentally and physically. I always look for the silver lining in situations and this one is there but so far out of reach yet. So my throat is better to a point as the level of discomfort comes and goes. Sometimes all I feel is like something is stuck and sometimes everything feels like its burning which bothers my speech. That usually includes my throat, my sinus, my tongue, my mouth all with a slight bitter taste. With these issues it really fires the anxiety and depression plus I drive a lot for my job so there is no way to keep your mind off it. Today I woke up with what feels like a dry mouth issue with weird feeling tongue and back of mouth. At least thats what it feels like and its all classic signs of silent reflux. The ent doctor did not provide anything other then a prescription which is disappointing. So after researching the cure is to lower the acid level in your stomach and maintain it with diet. So if you are diagnosed with this be prepared to stop eating 3/4 of what your used to. I have also read that even after you controlled it per say you will have issues for 2-6 weeks until you heal. So we need to be looking down the road before that can be somewhat better. In the mean time I understand what it can cause your brain to do but remember, did you have these issues before when you constantly was washing yourself with tobacco juice? I didn’t, so we need to stay the course going forward to get thru all the new issues without caving. Caving is not going to fix your issues its just going to make it worse by covering it up. I looked at the older posts to see if I could figure out when this started. I saw 6 weeks in one and 50 days in another so for the last 75 days or so (over 2 months) I have had this issue. When will it stop? I hope as soon as I can get my diet and what I can eat straightened out and stay on it then it can start the repair the damage but the reflux needs to stop first. So anybody out there that has these symptoms look it up and research it and get the proper diet going. This is not going to bring me down and lead me the wrong way. I have come to far to fail and throw it all away. As an exdipper we just want to feel like we did when we dipped. Well for me it will take a while as it has for others. Even though I have a quit date of 3/5 I actually started to wean myself on 2/6. So I have been fighting this battle for 156 days if my math is correct. I can feel the new normal and it is better than the old normal with nicotine. Boy the party it will be when I get all this reflux crap under control though.  This is your quit and YES its personal. You are permanently divorcing yourself from nicotine and I truly believe that its a tool of satan and if you know how he works he will never let go. It will always be there the nagging, the buy me you need me, you can’t live without me and its ok I am what you need. Its been a long uphill battle that will eventually get easier. So stay strong, stay safe and God bless.
P.S. sorry if it seemed I rambled. Its my state of mind, lol.

Promises kept
8/8/98
3/5/20
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: EXBEARHAG on July 10, 2020, 07:00:45 PM
Well time to talk again. Never in my life did I ever think that this addiction would bring me down so bad. I am 127 days in and totally exhausted, mentally and physically. I always look for the silver lining in situations and this one is there but so far out of reach yet. So my throat is better to a point as the level of discomfort comes and goes. Sometimes all I feel is like something is stuck and sometimes everything feels like its burning which bothers my speech. That usually includes my throat, my sinus, my tongue, my mouth all with a slight bitter taste. With these issues it really fires the anxiety and depression plus I drive a lot for my job so there is no way to keep your mind off it. Today I woke up with what feels like a dry mouth issue with weird feeling tongue and back of mouth. At least thats what it feels like and its all classic signs of silent reflux. The ent doctor did not provide anything other then a prescription which is disappointing. So after researching the cure is to lower the acid level in your stomach and maintain it with diet. So if you are diagnosed with this be prepared to stop eating 3/4 of what your used to. I have also read that even after you controlled it per say you will have issues for 2-6 weeks until you heal. So we need to be looking down the road before that can be somewhat better. In the mean time I understand what it can cause your brain to do but remember, did you have these issues before when you constantly was washing yourself with tobacco juice? I didn’t, so we need to stay the course going forward to get thru all the new issues without caving. Caving is not going to fix your issues its just going to make it worse by covering it up. I looked at the older posts to see if I could figure out when this started. I saw 6 weeks in one and 50 days in another so for the last 75 days or so (over 2 months) I have had this issue. When will it stop? I hope as soon as I can get my diet and what I can eat straightened out and stay on it then it can start the repair the damage but the reflux needs to stop first. So anybody out there that has these symptoms look it up and research it and get the proper diet going. This is not going to bring me down and lead me the wrong way. I have come to far to fail and throw it all away. As an exdipper we just want to feel like we did when we dipped. Well for me it will take a while as it has for others. Even though I have a quit date of 3/5 I actually started to wean myself on 2/6. So I have been fighting this battle for 156 days if my math is correct. I can feel the new normal and it is better than the old normal with nicotine. Boy the party it will be when I get all this reflux crap under control though.  This is your quit and YES its personal. You are permanently divorcing yourself from nicotine and I truly believe that its a tool of satan and if you know how he works he will never let go. It will always be there the nagging, the buy me you need me, you can’t live without me and its ok I am what you need. Its been a long uphill battle that will eventually get easier. So stay strong, stay safe and God bless.
P.S. sorry if it seemed I rambled. Its my state of mind, lol.

Promises kept
8/8/98
3/5/20

Hang in there brother.  I admire your courage and fortitude.  Regardless of the cause of your throat/mouth issues, one thing is for sure: worm turds in the lip will not help.  Stay the course my friend.  Continue to lean on folks here for support.  We will get through this together. 

Hold the line yo
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Keith0617 on July 11, 2020, 10:30:33 AM
Well time to talk again. Never in my life did I ever think that this addiction would bring me down so bad. I am 127 days in and totally exhausted, mentally and physically. I always look for the silver lining in situations and this one is there but so far out of reach yet. So my throat is better to a point as the level of discomfort comes and goes. Sometimes all I feel is like something is stuck and sometimes everything feels like its burning which bothers my speech. That usually includes my throat, my sinus, my tongue, my mouth all with a slight bitter taste. With these issues it really fires the anxiety and depression plus I drive a lot for my job so there is no way to keep your mind off it. Today I woke up with what feels like a dry mouth issue with weird feeling tongue and back of mouth. At least thats what it feels like and its all classic signs of silent reflux. The ent doctor did not provide anything other then a prescription which is disappointing. So after researching the cure is to lower the acid level in your stomach and maintain it with diet. So if you are diagnosed with this be prepared to stop eating 3/4 of what your used to. I have also read that even after you controlled it per say you will have issues for 2-6 weeks until you heal. So we need to be looking down the road before that can be somewhat better. In the mean time I understand what it can cause your brain to do but remember, did you have these issues before when you constantly was washing yourself with tobacco juice? I didn’t, so we need to stay the course going forward to get thru all the new issues without caving. Caving is not going to fix your issues its just going to make it worse by covering it up. I looked at the older posts to see if I could figure out when this started. I saw 6 weeks in one and 50 days in another so for the last 75 days or so (over 2 months) I have had this issue. When will it stop? I hope as soon as I can get my diet and what I can eat straightened out and stay on it then it can start the repair the damage but the reflux needs to stop first. So anybody out there that has these symptoms look it up and research it and get the proper diet going. This is not going to bring me down and lead me the wrong way. I have come to far to fail and throw it all away. As an exdipper we just want to feel like we did when we dipped. Well for me it will take a while as it has for others. Even though I have a quit date of 3/5 I actually started to wean myself on 2/6. So I have been fighting this battle for 156 days if my math is correct. I can feel the new normal and it is better than the old normal with nicotine. Boy the party it will be when I get all this reflux crap under control though.  This is your quit and YES its personal. You are permanently divorcing yourself from nicotine and I truly believe that its a tool of satan and if you know how he works he will never let go. It will always be there the nagging, the buy me you need me, you can’t live without me and its ok I am what you need. Its been a long uphill battle that will eventually get easier. So stay strong, stay safe and God bless.
P.S. sorry if it seemed I rambled. Its my state of mind, lol.

Promises kept
8/8/98
3/5/20

Hang in there brother.  I admire your courage and fortitude.  Regardless of the cause of your throat/mouth issues, one thing is for sure: worm turds in the lip will not help.  Stay the course my friend.  Continue to lean on folks here for support.  We will get through this together. 

Hold the line yo
Looking back, quitting has been like riding a wave. Some moments you are in control and others you are fighting just to survive. The key is to just keep fighting and realize the great times become more and more frequent. For most quitters I have talked to, every 100 days quitting really gets better. Doesn’t mean it is easy every day. Challenges still appear. Stay loyal to your routine. Quit one day at a time and let the days add up. Reach out as often as you need to stay quit.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on July 11, 2020, 03:08:53 PM
@Keith0617 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1356)  @EXBEARHAG (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=14879)  @Whatsupsnapper (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17918) The throat issues that I have apparently I have had for years. Its silent reflux which really is the worst of the two refluxes that you can have. They way the pepsin eats away at your throat, mouth, tongue and sinus is very painful. I wish I would have went to the ent doc early in my quit as I could have started the repair and control quicker. Boy what bullheadedness gets us when we fight when we shouldn’t. I am starting to heal and am finding what will reactivate the pepsin in throat area so I don’t eat it. Quite the boring palate for a bit but it is getting better everyday. Now that that issue is known it is allowed my greater focus on my quit and helping others. Helping others as been a huge boost not only for my quit but for my newfound brother in Colorado. As an introvert I was skeptical about sharing digits. But knowing what I know now its the best way to keep your quit strong and on the right path. Thank you for all you have done for everybody and I think (but didn’t verify) that Keith you were the first to challenge me and to which I am forever grateful. I made my promise on 3/5/20 that no more nicotine shall pass thru my veins ever again. Every day I will continue to promise everybody that IQWYT and I am a firm believer in NAFAR. As President Trump has for his campaign slogan “promises made, promises kept” works the same for me. Thank you again for being the leaders and big brothers that all us addicts need. Stay safe, stay strong and God bless you.

Promises kept
8/8/98
3/5/20
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Athan on July 11, 2020, 06:03:15 PM
.... Helping others as been a huge boost not only for my quit but for my newfound brother in Colorado. As an introvert I was skeptical about sharing digits. But knowing what I know now its the best way to keep your quit strong and on the right path. ...
You are wise well beyond your day count brother. Love how you've been battling it out here in your intro. So many try and fail. Success is contagious and it's edifying to see someone win. Keep bogging it out - we're all cheering for you.
Quitting with you today.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: BluManChew on July 11, 2020, 07:08:09 PM
Well time to talk again. Never in my life did I ever think that this addiction would bring me down so bad. I am 127 days in and totally exhausted, mentally and physically. I always look for the silver lining in situations and this one is there but so far out of reach yet. So my throat is better to a point as the level of discomfort comes and goes. Sometimes all I feel is like something is stuck and sometimes everything feels like its burning which bothers my speech. That usually includes my throat, my sinus, my tongue, my mouth all with a slight bitter taste. With these issues it really fires the anxiety and depression plus I drive a lot for my job so there is no way to keep your mind off it. Today I woke up with what feels like a dry mouth issue with weird feeling tongue and back of mouth. At least thats what it feels like and its all classic signs of silent reflux. The ent doctor did not provide anything other then a prescription which is disappointing. So after researching the cure is to lower the acid level in your stomach and maintain it with diet. So if you are diagnosed with this be prepared to stop eating 3/4 of what your used to. I have also read that even after you controlled it per say you will have issues for 2-6 weeks until you heal. So we need to be looking down the road before that can be somewhat better. In the mean time I understand what it can cause your brain to do but remember, did you have these issues before when you constantly was washing yourself with tobacco juice? I didn’t, so we need to stay the course going forward to get thru all the new issues without caving. Caving is not going to fix your issues its just going to make it worse by covering it up. I looked at the older posts to see if I could figure out when this started. I saw 6 weeks in one and 50 days in another so for the last 75 days or so (over 2 months) I have had this issue. When will it stop? I hope as soon as I can get my diet and what I can eat straightened out and stay on it then it can start the repair the damage but the reflux needs to stop first. So anybody out there that has these symptoms look it up and research it and get the proper diet going. This is not going to bring me down and lead me the wrong way. I have come to far to fail and throw it all away. As an exdipper we just want to feel like we did when we dipped. Well for me it will take a while as it has for others. Even though I have a quit date of 3/5 I actually started to wean myself on 2/6. So I have been fighting this battle for 156 days if my math is correct. I can feel the new normal and it is better than the old normal with nicotine. Boy the party it will be when I get all this reflux crap under control though.  This is your quit and YES its personal. You are permanently divorcing yourself from nicotine and I truly believe that its a tool of satan and if you know how he works he will never let go. It will always be there the nagging, the buy me you need me, you can’t live without me and its ok I am what you need. Its been a long uphill battle that will eventually get easier. So stay strong, stay safe and God bless.
P.S. sorry if it seemed I rambled. Its my state of mind, lol.

Promises kept
8/8/98
3/5/20

Hang in there brother.  I admire your courage and fortitude.  Regardless of the cause of your throat/mouth issues, one thing is for sure: worm turds in the lip will not help.  Stay the course my friend.  Continue to lean on folks here for support.  We will get through this together. 

Hold the line yo
Looking back, quitting has been like riding a wave. Some moments you are in control and others you are fighting just to survive. The key is to just keep fighting and realize the great times become more and more frequent. For most quitters I have talked to, every 100 days quitting really gets better. Doesn’t mean it is easy every day. Challenges still appear. Stay loyal to your routine. Quit one day at a time and let the days add up. Reach out as often as you need to stay quit.
Nicely put @Thefranks5 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17642) .  What you said there is a stark realization that quitting is absolute bitch.  Understanding the addiction and understanding that the reptilian desire and slobbering crave we have for nicotine is in direct conflict with what our higher sense of reason instructs us.  That's the mind fuckery.

Higher reason and logic is required to guide ourselves to higher ideals and yet to temper our temporal appetites.

Keep it up, my friend.  Keep your aim and focus on quitting.  It will get better, and understanding that it may not be for another 200 days is going to help.

Anyways...

BMC 1,007
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: 69franx on July 12, 2020, 10:59:30 PM
Not sure if this will help or not @Thefranks5 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17642) , but I had horrible reflux and heartburn for years. Both before and after quitting nicotine. Never diagnosed but I know Zantac eased my pain (now I find out it was laced with carcinogens, lovely). Since March, I have been on a ketogenic diet, eliminating almost all the carbs I used to consume. No bread, no pasta, no beer, no cereal, no rice, and on and on the list of no nos goes. The good news is that now since March second, I have had heartburn and reflux problems at night less than 10 times in 4+ months. I used to pop Zantac daily and usually more than once a day. I called them adult mints, just part of getting by I thought. Eliminating carbs has certainly helped to control my reflux and heartburn issues, just thought I'd share another possibility as you search your diet for the triggers that cause you to flare up
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on July 13, 2020, 07:42:38 AM
Not sure if this will help or not @Thefranks5 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17642) , but I had horrible reflux and heartburn for years. Both before and after quitting nicotine. Never diagnosed but I know Zantac eased my pain (now I find out it was laced with carcinogens, lovely). Since March, I have been on a ketogenic diet, eliminating almost all the carbs I used to consume. No bread, no pasta, no beer, no cereal, no rice, and on and on the list of no nos goes. The good news is that now since March second, I have had heartburn and reflux problems at night less than 10 times in 4+ months. I used to pop Zantac daily and usually more than once a day. I called them adult mints, just part of getting by I thought. Eliminating carbs has certainly helped to control my reflux and heartburn issues, just thought I'd share another possibility as you search your diet for the triggers that cause you to flare up
Thanks for the input @69franx (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=26) I have been working on eliminating foods that are acidic and high fat from my diet. Its a 1000 times better but still get some reflux and still find things that trigger the pepsin in my throat. Just raised my bed so that screwed up my sleep again but I will adapt. I have had people tell me about the keto diet and I am using some of that advice also. The most difficult part is finding what I can eat at this time and still be able to function somewhat normal. Its not like I can stop at a fast food joint or a turkey hill and find something that can be ate without pain. If this is the worst price to pay for divorcing the nic bitch then I accept the pain and discomfort. Love reading your posts and comments and now its my turn to help the newbies as you vets have helped. Have to find out the back story on your name and profile pic. Thanks again and God bless.

Promises kept
8/8/98
3/5/20
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: 69franx on July 13, 2020, 09:28:55 AM
Not sure if this will help or not @Thefranks5 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17642) , but I had horrible reflux and heartburn for years. Both before and after quitting nicotine. Never diagnosed but I know Zantac eased my pain (now I find out it was laced with carcinogens, lovely). Since March, I have been on a ketogenic diet, eliminating almost all the carbs I used to consume. No bread, no pasta, no beer, no cereal, no rice, and on and on the list of no nos goes. The good news is that now since March second, I have had heartburn and reflux problems at night less than 10 times in 4+ months. I used to pop Zantac daily and usually more than once a day. I called them adult mints, just part of getting by I thought. Eliminating carbs has certainly helped to control my reflux and heartburn issues, just thought I'd share another possibility as you search your diet for the triggers that cause you to flare up
Thanks for the input @69franx (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=26) I have been working on eliminating foods that are acidic and high fat from my diet. Its a 1000 times better but still get some reflux and still find things that trigger the pepsin in my throat. Just raised my bed so that screwed up my sleep again but I will adapt. I have had people tell me about the keto diet and I am using some of that advice also. The most difficult part is finding what I can eat at this time and still be able to function somewhat normal. Its not like I can stop at a fast food joint or a turkey hill and find something that can be ate without pain. If this is the worst price to pay for divorcing the nic bitch then I accept the pain and discomfort. Love reading your posts and comments and now its my turn to help the newbies as you vets have helped. Have to find out the back story on your name and profile pic. Thanks again and God bless.

Promises kept
8/8/98
3/5/20
Most of that is in my intro, and there is a link to that in my signature line, check it out when you have time
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Whatsupsnapper on July 13, 2020, 01:02:02 PM
@Keith0617 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1356)  @EXBEARHAG (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=14879)  @Whatsupsnapper (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17918) The throat issues that I have apparently I have had for years. Its silent reflux which really is the worst of the two refluxes that you can have. They way the pepsin eats away at your throat, mouth, tongue and sinus is very painful. I wish I would have went to the ent doc early in my quit as I could have started the repair and control quicker. Boy what bullheadedness gets us when we fight when we shouldn’t. I am starting to heal and am finding what will reactivate the pepsin in throat area so I don’t eat it. Quite the boring palate for a bit but it is getting better everyday. Now that that issue is known it is allowed my greater focus on my quit and helping others. Helping others as been a huge boost not only for my quit but for my newfound brother in Colorado. As an introvert I was skeptical about sharing digits. But knowing what I know now its the best way to keep your quit strong and on the right path. Thank you for all you have done for everybody and I think (but didn’t verify) that Keith you were the first to challenge me and to which I am forever grateful. I made my promise on 3/5/20 that no more nicotine shall pass thru my veins ever again. Every day I will continue to promise everybody that IQWYT and I am a firm believer in NAFAR. As President Trump has for his campaign slogan “promises made, promises kept” works the same for me. Thank you again for being the leaders and big brothers that all us addicts need. Stay safe, stay strong and God bless you.

Promises kept
8/8/98
3/5/20

Thanks for the post! I am forever grateful for this man, I love how the fellowship can bring a person from Colorado and Pa together in a same fight for our lives. 
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on July 14, 2020, 10:22:48 AM
I borrowed this link from @ankape (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=15914) it helps explain some more about the quit and stages https://westcoastrecoverycenters.com/post-acute-withdrawal-syndrome-paws/. This does help as it is relevant to anybody who is addicted. Thanks ankape and yes you are also a huge inspiration to us all.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on July 14, 2020, 09:03:41 PM
Hey everybody, as we continue to get new quitters we need to be reaching out and going into their roll and posting our support. All the vets that have reached out to us we need to pay it forward. Without the vets we would not have got this far. Without the vets calling me out I would not have become a member. This needs to be done on forum and home pages. We need to direct those commenting in the home page to go to the forum. This has made my quit easier, stronger, fulfilling and now I have family across the country. Step up and do your part. This is my challenge to you because we all EMBRACED THE SUCK and if you can to that you can do this. Thats all, I am done. Stay safe, stay strong and God bless as IQWYT.

Promises kept
8/8/98
3/5/20
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on July 15, 2020, 06:43:44 AM
Hey everybody, as we continue to get new quitters we need to be reaching out and going into their roll and posting our support. Just like all the vets that have reached out to us we need to pay it forward. Without the vets we would not have got this far. Without the vets calling me out I would not have become a member. This needs to be done on forum and home pages. We need to direct those commenting in the home page to go to the forum. This has made my quit easier, stronger, fulfilling and now I have family across the country. Step up and do your part. This is my challenge to you because we all EMBRACED THE SUCK and if you can do that you can do this. Thats all, I am done. Stay safe, stay strong and God bless as IQWYT.

Promises kept
8/8/98
3/5/20
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: EXBEARHAG on July 15, 2020, 09:42:50 PM
Hey everybody, as we continue to get new quitters we need to be reaching out and going into their roll and posting our support. Just like all the vets that have reached out to us we need to pay it forward. Without the vets we would not have got this far. Without the vets calling me out I would not have become a member. This needs to be done on forum and home pages. We need to direct those commenting in the home page to go to the forum. This has made my quit easier, stronger, fulfilling and now I have family across the country. Step up and do your part. This is my challenge to you because we all EMBRACED THE SUCK and if you can do that you can do this. Thats all, I am done. Stay safe, stay strong and God bless as IQWYT.

Promises kept
8/8/98
3/5/20
The natural progression of a successful quitter!!  Keep it up brother.  As you know, helping others only solidifies your quit.  No doubt about it.  You keep leading and folks will follow.  Hold the line brother.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on July 15, 2020, 09:43:35 PM
As we go thru our quit sometimes our emotions can get the best of us. Just like our mouth can get us in trouble our fingers will to. Thats why I hardly ever let my fingers loose on social media. I can get really excited about something and it becomes overwhelming. I just can’t leave it alone or slow down. Finally finding a way to control my 30 plus year addiction and have a huge support group to boot is just more than I could imagine. Which leads me to posting things I really should not have.
 I have all the respect in the world for our vets, here and in our beloved military. My dad is a Army vet and my father in law is a wounded Marine vet. I can say I am on the path to being a nicotine vet and proud of it. So I will support all quitters and post where I can but being the type of person I am my words might only make sense to me. Thats just me being the out of control goofball that I am which drives my wife nuts. Just remember, I am here for you as you were for me. You need something let me know in a pm. You want my digits ask in a pm. I needed the help thats why I joined, now I will do my best to pay it back. Good night and God bless.

Promises kept
8/8/98
3/5/20
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: ankape on July 16, 2020, 06:22:52 PM
As we go thru our quit sometimes our emotions can get the best of us. Just like our mouth can get us in trouble our fingers will to. Thats why I hardly ever let my fingers loose on social media. I can get really excited about something and it becomes overwhelming. I just can’t leave it alone or slow down. Finally finding a way to control my 30 plus year addiction and have a huge support group to boot is just more than I could imagine. Which leads me to posting things I really should not have.
 I have all the respect in the world for our vets, here and in our beloved military. My dad is a Army vet and my father in law is a wounded Marine vet. I can say I am on the path to being a nicotine vet and proud of it. So I will support all quitters and post where I can but being the type of person I am my words might only make sense to me. Thats just me being the out of control goofball that I am which drives my wife nuts. Just remember, I am here for you as you were for me. You need something let me know in a pm. You want my digits ask in a pm. I needed the help thats why I joined, now I will do my best to pay it back. Good night and God bless.

Promises kept
8/8/98
3/5/20
You are digging your quit in deep and with that, you will keep your addiction buried. Keep up the strong fight.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on July 18, 2020, 02:11:36 PM
Aaaaah the wonderful days of funk. Just when you start to get going good and feeling great nicci shows up. Nicci your timing sucks and your not welcome here.
Anyway been doing really good, watching my diet and actually lost 5 pounds. I have not have a pepsin attack in my upper GI area since early this week. Throat still sore on the adams apple, tender to talk at times and by golly don’t yawn big as that smarts. Over all I would say things are healing.

Then last night, slept good until 3 am and then the weirdest dreams showed up and were very vivid until 5:30 when I got up. I had not them type in weeks so it really surprised me that they showed. Well now I remember what came with those weird dreams. The dreaded FUNK, boy this is a good one. The sinuses hurt, whole mouth hurts (gums, teeth, roof of mouth) throat hurts, headaches, nausea, grouchiness, feels like I am on an all day hangover and that well known all around garbage feeling. So for all the ones coming into their days over 100 you will have good days and bad days. But as they say and I wear it as a badge of honor and pride- EMBRACE THE SUCK. We need to experience this as it is part of the battle we wage against nicotine. Don’t ever let it get you down, reach out to friends, family and your group. I don’t wish this crap on anybody and having to deal with silent reflux on top of my quit has really taken its toll. But just like when our military goes to battle they plan one step at a time. We do one day at a time which is the only way to fight it. So when your turn comes for feeling the weird funk crap that happens you will need to hitch up your suspenders and ride it out. Its not fun, its not glamorous, its not easy but we did this to ourselves. Now we need to pay the price to become clean. I can think of many worse things to be going thru due to our addiction but if this is the extent if it for me then bring it on nicci!!!
All that we experience has been and for some still is experienced by the vets on KTC. I am forever grateful that they shared their experience with us. Now its our time to help the newbies but also to keep our vets strong. Enough for now but we are good, strong in quit and ready for the challenge. Until next time stay safe, stay strong and God bless.

Promises kept
8/8/98
3/5/20
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on July 18, 2020, 05:20:11 PM
Aaaaah the wonderful days of funk. Just when you start to get going good and feeling great nicci shows up. Nicci your timing sucks and your not welcome here.
Anyway been doing really good, watching my diet and actually lost 5 pounds. I have not have a pepsin attack in my upper GI area since early this week. Throat still sore on the adams apple, tender to talk at times and by golly don’t yawn big as that smarts. Over all I would say things are healing.

Then last night, slept good until 3 am and then the weirdest dreams showed up and were very vivid until 5:30 when I got up. I had not them type in weeks so it really surprised me that they showed. Well now I remember what came with those weird dreams. The dreaded FUNK, boy this is a good one. The sinuses hurt, whole mouth hurts (gums, teeth, roof of mouth) throat hurts, headaches, nausea, grouchiness, feels like I am on an all day hangover and that well known all around garbage feeling. So for all the ones coming into their days over 100 you will have good days and bad days. But as they say and I wear it as a badge of honor and pride- EMBRACE THE SUCK. We need to experience this as it is part of the battle we wage against nicotine. Don’t ever let it get you down, reach out to friends, family and your group. I don’t wish this crap on anybody and having to deal with silent reflux on top of my quit has really taken its toll. But just like when our military goes to battle they plan one step at a time. We do one day at a time which is the only way to fight it. So when your turn comes for feeling the weird funk crap that happens you will need to hitch up your suspenders and ride it out. Its not fun, its not glamorous, its not easy but we did this to ourselves. Now we need to pay the price to become clean. I can think of many worse things to be going thru due to our addiction but if this is the extent if it for me then bring it on nicci!!!
All that we experience has been and for some still is experienced by the vets on KTC. I am forever grateful that they shared their experience with us. Now its our time to help the newbies but also to keep our vets strong. Enough for now but we are good, strong in quit and ready for the challenge. Until next time stay safe, stay strong and God bless.

Promises kept
8/8/98
3/5/20
Boy, some ding a ling needs to proof read better but I typed this before my nap when the funk was at its peak. Had my nap and feel better but just too lazy right now to fix. Hopefully my english teacher buddy in Georgia will laugh. At least I wasn’t one of his students, lol.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: GS9502 on July 19, 2020, 09:55:03 AM
Aaaaah the wonderful days of funk. Just when you start to get going good and feeling great nicci shows up. Nicci your timing sucks and your not welcome here.
Anyway been doing really good, watching my diet and actually lost 5 pounds. I have not have a pepsin attack in my upper GI area since early this week. Throat still sore on the adams apple, tender to talk at times and by golly don’t yawn big as that smarts. Over all I would say things are healing.

Then last night, slept good until 3 am and then the weirdest dreams showed up and were very vivid until 5:30 when I got up. I had not them type in weeks so it really surprised me that they showed. Well now I remember what came with those weird dreams. The dreaded FUNK, boy this is a good one. The sinuses hurt, whole mouth hurts (gums, teeth, roof of mouth) throat hurts, headaches, nausea, grouchiness, feels like I am on an all day hangover and that well known all around garbage feeling. So for all the ones coming into their days over 100 you will have good days and bad days. But as they say and I wear it as a badge of honor and pride- EMBRACE THE SUCK. We need to experience this as it is part of the battle we wage against nicotine. Don’t ever let it get you down, reach out to friends, family and your group. I don’t wish this crap on anybody and having to deal with silent reflux on top of my quit has really taken its toll. But just like when our military goes to battle they plan one step at a time. We do one day at a time which is the only way to fight it. So when your turn comes for feeling the weird funk crap that happens you will need to hitch up your suspenders and ride it out. Its not fun, its not glamorous, its not easy but we did this to ourselves. Now we need to pay the price to become clean. I can think of many worse things to be going thru due to our addiction but if this is the extent if it for me then bring it on nicci!!!
All that we experience has been and for some still is experienced by the vets on KTC. I am forever grateful that they shared their experience with us. Now its our time to help the newbies but also to keep our vets strong. Enough for now but we are good, strong in quit and ready for the challenge. Until next time stay safe, stay strong and God bless.

Promises kept
8/8/98
3/5/20
Boy, some ding a ling needs to proof read better but I typed this before my nap when the funk was at its peak. Had my nap and feel better but just too lazy right now to fix. Hopefully my english teacher buddy in Georgia will laugh. At least I wasn’t one of his students, lol.

I am available for tutoring. $25 an hour.  Proofreading, too. $10 per page. I'll run a tab for anyone!
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on August 01, 2020, 09:32:10 AM
Well I got to a point that I never thought I would, 150 days quit. All the times that I have tried I never made it more than 30 days. This time I went 78 days before joining KTC thinking I could go it alone. Don't do that no matter how tough you think you are or just do not want strangers telling you what to do like me. So far everything is going super good now that we are getting my silent reflux under control and yes quitting changes not only the ph in your mouth but the ph in your gut. The tobacco covered up an issue I had for years and never could put my finger on it. If you are having reflux issues I would first recommend raising the front of your bed 6 inches so that you would stop refluxing at night, research research research check out wipeoutreflux.com to start, change your diet immediately and stick to your diet with the same strength as your tobacco quit. Its all about the diet and finding what foods/drinks are causing it. I am at 35 days since diet started and I am slowing bringing foods in to see if the are causing reflux, so far so good but its all about moderation.
I still have issues with my quit everyday but trying to heal from pepsin burn is still center stage. My biggest issues are the CRAVES which are constant but after 30 years I don't know any different. I still get weird achy teeth that feel like I just had them cleaned with a grinder (that painful scrapped feeling). The sore gums out of no where along with bottom jaw soreness but both sides at same time. They usually just last a few hours then are gone. Still get foggy and headaches from time to time but nothing like early in quit. I still am really wiped out by end of day and at some times it feels like I should just go to bed. Ever since I quit I have had that feeling and have been going to bed at 9 pm because I just can't keep going. I also get the nagging throat that gets worse by end of day due to pepsin damage that is still healing which helps wear me out. Dip dreams still happen but are getting really weird and are quite vivid. I actually have told myself during the last two dreams that its a dream and I have quit and the dream stops. I am so glad that I finally pulled myself together to make this quit be the last time needed. I have had my inner circle be stretched to accommodate all the new members of what I consider family to be in it. I would never would have been this far and this proud without all my family helping. Thanks to my quit crew The June Renegades of Quit, all the vets who have reached out @Bigdiesel90 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=14797) @stillbrewing (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=16240) @Mr.Incredible and called me out, to all the newbies @Whatsupsnapper (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17918) @CoachNewt (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17751) @Quitter2019 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=14564) that I have been chatting with as that has helped my quit but the ultimate thanks goes to God. Without his grace I would never had the chance to finally be successful at quitting and now being able to help others. If we lead only one person to the Lord we are doing our job so if we are able to help one person stay quit then we have done our job. For those people we have helped will help others which makes Gods church and tobacco quitters grow. Ok thats enough but thanks again everybody as day 150 feels pretty darn awesome.

promises kept
8/8/98
3/5/20
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: stillbrewing on August 01, 2020, 11:26:59 AM
Well I got to a point that I never thought I would, 150 days quit. All the times that I have tried I never made it more than 30 days. This time I went 78 days before joining KTC thinking I could go it alone. Don't do that no matter how tough you think you are or just do not want strangers telling you what to do like me. So far everything is going super good now that we are getting my silent reflux under control and yes quitting changes not only the ph in your mouth but the ph in your gut. The tobacco covered up an issue I had for years and never could put my finger on it. If you are having reflux issues I would first recommend raising the front of your bed 6 inches so that you would stop refluxing at night, research research research check out wipeoutreflux.com to start, change your diet immediately and stick to your diet with the same strength as your tobacco quit. Its all about the diet and finding what foods/drinks are causing it. I am at 35 days since diet started and I am slowing bringing foods in to see if the are causing reflux, so far so good but its all about moderation.
I still have issues with my quit everyday but trying to heal from pepsin burn is still center stage. My biggest issues are the CRAVES which are constant but after 30 years I don't know any different. I still get weird achy teeth that feel like I just had them cleaned with a grinder (that painful scrapped feeling). The sore gums out of no where along with bottom jaw soreness but both sides at same time. They usually just last a few hours then are gone. Still get foggy and headaches from time to time but nothing like early in quit. I still am really wiped out by end of day and at some times it feels like I should just go to bed. Ever since I quit I have had that feeling and have been going to bed at 9 pm because I just can't keep going. I also get the nagging throat that gets worse by end of day due to pepsin damage that is still healing which helps wear me out. Dip dreams still happen but are getting really weird and are quite vivid. I actually have told myself during the last two dreams that its a dream and I have quit and the dream stops. I am so glad that I finally pulled myself together to make this quit be the last time needed. I have had my inner circle be stretched to accommodate all the new members of what I consider family to be in it. I would never would have been this far and this proud without all my family helping. Thanks to my quit crew The June Renegades of Quit, all the vets who have reached out @Bigdiesel90 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=14797) @stillbrewing (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=16240) @Mr.Incredible and called me out, to all the newbies @Whatsupsnapper (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17918) @CoachNewt (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17751) @Quitter2019 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=14564) that I have been chatting with as that has helped my quit but the ultimate thanks goes to God. Without his grace I would never had the chance to finally be successful at quitting and now being able to help others. If we lead only one person to the Lord we are doing our job so if we are able to help one person stay quit then we have done our job. For those people we have helped will help others which makes Gods church and tobacco quitters grow. Ok thats enough but thanks again everybody as day 150 feels pretty darn awesome.

promises kept
8/8/98
3/5/20
@Thefranks5 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17642)
I have a lot of the same issues that you are experiencing. 
My diet sucks so I take the easy was out and medicate with Protonix and that eliminates the reflux.  I also can relate to the tiredness.  Since my quit, If I don't get some caffeine after 12pm, I'm wearing out the rumble strips on the side of the highway on the way home from work.  I am exhausted by the end of the day and usually roll into bed at about 8pm.  Two days ago I experienced something that I haven't felt in a long time...nic rage.  For whatever reason, I had been thinking about dip all day.  I drove home from work a raving madman.  I was told that this foolishness can still occur. 
Keep rocking the quit my brother!
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on August 13, 2020, 06:57:23 PM
Just a shout out to you all, we are still kicking that cope/grizzly can down the Pennsylvania highway so no need to worry. My sanity is about to run out though, lol. Well almost anyway. I just wanted to say thanks to all the vets who have gone before us and have blogged about there experience. There is no book to help you figure what is going on other then KTC and that is where 99% of my answers have been from. Its been over 100 days that I have been dealing with the effects of silent reflux and if any of you new guys are having throat issues look into silent reflux and get an ent specialist appt. I waited to long by being scared by the pains. Just think, if you did not have pain before you quit do you think the pain is because you quit or something else. Thinking it is something else is very debilitating and I know but still get it checked out. It totally amazing what tobacco does to your body and how long it takes to clean it up. I know exactly why the failure rate is so high as how many have failed and just go back to chew just so they can feel normal again. Funny thing is, that is not normal to feel that way when you have all the nicotine and other garbage from chew running thru your body. I said to my wife and anybody who would listen "I HAVE NO CLUE WHAT NORMAL FEELS LIKE SINCE I AM A 30 YEAR ADDICT". So at 162 days the area from the top of my ribcage up to the top of my head is still having serious issues, some is reflux damage, some is because I kicked the meds out the door and going full on diet and I actually have reflux relapse and of course the ever present and wishing it would just go away withdrawal, fix body, brain issues. Sorry losing focus but thats also another part of this nic crap to deal with. Anyway I again am thanking all the vets, my fellow June 2020 renegades, my quit brothers/sisters and to all you newbies the knowledge is on this site but you need to do the leg work yourself. Just like your quit you are going to have to do it for you. Thanks all and God bless.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Keith0617 on August 14, 2020, 09:22:47 AM
Just a shout out to you all, we are still kicking that cope/grizzly can down the Pennsylvania highway so no need to worry. My sanity is about to run out though, lol. Well almost anyway. I just wanted to say thanks to all the vets who have gone before us and have blogged about there experience. There is no book to help you figure what is going on other then KTC and that is where 99% of my answers have been from. Its been over 100 days that I have been dealing with the effects of silent reflux and if any of you new guys are having throat issues look into silent reflux and get an ent specialist appt. I waited to long by being scared by the pains. Just think, if you did not have pain before you quit do you think the pain is because you quit or something else. Thinking it is something else is very debilitating and I know but still get it checked out. It totally amazing what tobacco does to your body and how long it takes to clean it up. I know exactly why the failure rate is so high as how many have failed and just go back to chew just so they can feel normal again. Funny thing is, that is not normal to feel that way when you have all the nicotine and other garbage from chew running thru your body. I said to my wife and anybody who would listen "I HAVE NO CLUE WHAT NORMAL FEELS LIKE SINCE I AM A 30 YEAR ADDICT". So at 162 days the area from the top of my ribcage up to the top of my head is still having serious issues, some is reflux damage, some is because I kicked the meds out the door and going full on diet and I actually have reflux relapse and of course the ever present and wishing it would just go away withdrawal, fix body, brain issues. Sorry losing focus but thats also another part of this nic crap to deal with. Anyway I again am thanking all the vets, my fellow June 2020 renegades, my quit brothers/sisters and to all you newbies the knowledge is on this site but you need to do the leg work yourself. Just like your quit you are going to have to do it for you. Thanks all and God bless.
Keep doing what you are doing and quit ODAAT. Proud to quit with you.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: 69franx on August 14, 2020, 10:01:08 AM
Just a shout out to you all, we are still kicking that cope/grizzly can down the Pennsylvania highway so no need to worry. My sanity is about to run out though, lol. Well almost anyway. I just wanted to say thanks to all the vets who have gone before us and have blogged about there experience. There is no book to help you figure what is going on other then KTC and that is where 99% of my answers have been from. Its been over 100 days that I have been dealing with the effects of silent reflux and if any of you new guys are having throat issues look into silent reflux and get an ent specialist appt. I waited to long by being scared by the pains. Just think, if you did not have pain before you quit do you think the pain is because you quit or something else. Thinking it is something else is very debilitating and I know but still get it checked out. It totally amazing what tobacco does to your body and how long it takes to clean it up. I know exactly why the failure rate is so high as how many have failed and just go back to chew just so they can feel normal again. Funny thing is, that is not normal to feel that way when you have all the nicotine and other garbage from chew running thru your body. I said to my wife and anybody who would listen "I HAVE NO CLUE WHAT NORMAL FEELS LIKE SINCE I AM A 30 YEAR ADDICT". So at 162 days the area from the top of my ribcage up to the top of my head is still having serious issues, some is reflux damage, some is because I kicked the meds out the door and going full on diet and I actually have reflux relapse and of course the ever present and wishing it would just go away withdrawal, fix body, brain issues. Sorry losing focus but thats also another part of this nic crap to deal with. Anyway I again am thanking all the vets, my fellow June 2020 renegades, my quit brothers/sisters and to all you newbies the knowledge is on this site but you need to do the leg work yourself. Just like your quit you are going to have to do it for you. Thanks all and God bless.
Keep doing what you are doing and quit ODAAT. Proud to quit with you.
Great stuff here brother, thanx for sharing
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on August 21, 2020, 08:45:19 PM
Okay just bear with me and this is not to pile on @Croakenhagen (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=18). Last night I had another dip dream and told my wife about it over supper tonight which grossed her out and caused her to have pity on me. I dreamed that we had just finished a nice supper and I had a fresh can of grizzly extra long cut natural in my hand and still brand new. I remember well running my finger nail along the lid to cut the paper then doing the old tap on the lid while holding the can in one hand to pack it. I remember trying to perfect the one hand one finger pack slap when I was young. Anyway in the dream which was so vivid that I remember the smell was so strong and smelled so good when that can was opened. I remember taking a humongous amount and stuffed it in my face. Once that taste and texture hit my mouth all hell broke loose.  I could not believe what I had just done and tried to spit it out as fast as I could thinking that I would still be okay. My only thought was get it out and I will not have to tell anybody on KTC what I had done. But as fate would have it my wife was watching me the whole time and I remember her yelling at me for caving and saying go now and post all over KTC that I caved. All I could think about was Croak and what happened to him and how bad I felt for us both. I was so scared because I let everybody down and did not think I could face anybody ever again. I felt the literal words jump off my phone as I received a never ending lashing. I can remember screaming at everybody to leave me alone then I busted out crying because I failed.
I have no clue what had me realize that it was just a dream but it was so real that it scares me just to think of it. I never did wake up but understood that it was a dream and that was it. So even at 170 days in to this there are still crazy things happening mentally and physically. Still trying to get this reflux under control and keep the healing going. Still get goofy pains everyday for no reason around my neck and face area. Then the teeth start to ache, then the tongue hurts and then its gone. As @Whatsupsnapper (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17918) and I always say if we only knew then what we know now we would have never started. We did this to ourselves and we need to fight thru and pay the quit price. I once again and as always want to thank all the vets who have helped me whether you know it or not. To all the newbies, keep fighting as you will have good days and bad days then the good days start to outnumber the bad. If you have questions keep an intro going as you will be surprised who responds. For all those in the pre HOF and post HOF days I feel your pain and this is a very difficult time because we have been fighting this for a long time. We just want to feel good again and some people have little issues and some have huge issues but we need to keep the fight and WIN. One thing that has been with me the whole time is my faith in Jesus. I do believe that one day we all will answer for what we have done and by golly I want to look at him and say "We quit tobacco together" for there is no way I could have done this without him. I give God thanks everyday for leading me to KTC and now I am leading others to KTC. I pray that all who join will succeed in removing tobacco from their lives and replacing it with Jesus if he isn't already there. Thank you for reading and may God bless you in all of your travels. PTBQWYT!!!!!!
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Athan on August 27, 2020, 12:22:43 PM
....It totally amazing what tobacco does to your body and how long it takes to clean it up...
you got that right. A lot of folks roll on in here because their lips/gums are shredded or they've noticed lesions on their tongue. Then, when their bodies have healed these areas, their fear of cancer departs right along with the symptoms and they fall back into use again. Many fail to realize that there's a lot more damage than what is just visible. The whole GI tract is affected as are the kidneys, spleen, and liver. How about that - you can't pull your spleen out and look at it like you can with your lip. The sooner the addict quits and stays quit the better. Glad you're here.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: oldschool on August 27, 2020, 05:08:49 PM
....It totally amazing what tobacco does to your body and how long it takes to clean it up...
you got that right. A lot of folks roll on in here because their lips/gums are shredded or they've noticed lesions on their tongue. Then, when their bodies have healed these areas, their fear of cancer departs right along with the symptoms and they fall back into use again. Many fail to realize that there's a lot more damage than what is just visible. The whole GI tract is affected as are the kidneys, spleen, and liver. How about that - you can't pull your spleen out and look at it like you can with your lip. The sooner the addict quits and stays quit the better. Glad you're here.
Agreed @Athan (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=258) ! 

Also, not just the physical injuries, but the mental damage as well.  Anxiety, coping with social situations, mood swings, irritability, depression.  Once an addict, always an addict.... 
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on August 28, 2020, 09:04:57 PM
....It totally amazing what tobacco does to your body and how long it takes to clean it up...
you got that right. A lot of folks roll on in here because their lips/gums are shredded or they've noticed lesions on their tongue. Then, when their bodies have healed these areas, their fear of cancer departs right along with the symptoms and they fall back into use again. Many fail to realize that there's a lot more damage than what is just visible. The whole GI tract is affected as are the kidneys, spleen, and liver. How about that - you can't pull your spleen out and look at it like you can with your lip. The sooner the addict quits and stays quit the better. Glad you're here.
Agreed @Athan (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=258) ! 

Also, not just the physical injuries, but the mental damage as well.  Anxiety, coping with social situations, mood swings, irritability, depression.  Once an addict, always an addict....
@Athan (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=258)  @oldschool (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1411)  Thank you for adding to my blog. Even at 177 days today the affects of tobacco are still not gone. I today am dealing with the reflux damage in my throat area and when I use my voice alot it really is painful. I still get the crap gut (as I call it) when this are not balanced because my body still has not adapted fully to no tobacco. I still can get some interesting anxiety issues at times but the depression has more or less gone away. I still have concentration and focus issues at times do to stress levels and right now we are having some huge family changes so the stress is super super high. Still getting the headaches which seem to be the clue that my brain has had enough for one day and close to shutting down for the evening. But all in all we are 1000% better at day 177 then day 77 so yes odaat works for sure. We as addicts need to learn the art of patience so that we can deal with all the withdrawal issues and just power thru. But man what a ride to which I never want to do again. But thanks again to all the vets, without your knowledge and help I would have never gone this far. Now using the tools I learned from you its my turn to help the newbies make their quit stick and help them carry the torch. Thanks again everybody and God bless.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on August 31, 2020, 05:54:25 PM
As we stroll thru our new quit life we hope and pray we get better. Physical issues seem to drag on, mental issues seem to drag on and when the stress hits it seems like the bottom is just taken right out from under you. I have busted my butt for 180 days to stay nicotine free. I will keep busting my butt to keep them days going.
But somedays are definitely harder then the others. For 30 plus years I packed a lip to get by through whatever I faced. Starting over after all those years is no easy task and every persons quit will be be different. Why do some have an easier time then others even though they chewed the same amount of time? Why do some people like myself go from one issue to the next? My buddy in Colorado can relate to my situation. @Whatsupsnapper (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17918) has had a very difficult time with his quit also and has been a lifesaver for me. My family is going thru a huge change as we are becoming foster parents to a young man that just needs a stable house to live in. It is a new chapter in our families life and I am going to complete this tobacco  free. As we go thru our battles we always have God on our side as he will never leave or forsake us. I want to thank all of my new family on KTC because without you I never would have gone this far. I want to thank God for bringing me to KTC because he knew what I needed to make that change. I pray everyday for all addicts to be able to complete their journey and stay clean. I now ask you for your prayers to strengthen my quit and just to help relieve the stress that I am going thru with life changes. Thank you again and God bless you all.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Athan on September 01, 2020, 04:55:52 PM
.... I have busted my butt for 180 days to stay nicotine free....
SIX MONTHS IS YUGE!!!
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Keith0617 on September 01, 2020, 08:07:28 PM
.... I have busted my butt for 180 days to stay nicotine free....
SIX MONTHS IS YUGE!!!
Congrats @Thefranks5 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17642).  You are killing it.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: 69franx on September 02, 2020, 09:26:22 AM
.... I have busted my butt for 180 days to stay nicotine free....
SIX MONTHS IS YUGE!!!
Congrats @Thefranks5 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17642).  You are killing it.
6 months is awesome, keep killing it brother!
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: EXBEARHAG on September 20, 2020, 08:44:02 PM
Congrats on the second floor brother.  Keep keepin'!!

 'party2'
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: 69franx on September 20, 2020, 10:07:01 PM
Congrats on the second floor brother.  Keep keepin'!!

 'party2'
Congrats sir!
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Keith0617 on September 21, 2020, 08:17:59 AM
Congrats on the second floor brother.  Keep keepin'!!

 'party2'
Congrats sir!
Nice work - stay loyal to your routine
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on September 22, 2020, 07:07:23 AM
Congrats on the second floor brother.  Keep keepin'!!

 'party2'
Congrats sir!
Nice work - stay loyal to your routine
Thank you , helping others has helped me as you have shown. Its a proven method and its my honor to carry that on.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on October 07, 2020, 03:28:15 PM
Never before had I ever thought I would get this far with my quit. I owe it the the good Lord above, my wife and kids, KTC and all the supporters here. Had my second dentist visit since my quit 217 days ago. She was very happy and said everything looked great. My teeth are in great shape, my gums are great and the normal color is back. After 30 years of abuse I never thought I would still be able to go to the dentist or doctor and say “TOBACCO FREE”. There is hope for us all in this quit but you have to tow the line and stay the course. It can be and will be done for sure. Thanks again to everybody who is still helping me today and I am trying to help as many as will let me. I have no magic ball saying how to quit but I did persevere for this long. You want to be part of the text crew and help each other send me a pm and we can share digits. Stay strong, stay quit and God bless.   
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Keith0617 on October 07, 2020, 06:11:05 PM
Never before had I ever thought I would get this far with my quit. I owe it the the good Lord above, my wife and kids, KTC and all the supporters here. Had my second dentist visit since my quit 217 days ago. She was very happy and said everything looked great. My teeth are in great shape, my gums are great and the normal color is back. After 30 years of abuse I never thought I would still be able to go to the dentist or doctor and say “TOBACCO FREE”. There is hope for us all in this quit but you have to tow the line and stay the course. It can be and will be done for sure. Thanks again to everybody who is still helping me today and I am trying to help as many as will let me. I have no magic ball saying how to quit but I did persevere for this long. You want to be part of the text crew and help each other send me a pm and we can share digits. Stay strong, stay quit and God bless.
Congrats @Thefranks5 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17642) . Remember this victory and the feeling of it. The nic lady will tap on your shoulder again one day. Let these wins be another reason you keep her at bay.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on October 07, 2020, 06:49:08 PM
Never before had I ever thought I would get this far with my quit. I owe it the the good Lord above, my wife and kids, KTC and all the supporters here. Had my second dentist visit since my quit 217 days ago. She was very happy and said everything looked great. My teeth are in great shape, my gums are great and the normal color is back. After 30 years of abuse I never thought I would still be able to go to the dentist or doctor and say “TOBACCO FREE”. There is hope for us all in this quit but you have to tow the line and stay the course. It can be and will be done for sure. Thanks again to everybody who is still helping me today and I am trying to help as many as will let me. I have no magic ball saying how to quit but I did persevere for this long. You want to be part of the text crew and help each other send me a pm and we can share digits. Stay strong, stay quit and God bless.
Congrats @Thefranks5 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17642) . Remember this victory and the feeling of it. The nic lady will tap on your shoulder again one day. Let these wins be another reason you keep her at bay.
Its a daily fight with her. Makes me so mad that it still drives me crazy. Its 1000% better now then 200 or even 100 days ago but man I will never go back. Fought to hard for to long to resort to that. Thanks Keith your words mean alot and so do these Never Again For Any Reason!!!
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Keith0617 on October 08, 2020, 08:26:44 AM
Never before had I ever thought I would get this far with my quit. I owe it the the good Lord above, my wife and kids, KTC and all the supporters here. Had my second dentist visit since my quit 217 days ago. She was very happy and said everything looked great. My teeth are in great shape, my gums are great and the normal color is back. After 30 years of abuse I never thought I would still be able to go to the dentist or doctor and say “TOBACCO FREE”. There is hope for us all in this quit but you have to tow the line and stay the course. It can be and will be done for sure. Thanks again to everybody who is still helping me today and I am trying to help as many as will let me. I have no magic ball saying how to quit but I did persevere for this long. You want to be part of the text crew and help each other send me a pm and we can share digits. Stay strong, stay quit and God bless.
Congrats @Thefranks5 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17642) . Remember this victory and the feeling of it. The nic lady will tap on your shoulder again one day. Let these wins be another reason you keep her at bay.
Its a daily fight with her. Makes me so mad that it still drives me crazy. Its 1000% better now then 200 or even 100 days ago but man I will never go back. Fought to hard for to long to resort to that. Thanks Keith your words mean alot and so do these Never Again For Any Reason!!!
@Thefranks5 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17642) the light grows brighter around every 100 days. Enjoy and celebrate the wins. We can’t pack our mouths full of crap for years and expect everything is great after a short time period. I know it is hard, but be patient. It keeps getting better and better.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: EXBEARHAG on October 08, 2020, 10:22:46 PM
Never before had I ever thought I would get this far with my quit. I owe it the the good Lord above, my wife and kids, KTC and all the supporters here. Had my second dentist visit since my quit 217 days ago. She was very happy and said everything looked great. My teeth are in great shape, my gums are great and the normal color is back. After 30 years of abuse I never thought I would still be able to go to the dentist or doctor and say “TOBACCO FREE”. There is hope for us all in this quit but you have to tow the line and stay the course. It can be and will be done for sure. Thanks again to everybody who is still helping me today and I am trying to help as many as will let me. I have no magic ball saying how to quit but I did persevere for this long. You want to be part of the text crew and help each other send me a pm and we can share digits. Stay strong, stay quit and God bless.
Congrats @Thefranks5 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17642) . Remember this victory and the feeling of it. The nic lady will tap on your shoulder again one day. Let these wins be another reason you keep her at bay.
Its a daily fight with her. Makes me so mad that it still drives me crazy. Its 1000% better now then 200 or even 100 days ago but man I will never go back. Fought to hard for to long to resort to that. Thanks Keith your words mean alot and so do these Never Again For Any Reason!!!
@Thefranks5 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17642) the light grows brighter around every 100 days. Enjoy and celebrate the wins. We can’t pack our mouths full of crap for years and expect everything is great after a short time period. I know it is hard, but be patient. It keeps getting better and better.

Love to see those not-so-little victories.  Keep the faith brother. 
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on October 28, 2020, 08:43:17 PM
As I rolled thru life as an addict I never had the issues that I have now. From silent reflux, facial pains that come and go, neck issues from different sleep style to absolute exhaustion at 9 pm. My wife and I have lost track of my ailments and actually have fun with name the ailment of the day, lol. All my issues are because of my 30 plus year addiction and showed up when I finally made the greatest decision of my life (2nd to accepting Jesus as my savior and 3rd to marrying my awesome wife of course) so it still can be a constant struggle. I have received great reports from family doctor, dentist and ent specialist and all is going real good. I will be honest and say that the reflux issues have been the worst as when a relapse happens it really can set ya back. Relapses suck and it can be a challenge trying to figure out what caused it to flare up. Thought I was doing good and bam I am back trying to quell the fire again. Sucks because it takes a week to 10 days to straighten it out but from what I have read thats normal until you can eliminate the triggers. It is no where near as bad as the full blown attack that I was dealing with in my first 100 days but very annoying. But we are still going strong and actually have a nephew who is quitting with me and a foster child that didn't really have a choice but had to quit cigarettes when he came to live with us. As I always state having quit buddies is what I have found really solidifies your quit. There is nothing like having somebody walking that walk with you that has been there or is experiencing the garbage right along with you. So all you newbies reach out within your group to each other, somebody take charge and gather the troops, be there for each other by checking the site for who is didn't post later in the day, if a vet reaches out to you accept it and say thanks and even share digits if comfortable but the biggest thing is to WUPP. That is so important to me as posting my promise is just like peeing or slamming that first cup of joe down. Now it is so common place that I look forward to posting and feel bad if I don't post until after 8 on the weekend. OK thats enough for now but thank you to all the vets, all the people who I have in my text bunch that I promise to off the site, my awesome fellow Renegades for accepting me in and to the almighty Lord in heaven as without you none of this is possible. Stay strong, stay QUIT and God bless.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: ankape on October 30, 2020, 01:32:00 AM
As I rolled thru life as an addict I never had the issues that I have now. From silent reflux, facial pains that come and go, neck issues from different sleep style to absolute exhaustion at 9 pm. My wife and I have lost track of my ailments and actually have fun with name the ailment of the day, lol. All my issues are because of my 30 plus year addiction and showed up when I finally made the greatest decision of my life (2nd to accepting Jesus as my savior and 3rd to marrying my awesome wife of course) so it still can be a constant struggle. I have received great reports from family doctor, dentist and ent specialist and all is going real good. I will be honest and say that the reflux issues have been the worst as when a relapse happens it really can set ya back. Relapses suck and it can be a challenge trying to figure out what caused it to flare up. Thought I was doing good and bam I am back trying to quell the fire again. Sucks because it takes a week to 10 days to straighten it out but from what I have read thats normal until you can eliminate the triggers. It is no where near as bad as the full blown attack that I was dealing with in my first 100 days but very annoying. But we are still going strong and actually have a nephew who is quitting with me and a foster child that didn't really have a choice but had to quit cigarettes when he came to live with us. As I always state having quit buddies is what I have found really solidifies your quit. There is nothing like having somebody walking that walk with you that has been there or is experiencing the garbage right along with you. So all you newbies reach out within your group to each other, somebody take charge and gather the troops, be there for each other by checking the site for who is didn't post later in the day, if a vet reaches out to you accept it and say thanks and even share digits if comfortable but the biggest thing is to WUPP. That is so important to me as posting my promise is just like peeing or slamming that first cup of joe down. Now it is so common place that I look forward to posting and feel bad if I don't post until after 8 on the weekend. OK thats enough for now but thank you to all the vets, all the people who I have in my text bunch that I promise to off the site, my awesome fellow Renegades for accepting me in and to the almighty Lord in heaven as without you none of this is possible. Stay strong, stay QUIT and God bless.
You once told me- and I tucked it away in my little document of good stuff I’ve read.-  “It is true that we can pull strength from others and strengthen others at the same time.” ~thefranks5
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Athan on October 30, 2020, 08:14:52 AM
As I rolled thru life as an addict I never had the issues that I have now. From silent reflux, facial pains that come and go, neck issues from different sleep style to absolute exhaustion at 9 pm. My wife and I have lost track of my ailments and actually have fun with name the ailment of the day, lol. All my issues are because of my 30 plus year addiction and showed up when I finally made the greatest decision of my life (2nd to accepting Jesus as my savior and 3rd to marrying my awesome wife of course) so it still can be a constant struggle. I have received great reports from family doctor, dentist and ent specialist and all is going real good. I will be honest and say that the reflux issues have been the worst as when a relapse happens it really can set ya back. Relapses suck and it can be a challenge trying to figure out what caused it to flare up. Thought I was doing good and bam I am back trying to quell the fire again. Sucks because it takes a week to 10 days to straighten it out but from what I have read thats normal until you can eliminate the triggers. It is no where near as bad as the full blown attack that I was dealing with in my first 100 days but very annoying. But we are still going strong and actually have a nephew who is quitting with me and a foster child that didn't really have a choice but had to quit cigarettes when he came to live with us. As I always state having quit buddies is what I have found really solidifies your quit. There is nothing like having somebody walking that walk with you that has been there or is experiencing the garbage right along with you. So all you newbies reach out within your group to each other, somebody take charge and gather the troops, be there for each other by checking the site for who is didn't post later in the day, if a vet reaches out to you accept it and say thanks and even share digits if comfortable but the biggest thing is to WUPP. That is so important to me as posting my promise is just like peeing or slamming that first cup of joe down. Now it is so common place that I look forward to posting and feel bad if I don't post until after 8 on the weekend. OK thats enough for now but thank you to all the vets, all the people who I have in my text bunch that I promise to off the site, my awesome fellow Renegades for accepting me in and to the almighty Lord in heaven as without you none of this is possible. Stay strong, stay QUIT and God bless.
You once told me- and I tucked it away in my little document of good stuff I’ve read.-  “It is true that we can pull strength from others and strengthen others at the same time.” ~thefranks5
Edification is a two way street! :)
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on October 30, 2020, 06:56:36 PM
As I rolled thru life as an addict I never had the issues that I have now. From silent reflux, facial pains that come and go, neck issues from different sleep style to absolute exhaustion at 9 pm. My wife and I have lost track of my ailments and actually have fun with name the ailment of the day, lol. All my issues are because of my 30 plus year addiction and showed up when I finally made the greatest decision of my life (2nd to accepting Jesus as my savior and 3rd to marrying my awesome wife of course) so it still can be a constant struggle. I have received great reports from family doctor, dentist and ent specialist and all is going real good. I will be honest and say that the reflux issues have been the worst as when a relapse happens it really can set ya back. Relapses suck and it can be a challenge trying to figure out what caused it to flare up. Thought I was doing good and bam I am back trying to quell the fire again. Sucks because it takes a week to 10 days to straighten it out but from what I have read thats normal until you can eliminate the triggers. It is no where near as bad as the full blown attack that I was dealing with in my first 100 days but very annoying. But we are still going strong and actually have a nephew who is quitting with me and a foster child that didn't really have a choice but had to quit cigarettes when he came to live with us. As I always state having quit buddies is what I have found really solidifies your quit. There is nothing like having somebody walking that walk with you that has been there or is experiencing the garbage right along with you. So all you newbies reach out within your group to each other, somebody take charge and gather the troops, be there for each other by checking the site for who is didn't post later in the day, if a vet reaches out to you accept it and say thanks and even share digits if comfortable but the biggest thing is to WUPP. That is so important to me as posting my promise is just like peeing or slamming that first cup of joe down. Now it is so common place that I look forward to posting and feel bad if I don't post until after 8 on the weekend. OK thats enough for now but thank you to all the vets, all the people who I have in my text bunch that I promise to off the site, my awesome fellow Renegades for accepting me in and to the almighty Lord in heaven as without you none of this is possible. Stay strong, stay QUIT and God bless.
You once told me- and I tucked it away in my little document of good stuff I’ve read.-  “It is true that we can pull strength from others and strengthen others at the same time.” ~thefranks5
So true @ankape (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=15914) , this year has been a very eye opening year and very educational too. From breaking a 30 year addiction, taking on a larger role in the church youth group, becoming a foster parent for the first time, to being a conductor which was totally awesome and helping my nephew with his quit (I tried getting him on the site but he wants to go it with his immediate family). We find ourselves doing things we never thought we would or never have done before. I can remember in the mens group at church the teacher saying "you will only make a difference in your life and others when you get out of your comfort zone". Why do we not do things to enhance ourselves and others unless its comfortable. We all need our groups to get thru many trials and troubles. I never would have been able to get thru life without my Christian groups. I never would have got this far unless people called out to me on KTC. I knew this quit would be the last time when @GS9502 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17011) invited me in to the Renegade text group and I gained the support and strength I so much needed. We gain a new passion for something when we truly feel it works. I truly believe KTC works and that is why I am passionate to help others on the site. My wife says that my new passion for the site is a bit creepy then I remind her of my day count and she smiles. I have had people reach out and guide me so much this year that its really amazing so it is my pleasure to give back. So yes I am a strong believer that we can pull strength from others and strengthen them at the same time. That is why the good Lord has put me with an awesome lady that is my wife for 24 years now. By ourselves we are just one but with each other we are everything. As always thank you to all who have helped and I will forever be grateful. Stay strong, stay QUIT and God bless.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on November 10, 2020, 05:10:50 PM
Long one but if it helps one person then I am successful. Since I chewed for over 30 years one thing that has been with me since I quit has been the feeling that I am in mourning. I told my wife I feel like I have lost a close friend of over 30 years and am mourning my loss. So to help me with my quit I started using fake stuff and seeds. I used smokey mountain the most and baccoff occasionally which leads me to where I am at. As some of you know I was diagnosed with silent reflux and if you don't know what it is please research it as it could be a great wartime tool as it brought me to my knees. With that reflux you get a very very sore throat and voice box which can take months to heal. But in order to heal you have to eliminate what causes the reflux and pain. Well by my account I thought I was doing well but still dealt with throat/voicebox and ear issues, like I said research it. So by using my ever so small and thick man brain I have come to realize two things. 1- I used just as much fake as I did the real stuff and 2- smokey mountain has cayenne powder and baccoff has vinegar. Two very great ingredients to give you that burn you so are looking for in your lip but also dries out your mouth, throat and on down to your gut and can actually cause damage to you. I ended up using so much during the course of the day that I would feel like I did a hot wing challenge and needed an ice bath. So by using that I was just aggravating my reflux and not being healed.
Back to my initial thought, yes in my head I felt like I lost a friend (well I am an addict). I replaced that with fake which helped but just did not do the trick. I remember in the last month prior to my quit I would stick a chew in and spit it out 10 minutes later to just do it all over again. I did not want that chew but my brain craved it so bad that I would keep going so guess what happened next. Yup I ended up doing the same thing with fake, first thing before making coffee a fake lip, then to the toilet, grab coffee on way back and log in and post my promise. Finished a service call at work popped a fakey, finished eating popped a fakey, had to poop popped a fakey (sorry about that one girls). Sick story isn't it? I went right back to living like my old addict self using the fake stuff. So I finally got enough spark to lite that candle in my head I realized it. I thought I needed the fake stuff to get thru life and was really just fooling and screwing myself up even more. This quit is so much mental even in the late stages that it can really mess you up. Why would I still feel like I was in mourning, its not like somebody died and left me but that is what my brain was telling me. So today I am putting a close on that chapter and rewriting my brain. Starting today you will see a second number next to my day count. That is my 2nd day count for the fake stuff and you will see a new promise. NNTOFS- No Nicotine Today Or Fake Stuff as that is what I think I will need to conquer this beast. I never realized what I was doing until my wife said to me on Saturday "you use that fake stuff as a warm blanket". So as usual I give my wife buckets of credit for pointing out what was in front of my face. Pretty sad to think that I was helping others while falling right back into the same old pattern. I want to apologize to anybody who might think less of me and I deserve it but this is where we change.

So I would like to know
1- is this what some of you are feeling (maybe some can relate)
2- do you also feel like your in mourning (adds to my anxiety/depression issues)
3- did you use fake and for how long (250 days for me)
4- physically how you feeling, any new things that quitting helped you find (Mine was silent reflux which I had for years but never new what caused the symptoms I had)
5- did anybody utilize meds? (I had the prescription filled and in my hand but never used it)

Answer them if you want (be nice please) but I am just curious as I have dealt with a whole slew of issues from quitting that were not there before. I can understand the cavers mentality as I was theoretically caving using the fake stuff. I have so many people to thank but the biggest would be the Lord for allowing me another chance to quit, my wife for just dealing with a complete basket case of a husband, everybody at KTC as you are now family to me. Never thought that a bunch of strangers would help me like they did. Especially want to thank @GS9502 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17011) for welcoming me into the Renegades at 78 days in, you sir have made a difference, @stillbrewing (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=16240) a fellow keystone state quitter who I know has my back. @MuleMan (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=16417) another fellow keystone state guy who helped me become a conductor, @Whatsupsnapper (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17918) dude if you only knew how much you have helped me and truly are a brutha from another mutha and to all the rest who have helped me along the way. Proud to be quit with each and every one of you today and honored to be part of the family. Thank you again.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Athan on November 10, 2020, 07:20:00 PM
So I would like to know:
1- is this what some of you are feeling (maybe some can relate)
I've had some reflux late at night recently though I don't recall it earlier
2- do you also feel like your in mourning (adds to my anxiety/depression issues)
well, 1,045 days in and I do get 'just one' thoughts. Not so much mourning as a desire for an old girlfriend kinda thing
3- did you use fake and for how long (250 days for me)
I used cinnamon sticks and still do from time to time. It was all day every day at first. Now I go days without them
4- physically how you feeling, any new things that quitting helped you find (Mine was silent reflux which I had for years but never new what caused the symptoms I had)
I've gained so much weight that the Coast Guard called and offered me a job as a navigational landmark, though I think that's more due to the gym shutdown for CoVid
5- did anybody utilize meds? (I had the prescription filled and in my hand but never used it)
I tried Chantix years ago but didn't like the effect it had on my cognitive thought
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on November 10, 2020, 07:59:34 PM
So I would like to know:
1- is this what some of you are feeling (maybe some can relate)
I've had some reflux late at night recently though I don't recall it earlier
2- do you also feel like your in mourning (adds to my anxiety/depression issues)
well, 1,045 days in and I do get 'just one' thoughts. Not so much mourning as a desire for an old girlfriend kinda thing
3- did you use fake and for how long (250 days for me)
I used cinnamon sticks and still do from time to time. It was all day every day at first. Now I go days without them
4- physically how you feeling, any new things that quitting helped you find (Mine was silent reflux which I had for years but never new what caused the symptoms I had)
I've gained so much weight that the Coast Guard called and offered me a job as a navigational landmark, though I think that's more due to the gym shutdown for CoVid
5- did anybody utilize meds? (I had the prescription filled and in my hand but never used it)
I tried Chantix years ago but didn't like the effect it had on my cognitive thought
Thanks Athan, I like the navigational landmark thats funny.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: stillbrewing on November 11, 2020, 03:22:18 AM
So I would like to know:
1- is this what some of you are feeling (maybe some can relate)
I've had some reflux late at night recently though I don't recall it earlier
2- do you also feel like your in mourning (adds to my anxiety/depression issues)
well, 1,045 days in and I do get 'just one' thoughts. Not so much mourning as a desire for an old girlfriend kinda thing
3- did you use fake and for how long (250 days for me)
I used cinnamon sticks and still do from time to time. It was all day every day at first. Now I go days without them
4- physically how you feeling, any new things that quitting helped you find (Mine was silent reflux which I had for years but never new what caused the symptoms I had)
I've gained so much weight that the Coast Guard called and offered me a job as a navigational landmark, though I think that's more due to the gym shutdown for CoVid
5- did anybody utilize meds? (I had the prescription filled and in my hand but never used it)
I tried Chantix years ago but didn't like the effect it had on my cognitive thought
Thanks Athan, I like the navigational landmark thats funny.
Thanks for the shout out Doug and I appreciate all your support to reinforce my quit. 
When I quit, I had severe anxiety and a horrible sense of loss, like just losing a friend of 37 years.  Initially I tried all different brands of fake stuff but they were all a sad replacement for what my brain craved.  The fake did help some with the oral fixation thing and when I used alcohol, but it was a shitty replacement for the real thing and my brain knew it. I gave up on fake for a minute as my quit progressed and it seemed to actually reset my head.  I was visiting family in western PA where dipping and boozing go hand in hand.  I picked up some SM just to make sure I had a crutch if things got difficult.  That SM was great as my brain seemed to forget what cope long cut really used to taste like.  Anyway, fast forward to the present, I still use SM probably a few times a week.  My head will still crave the real stuff as I hit a trigger but it is quickly dismissed.
The anxiety was so bad that about four weeks into my quit I went to my doc and got a script for Wellbutrin.  That drug was like a miracle taking away most of the anxiety and I had no noticeable side effects.  I took it for about 2 months.  I also use protonix daily for GERD.  My diet sucks so life without it would be miserable.
I had many bad days from days 200-300.  Since I hit 300, it has been like the sun breaking through the clouds on a stormy day.  I feel great physically and mentally. 
The best advice I can give you is hang in there my friend because better days are ahead.  I feel that your heavy use of the fake stuff is a major part of your problem with reflux.  That nic demon will always have its hooks in all of us, but I think you are on the right track.  Give up on the fake stuff for now...use gum or whatever for that oral fixation thing and don't worry about the weight gain.  @Athan (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=258), you are on my travel list for 2021..at least I won't have a hard time finding you!
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on November 11, 2020, 07:20:52 AM
So I would like to know:
1- is this what some of you are feeling (maybe some can relate)
I've had some reflux late at night recently though I don't recall it earlier
2- do you also feel like your in mourning (adds to my anxiety/depression issues)
well, 1,045 days in and I do get 'just one' thoughts. Not so much mourning as a desire for an old girlfriend kinda thing
3- did you use fake and for how long (250 days for me)
I used cinnamon sticks and still do from time to time. It was all day every day at first. Now I go days without them
4- physically how you feeling, any new things that quitting helped you find (Mine was silent reflux which I had for years but never new what caused the symptoms I had)
I've gained so much weight that the Coast Guard called and offered me a job as a navigational landmark, though I think that's more due to the gym shutdown for CoVid
5- did anybody utilize meds? (I had the prescription filled and in my hand but never used it)
I tried Chantix years ago but didn't like the effect it had on my cognitive thought
Thanks Athan, I like the navigational landmark thats funny.
Thanks for the shout out Doug and I appreciate all your support to reinforce my quit. 
When I quit, I had severe anxiety and a horrible sense of loss, like just losing a friend of 37 years.  Initially I tried all different brands of fake stuff but they were all a sad replacement for what my brain craved.  The fake did help some with the oral fixation thing and when I used alcohol, but it was a shitty replacement for the real thing and my brain knew it. I gave up on fake for a minute as my quit progressed and it seemed to actually reset my head.  I was visiting family in western PA where dipping and boozing go hand in hand.  I picked up some SM just to make sure I had a crutch if things got difficult.  That SM was great as my brain seemed to forget what cope long cut really used to taste like.  Anyway, fast forward to the present, I still use SM probably a few times a week.  My head will still crave the real stuff as I hit a trigger but it is quickly dismissed.
The anxiety was so bad that about four weeks into my quit I went to my doc and got a script for Wellbutrin.  That drug was like a miracle taking away most of the anxiety and I had no noticeable side effects.  I took it for about 2 months.  I also use protonix daily for GERD.  My diet sucks so life without it would be miserable.
I had many bad days from days 200-300.  Since I hit 300, it has been like the sun breaking through the clouds on a stormy day.  I feel great physically and mentally. 
The best advice I can give you is hang in there my friend because better days are ahead.  I feel that your heavy use of the fake stuff is a major part of your problem with reflux.  That nic demon will always have its hooks in all of us, but I think you are on the right track.  Give up on the fake stuff for now...use gum or whatever for that oral fixation thing and don't worry about the weight gain.  @Athan (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=258), you are on my travel list for 2021..at least I won't have a hard time finding you!
As usual the puddin man delivered, lol. Thank you bud as this is very valuable info not only for me but for any addict that happens to find this feed.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: EXBEARHAG on November 15, 2020, 09:58:01 PM
So I would like to know:
1- is this what some of you are feeling (maybe some can relate)
I've had some reflux late at night recently though I don't recall it earlier
2- do you also feel like your in mourning (adds to my anxiety/depression issues)
well, 1,045 days in and I do get 'just one' thoughts. Not so much mourning as a desire for an old girlfriend kinda thing
3- did you use fake and for how long (250 days for me)
I used cinnamon sticks and still do from time to time. It was all day every day at first. Now I go days without them
4- physically how you feeling, any new things that quitting helped you find (Mine was silent reflux which I had for years but never new what caused the symptoms I had)
I've gained so much weight that the Coast Guard called and offered me a job as a navigational landmark, though I think that's more due to the gym shutdown for CoVid
5- did anybody utilize meds? (I had the prescription filled and in my hand but never used it)
I tried Chantix years ago but didn't like the effect it had on my cognitive thought
Thanks Athan, I like the navigational landmark thats funny.
Thanks for the shout out Doug and I appreciate all your support to reinforce my quit. 
When I quit, I had severe anxiety and a horrible sense of loss, like just losing a friend of 37 years.  Initially I tried all different brands of fake stuff but they were all a sad replacement for what my brain craved.  The fake did help some with the oral fixation thing and when I used alcohol, but it was a shitty replacement for the real thing and my brain knew it. I gave up on fake for a minute as my quit progressed and it seemed to actually reset my head.  I was visiting family in western PA where dipping and boozing go hand in hand.  I picked up some SM just to make sure I had a crutch if things got difficult.  That SM was great as my brain seemed to forget what cope long cut really used to taste like.  Anyway, fast forward to the present, I still use SM probably a few times a week.  My head will still crave the real stuff as I hit a trigger but it is quickly dismissed.
The anxiety was so bad that about four weeks into my quit I went to my doc and got a script for Wellbutrin.  That drug was like a miracle taking away most of the anxiety and I had no noticeable side effects.  I took it for about 2 months.  I also use protonix daily for GERD.  My diet sucks so life without it would be miserable.
I had many bad days from days 200-300.  Since I hit 300, it has been like the sun breaking through the clouds on a stormy day.  I feel great physically and mentally. 
The best advice I can give you is hang in there my friend because better days are ahead.  I feel that your heavy use of the fake stuff is a major part of your problem with reflux.  That nic demon will always have its hooks in all of us, but I think you are on the right track.  Give up on the fake stuff for now...use gum or whatever for that oral fixation thing and don't worry about the weight gain.  @Athan (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=258), you are on my travel list for 2021..at least I won't have a hard time finding you!
As usual the puddin man delivered, lol. Thank you bud as this is very valuable info not only for me but for any addict that happens to find this feed.

Hey TF5- Great post.  Love it when you blog it out. 

Thankfully I never had the issues with my digestion.  I do however, have the anxiety and feeling of mourning in spades.  I never had a whiff of anxiety before my Nic stoppage...at least I never really noticed it.  I now wonder if it was always there to some extent but I was self medicating with Nic and never really knew it.  Now I wake up ~2hrs before my alarm on work days in a cold sweat and racing heart.  That's been fun!!  The good news is that this anxiety used to come every day and would last several hours into the afternoon.  Now I'm down to about 2 days a week and it's mostly gone within an hour of me waking/starting my routine.  Hope springs eternal...hopefully this too will pass.

The feeling of mourning is a bit different.  I often feel as if I'm missing something during the day; multiple times a day.  I feel a void that usually comes with a feeling of impending doom.  Usually this feeling comes and goes, even if it happens multiple times a day.  Some days, like today, it lingers and leaves me searching for a work around.  In the past, this is when I'd cave.  Now, I use my tools and reach out and make it to another moment.

I use fake a couple times a week but, as you say, it's a poor replacement.  I used to leave dips in for hours.  Now, once my brain realizes it's the fake shit in my lip, it loses interest and I usually spit it out within minutes.  I've learned to live with the itch and I've accepted the fact that I will probably never be able to scratch it again.  Such is OUR new lives.  I pray that the itch loses some of it's persistence in the future.

Hope this rambling helps TF.  One thing I'm absolutely sure of amongst this mess is that when I/we need someone to lean on, I can always find a brother or sister here at KTC to carry some of my burden and see me through to the next moment.  And that's what it's all about...OMAAT!!

Hold the line my friends

~HAG
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on November 17, 2020, 07:25:38 PM
So I would like to know:
1- is this what some of you are feeling (maybe some can relate)
I've had some reflux late at night recently though I don't recall it earlier
2- do you also feel like your in mourning (adds to my anxiety/depression issues)
well, 1,045 days in and I do get 'just one' thoughts. Not so much mourning as a desire for an old girlfriend kinda thing
3- did you use fake and for how long (250 days for me)
I used cinnamon sticks and still do from time to time. It was all day every day at first. Now I go days without them
4- physically how you feeling, any new things that quitting helped you find (Mine was silent reflux which I had for years but never new what caused the symptoms I had)
I've gained so much weight that the Coast Guard called and offered me a job as a navigational landmark, though I think that's more due to the gym shutdown for CoVid
5- did anybody utilize meds? (I had the prescription filled and in my hand but never used it)
I tried Chantix years ago but didn't like the effect it had on my cognitive thought
Thanks Athan, I like the navigational landmark thats funny.
Thanks for the shout out Doug and I appreciate all your support to reinforce my quit. 
When I quit, I had severe anxiety and a horrible sense of loss, like just losing a friend of 37 years.  Initially I tried all different brands of fake stuff but they were all a sad replacement for what my brain craved.  The fake did help some with the oral fixation thing and when I used alcohol, but it was a shitty replacement for the real thing and my brain knew it. I gave up on fake for a minute as my quit progressed and it seemed to actually reset my head.  I was visiting family in western PA where dipping and boozing go hand in hand.  I picked up some SM just to make sure I had a crutch if things got difficult.  That SM was great as my brain seemed to forget what cope long cut really used to taste like.  Anyway, fast forward to the present, I still use SM probably a few times a week.  My head will still crave the real stuff as I hit a trigger but it is quickly dismissed.
The anxiety was so bad that about four weeks into my quit I went to my doc and got a script for Wellbutrin.  That drug was like a miracle taking away most of the anxiety and I had no noticeable side effects.  I took it for about 2 months.  I also use protonix daily for GERD.  My diet sucks so life without it would be miserable.
I had many bad days from days 200-300.  Since I hit 300, it has been like the sun breaking through the clouds on a stormy day.  I feel great physically and mentally. 
The best advice I can give you is hang in there my friend because better days are ahead.  I feel that your heavy use of the fake stuff is a major part of your problem with reflux.  That nic demon will always have its hooks in all of us, but I think you are on the right track.  Give up on the fake stuff for now...use gum or whatever for that oral fixation thing and don't worry about the weight gain.  @Athan (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=258), you are on my travel list for 2021..at least I won't have a hard time finding you!
As usual the puddin man delivered, lol. Thank you bud as this is very valuable info not only for me but for any addict that happens to find this feed.

Hey TF5- Great post.  Love it when you blog it out. 

Thankfully I never had the issues with my digestion.  I do however, have the anxiety and feeling of mourning in spades.  I never had a whiff of anxiety before my Nic stoppage...at least I never really noticed it.  I now wonder if it was always there to some extent but I was self medicating with Nic and never really knew it.  Now I wake up ~2hrs before my alarm on work days in a cold sweat and racing heart.  That's been fun!!  The good news is that this anxiety used to come every day and would last several hours into the afternoon.  Now I'm down to about 2 days a week and it's mostly gone within an hour of me waking/starting my routine.  Hope springs eternal...hopefully this too will pass.

The feeling of mourning is a bit different.  I often feel as if I'm missing something during the day; multiple times a day.  I feel a void that usually comes with a feeling of impending doom.  Usually this feeling comes and goes, even if it happens multiple times a day.  Some days, like today, it lingers and leaves me searching for a work around.  In the past, this is when I'd cave.  Now, I use my tools and reach out and make it to another moment.

I use fake a couple times a week but, as you say, it's a poor replacement.  I used to leave dips in for hours.  Now, once my brain realizes it's the fake shit in my lip, it loses interest and I usually spit it out within minutes.  I've learned to live with the itch and I've accepted the fact that I will probably never be able to scratch it again.  Such is OUR new lives.  I pray that the itch loses some of it's persistence in the future.

Hope this rambling helps TF.  One thing I'm absolutely sure of amongst this mess is that when I/we need someone to lean on, I can always find a brother or sister here at KTC to carry some of my burden and see me through to the next moment.  And that's what it's all about...OMAAT!!

Hold the line my friends

~HAG
My exact thoughts Hag as yes after 8 days there has been a big change. I had that stuffing the fake in to replace that constant nag of the oral. I ended up with burning mouth/throat, unsettled stomach and dry headaches like I used to get early in my quit. The fake just didn't do the trick for me anymore and just was such a bother. Much better now but still have the nags but I feel its mind or matter now. Talking to Muleman and Stillbrewing actually helped me tremendously on that decision.

I did have that mourning/lost feeling ever since I quit. I never could put my finger on what it could be that I was feeling until I read somebody elses post regarding that. Can't remember who wrote it though dang it. After having some sort of tobacco product running threw my veins for 30 plus years I realized that it was just another part of my brain having to fix itself. I put a closure on that chapter and man do I feel better but in no way am I saying that I am better then anybody in that aspect. I have respect for those that need a little help getting thru it. I am married to an awesome lady that has serious anxiety issues so she is well versed on getting by without meds. We use essential oils to help cope as her brother and sister are on the meds and her sister has issues with the side affects. My wife said none of that for me so I have learned to adapt which was a challenge in itself.

Having a support group that will help you and CALL you out is awesome. I have absolutely enjoyed being part of KTC and find neat things about the site all the time. I try to be a good influence and mentor to whom ever will let me but the one that I am most proud of right now is my nephew. I am sure that my brother and I are the reason he started chewing and since I made my quit announcement to the family it sparked his interest. I think his momma is the one that really went after him but at this time he is 33 days quit. I have tried to get him on the site and be part of it but I understand his worries. I do share as much as I can from the site so he sees it. We can only do so much as its on them. Just like the attrition rate here at KTC we are not going to save them all but we need to keep fighting to keep the ones we do have.

PTBQWYT ODAAT and NNTOFS
Thanks for reading what little my mind has to offer and as always Stay Quit, Stay Safe and God Bless!
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on November 25, 2020, 07:34:38 AM
266/16 NNTOFS
So I have come to a conclusion for my experiment and wow I was surprised. So as some know the first number 266 is quit days, the second number 16 is no fake stuff used days and OFS is "or fake stuff". I was so surprised by how the fake stuff had an impact not only on my physical health but mental health. I am no longer dealing with the throat issues from the vinegar or cayenne powder, not having the upset stomach issues and no longer feel like I am burning up at the end of the day. I still have those massive craves and anxiety attacks after eating thinking I need a lipper but now its time for a stick of gum and let the saliva flow for digestion. Those triggers are interesting as I can see them coming and actually can get thru them with little issues. I still deal with the boredom when driving so I do lean on pumpkin seeds pretty hard yet. No longer have that mourning/lost close friend feeling which is great so I do believe that we need closure on our quit as it was such a huge part of life for many of us for a long time.
 Having to deal with a middle ear infection that has affected both ears has been no fun ride. On the 3rd med now for it and I am seeing relief but anxiety/panic attacks is super high because of the side effects and I hate taking meds for that reason. This has been a long ride on this quit and its not done yet but we are staying the course. Many have had issues for many months after their quit and I do believe that the chemicals in that crap have changed our own chemical composition. Will we be able to repair that damage I have no clue but it is different for everybody on the extent of damage.
So I hope this helps somebody in their quit but if not it at least gave them something to read and pass the time. Keep the quit going and reach out to your help when needed. If you have no help and want some send me a pm and we can share digits. We need the help more then we think so don't fool yourself thinking you can go it alone. Until next time stay strong, stay QUIT and God bless.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: 69franx on November 25, 2020, 07:55:24 AM
Great stuff brother,  thanx for sharing
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on December 30, 2020, 05:06:11 PM
So I finally hit the 3rd floor and never in my life did I ever think I would. Has it been easy? Well read thru my blog and you will find out. The greatest tool in the KTC toolbox is the other members that are at a text message/phone calls reach away. I have found that texting 13 different people in the morning can be cumbersome (until you learn the copy/paste trick, old guy here) but has done so much more then just posting and ghosting. It builds a trust network and family as you find out that there really are other people like you out there. So I will always be an advocate for KTC but its getting more involved with your group, sharing digits to get a group text going is huge because when one is late or missing that is the easiest way to reel them back in. Also if any issues arise then you can text the group or you know you can't post then put it out in the group to get a text pick up. I didn't want to think in the beginning that it worked and I am so glad I was wrong. That has done so much for me that it is hard to explain. I am still dealing with some health changes from my quit but it seems to be getting better everyday. My reflux I think I can control but if not then I will go on a med for it. I have been dealing with an ear issue for 6 weeks that turned out to be fungal which I think was self inflicted due to me cleaning the seed shell spit cup out with my finger and then using that finger to scratch me ear. Seed shells start to mold after a few days then stick to the bottom of cup, duh! Now I got my turn at covid, yes I mask, yes I take precautions, Yes I am considered essential, yes I deal with the public everyday, etc etc etc. Anybody can get it and everybody will as I have said that from the get go. It does suck and for everybody it is a bit different and thank God mine was mild for sure.
In the end I am still quit today and now nephew is 77 days quit. He did not want to join KTC as he is an even bigger introvert then me. This is why I say to get other people in your group or out of your group for support. He said that he never would have gone this far without my knowledge which I gained from being a KTC member. Like KTC on facebook then you can share away what they post as you never know who this might reach and make a difference to. If they are another platform I have no clue as I said before old guy here. Ok enough for now as I am sick of typing and correcting what I try to type haha.

Stay safe, Stay quit and GOD BLESS each and every one of you.
Promises made and promises kept
8/8/98
3/5/20
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: CTF on December 31, 2020, 03:40:23 AM
So I finally hit the 3rd floor and never in my life did I ever think I would. Has it been easy? Well read thru my blog and you will find out. The greatest tool in the KTC toolbox is the other members that are at a text message/phone calls reach away. I have found that texting 13 different people in the morning can be cumbersome (until you learn the copy/paste trick, old guy here) but has done so much more then just posting and ghosting. It builds a trust network and family as you find out that there really are other people like you out there. So I will always be an advocate for KTC but its getting more involved with your group, sharing digits to get a group text going is huge because when one is late or missing that is the easiest way to reel them back in. Also if any issues arise then you can text the group or you know you can't post then put it out in the group to get a text pick up. I didn't want to think in the beginning that it worked and I am so glad I was wrong. That has done so much for me that it is hard to explain. I am still dealing with some health changes from my quit but it seems to be getting better everyday. My reflux I think I can control but if not then I will go on a med for it. I have been dealing with an ear issue for 6 weeks that turned out to be fungal which I think was self inflicted due to me cleaning the seed shell spit cup out with my finger and then using that finger to scratch me ear. Seed shells start to mold after a few days then stick to the bottom of cup, duh! Now I got my turn at covid, yes I mask, yes I take precautions, Yes I am considered essential, yes I deal with the public everyday, etc etc etc. Anybody can get it and everybody will as I have said that from the get go. It does suck and for everybody it is a bit different and thank God mine was mild for sure.
In the end I am still quit today and now nephew is 77 days quit. He did not want to join KTC as he is an even bigger introvert then me. This is why I say to get other people in your group or out of your group for support. He said that he never would have gone this far without my knowledge which I gained from being a KTC member. Like KTC on facebook then you can share away what they post as you never know who this might reach and make a difference to. If they are another platform I have no clue as I said before old guy here. Ok enough for now as I am sick of typing and correcting what I try to type haha.

Stay safe, Stay quit and GOD BLESS each and every one of you.
Promises made and promises kept
8/8/98
3/5/20
Tip of the cap to you sir. 300 days is a great accomplishment. As for the COVID thing you were just unlucky. Get well.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on January 01, 2021, 02:08:35 PM
Now is the time to kick that can down the road. Kill the can is the place to be and sending tobacco packing is what we do. The quit will be hard but it can be done. The only way is to start and today is the best time to start. I double dog dare you to quit tobacco with me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on February 10, 2021, 08:24:23 PM
Today! Today I made it 343 days into my quit. I have never been tobacco free this long in over 30 plus years. Life is getting better and still dealing with lingering issues but after 30 plus we won't exactly be healed and free overnight. Life is much much better now then 200 days ago so it does get easier and better newbies so just stay the course. 343 is also another significant number for me as on that fateful in 2001 we lost 343 firefighters who ran in to save victims and lost their life in the process. I share a couple special things with them as 9/11 is also my birthday and at the time I was an engineer in our local fire dept. I know exactly what they were thinking when they ran into the twin towers and can say you don't THINK you just DO. One of the things I remember as we were at work listening to radio was the "all call" that came over the fire pager stating that anybody willing to help at ground zero were to report to a certain fire station for additional orders. We had 2 guys go but they were never allowed into ground zero. NYFD made the decision that evening before our guys got there that it was a recovery operation. All those that had volunteered that day to help was awesome. I am no longer with the fire dept but my heart is always with them and I shall always remember that fateful day when we lost 343. So today is double special to me, thank you to all first responders who made their final call that day and God bless their families.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on February 11, 2021, 06:20:53 PM
I just logged on to see if there is any updates from people and we have 16 guests. Don’t be a guest be a member and get rid of that crap today. Be free from the chains of nicotine and never look back. 16 guests, wow.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on February 16, 2021, 06:58:58 AM
19 guests this morning at 6:57 am. We have plenty of room in May 21 toll for 19 more. Time to step it up and quit folks. Come on in and be a quitter. You won’t regret it.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on May 05, 2021, 06:49:41 AM
427 today. Funeral today for my wives coworker who had mouth cancer and was 2 months younger then me. I did not quit until 4 years into his fight with cancer. Having his battle in the front of my mind has really kept my doom and gloom thoughts strong with every new pain or issue. I told a friend that we were invincible when we chewed and now we are just a bunch of pussies. Tired of fighting and feeling like crap daily but that demon WILL NOT WIN. Docs appt this morning to figure out my gut issues and pray it is something that can be fixed. I quit with you all and thank you for supporting me on this ride. Those are just some of my thoughts that I needed to get out there and off my chest.

I sent this message to all my text buddies and thought it might help somebody here. Stay involved, stay connected and stay quit. Anxiety and depression sucks big time but you can get help for that. Yes I have been inflicted with issues from day 1 of my quit and many I have fought thru. Don’t despair and run back to that can just because it makes you feel like a million bucks. I am a
30 plus year addict and I except the damage I did to myself. I pray everyday that the Lord will allow me to carry on to spread his message and tell about my quit. Those are my thoughts and I pray for all quitters daily that their quit stays strong. Thanks again and have a blessed day.

Doug
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: nick-Otine Free on May 05, 2021, 08:32:02 AM
427 today. Funeral today for my wives coworker who had mouth cancer and was 2 months younger then me. I did not quit until 4 years into his fight with cancer. Having his battle in the front of my mind has really kept my doom and gloom thoughts strong with every new pain or issue. I told a friend that we were invincible when we chewed and now we are just a bunch of pussies. Tired of fighting and feeling like crap daily but that demon WILL NOT WIN. Docs appt this morning to figure out my gut issues and pray it is something that can be fixed. I quit with you all and thank you for supporting me on this ride. Those are just some of my thoughts that I needed to get out there and off my chest.

I sent this message to all my text buddies and thought it might help somebody here. Stay involved, stay connected and stay quit. Anxiety and depression sucks big time but you can get help for that. Yes I have been inflicted with issues from day 1 of my quit and many I have fought thru. Don’t despair and run back to that can just because it makes you feel like a million bucks. I am a
30 plus year addict and I except the damage I did to myself. I pray everyday that the Lord will allow me to carry on to spread his message and tell about my quit. Those are my thoughts and I pray for all quitters daily that their quit stays strong. Thanks again and have a blessed day.

Doug
you are a inspiration around here Doug! you deffenitly impacted my quit and damn glad your keeping this thing down, but also front and center. Praying for you friend and i know you got this!
~nick~
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on May 05, 2021, 07:58:18 PM
427 today. Funeral today for my wives coworker who had mouth cancer and was 2 months younger then me. I did not quit until 4 years into his fight with cancer. Having his battle in the front of my mind has really kept my doom and gloom thoughts strong with every new pain or issue. I told a friend that we were invincible when we chewed and now we are just a bunch of pussies. Tired of fighting and feeling like crap daily but that demon WILL NOT WIN. Docs appt this morning to figure out my gut issues and pray it is something that can be fixed. I quit with you all and thank you for supporting me on this ride. Those are just some of my thoughts that I needed to get out there and off my chest.

I sent this message to all my text buddies and thought it might help somebody here. Stay involved, stay connected and stay quit. Anxiety and depression sucks big time but you can get help for that. Yes I have been inflicted with issues from day 1 of my quit and many I have fought thru. Don’t despair and run back to that can just because it makes you feel like a million bucks. I am a
30 plus year addict and I except the damage I did to myself. I pray everyday that the Lord will allow me to carry on to spread his message and tell about my quit. Those are my thoughts and I pray for all quitters daily that their quit stays strong. Thanks again and have a blessed day.

Doug
you are a inspiration around here Doug! you deffenitly impacted my quit and damn glad your keeping this thing down, but also front and center. Praying for you friend and i know you got this!
~nick~
It was good but small service and family was very grateful for who did show. I did not know him but he was a fellow addict like me. RIP Ken and may the people you touched make that decision to quit tobacco.

Doc appt went well and on meds for Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Starting there with all the symptoms and will check gall bladder later. Thanks for all the prayers and they were greatly appreciated. I am a firm believer that prayer works and will always pray for my addict brothers/sisters. God bless all of you.

Doug
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Addictx3 on June 28, 2021, 04:34:01 PM
Just poked through most of this thread... I really appreciate you venting and documenting your quit here.

I'm at day 105, and I'm blown away that I'm not pretty much back to 100%. But I guess it makes me feel better (and worse) that many people struggle with mental and physical symptoms for a LONG time. But we used nic for a long time,  so we cant expect things to be back to normal after a few months.

I haven't had any major symptoms, but just general junkiness. It comes and goes in intensity. Mostly just low, tired depressed with odd mouth/jaw feelings and minor headaches. It just wears on you.

How are you feeling nowadays?
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: macattack on June 28, 2021, 04:54:52 PM
Just poked through most of this thread... I really appreciate you venting and documenting your quit here.

I'm at day 105, and I'm blown away that I'm not pretty much back to 100%. But I guess it makes me feel better (and worse) that many people struggle with mental and physical symptoms for a LONG time. But we used nic for a long time,  so we cant expect things to be back to normal after a few months.

I haven't had any major symptoms, but just general junkiness. It comes and goes in intensity. Mostly just low, tired depressed with odd mouth/jaw feelings and minor headaches. It just wears on you.

How are you feeling nowadays?

@Thefranks5 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17642) can attest to his own experience, but I still have those days and I'm in the 180s. They're fewer and farther between but I still have "bad days". I have learned just to take the days as they come.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on June 28, 2021, 06:30:18 PM
Just poked through most of this thread... I really appreciate you venting and documenting your quit here.

I'm at day 105, and I'm blown away that I'm not pretty much back to 100%. But I guess it makes me feel better (and worse) that many people struggle with mental and physical symptoms for a LONG time. But we used nic for a long time,  so we cant expect things to be back to normal after a few months.

I haven't had any major symptoms, but just general junkiness. It comes and goes in intensity. Mostly just low, tired depressed with odd mouth/jaw feelings and minor headaches. It just wears on you.

How are you feeling nowadays?

@Thefranks5 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17642) can attest to his own experience, but I still have those days and I'm in the 180s. They're fewer and farther between but I still have "bad days". I have learned just to take the days as they come.
Thank you for digging up my thread and glad I could be of help @Addictx3 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=19861) Well my journey is good but just like @macattack (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=19057) said there are good days and bad days. My reflux I can keep under control but do get stupid and over do it at times. My gut issues started in April when I changed jobs so I took on more responsibility, more physical labor and much more to learn. I am not sure if it is IBS, gall bladder or something else but it has really settled down as the stress level has too. I have found that my anxiety issues do cause even more gut issues so I am trying to not get to worked up anymore because when I do it throws my gut for a loop. I have a major hip issue that needs attention soon so that gets anxiety up and we start all over again. I am learning what triggers my gut issues and am able to stop some triggers.

Overall my health is good but frustrates me because I also was thinking by 481 days in I would be feeling really good. But it goes to show ya how much damage we have done.

We are addicts and that is something that we need to profess.
Yes, I still have the desire to chew. Yes, I miss the taste and texture. Yes, I miss the comfort feeling it gave me for 30 plus years. Yes, I say all the time that my health was better when I chewed.
Now, I said that because I am being honest. I am an addict and always will be. My brain still has that desire and at the same time has the strength to say no. I still use fake because of that comfort feeling when my lip is packed. I still get the jitters when I don’t have my fake. I still feel like I had lost an old friend and I am in mourning. When something has been with you that long it is part of you so yes it feels like I am in mourning. I pray everyday that I will stay quit and that all addicts will find their freedom from their addiction. I have tasted freedom but my addict brain still won’t let go. I envy and am jealous of those that can just walk away and thats it. No craves, no jitters, no mourning and no major health issues. But we are all different and the Good Lord made us that way for a reason. Without him I would never have made it this far. Without him I never would have found the strength to fight and keep fighting. Without him I never would have found a wife who loves me and supported my quit while having absolutely no clue what I was going thru. I am an addict who will be a tobacco quitter until the day the Lord calls me home. I am far from being out of the woods and everyday it gets better. Stay the course and stay quit my friend. Reach out to the Lord for help and all the great supporters here at KTC. I need all of you in my life to keep me clean and I am proud and honored to be in yours helping you stay clean.  When you help others you actually are helping yourself. I have strengthened my quit by reaching out to others and helping them. My digits are yours fellas just ask in a pm and I will promise you everyday that I will stay tobacco free. Sorry it might be hard to read but yes I ramble and lose track of where I am going when typing but I am quit and blessed by the Lord for it. Stay safe, stay quit and God Bless.

Doug

Oh yeah if you decide to cave always smash your jewels in a drawer first. I would rather have my jewels swell up then put a dead plant in my lip that could kill me. Rip Ken. Tobacco killed you but your legacy will carry on.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: stillbrewing on June 29, 2021, 08:42:59 PM
Just poked through most of this thread... I really appreciate you venting and documenting your quit here.

I'm at day 105, and I'm blown away that I'm not pretty much back to 100%. But I guess it makes me feel better (and worse) that many people struggle with mental and physical symptoms for a LONG time. But we used nic for a long time,  so we cant expect things to be back to normal after a few months.

I haven't had any major symptoms, but just general junkiness. It comes and goes in intensity. Mostly just low, tired depressed with odd mouth/jaw feelings and minor headaches. It just wears on you.

How are you feeling nowadays?

@Thefranks5 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17642) can attest to his own experience, but I still have those days and I'm in the 180s. They're fewer and farther between but I still have "bad days". I have learned just to take the days as they come.
Thank you for digging up my thread and glad I could be of help @Addictx3 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=19861) Well my journey is good but just like @macattack (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=19057) said there are good days and bad days. My reflux I can keep under control but do get stupid and over do it at times. My gut issues started in April when I changed jobs so I took on more responsibility, more physical labor and much more to learn. I am not sure if it is IBS, gall bladder or something else but it has really settled down as the stress level has too. I have found that my anxiety issues do cause even more gut issues so I am trying to not get to worked up anymore because when I do it throws my gut for a loop. I have a major hip issue that needs attention soon so that gets anxiety up and we start all over again. I am learning what triggers my gut issues and am able to stop some triggers.

Overall my health is good but frustrates me because I also was thinking by 481 days in I would be feeling really good. But it goes to show ya how much damage we have done.

We are addicts and that is something that we need to profess.
Yes, I still have the desire to chew. Yes, I miss the taste and texture. Yes, I miss the comfort feeling it gave me for 30 plus years. Yes, I say all the time that my health was better when I chewed.
Now, I said that because I am being honest. I am an addict and always will be. My brain still has that desire and at the same time has the strength to say no. I still use fake because of that comfort feeling when my lip is packed. I still get the jitters when I don’t have my fake. I still feel like I had lost an old friend and I am in mourning. When something has been with you that long it is part of you so yes it feels like I am in mourning. I pray everyday that I will stay quit and that all addicts will find their freedom from their addiction. I have tasted freedom but my addict brain still won’t let go. I envy and am jealous of those that can just walk away and thats it. No craves, no jitters, no mourning and no major health issues. But we are all different and the Good Lord made us that way for a reason. Without him I would never have made it this far. Without him I never would have found the strength to fight and keep fighting. Without him I never would have found a wife who loves me and supported my quit while having absolutely no clue what I was going thru. I am an addict who will be a tobacco quitter until the day the Lord calls me home. I am far from being out of the woods and everyday it gets better. Stay the course and stay quit my friend. Reach out to the Lord for help and all the great supporters here at KTC. I need all of you in my life to keep me clean and I am proud and honored to be in yours helping you stay clean.  When you help others you actually are helping yourself. I have strengthened my quit by reaching out to others and helping them. My digits are yours fellas just ask in a pm and I will promise you everyday that I will stay tobacco free. Sorry it might be hard to read but yes I ramble and lose track of where I am going when typing but I am quit and blessed by the Lord for it. Stay safe, stay quit and God Bless.

Doug

Oh yeah if you decide to cave always smash your jewels in a drawer first. I would rather have my jewels swell up then put a dead plant in my lip that could kill me. Rip Ken. Tobacco killed you but your legacy will carry on.
↑↑↑↑That↑↑↑↑
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Stranger999 on July 02, 2021, 12:00:58 AM
Just poked through most of this thread... I really appreciate you venting and documenting your quit here.

I'm at day 105, and I'm blown away that I'm not pretty much back to 100%. But I guess it makes me feel better (and worse) that many people struggle with mental and physical symptoms for a LONG time. But we used nic for a long time,  so we cant expect things to be back to normal after a few months.

I haven't had any major symptoms, but just general junkiness. It comes and goes in intensity. Mostly just low, tired depressed with odd mouth/jaw feelings and minor headaches. It just wears on you.

How are you feeling nowadays?

@Thefranks5 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=17642) can attest to his own experience, but I still have those days and I'm in the 180s. They're fewer and farther between but I still have "bad days". I have learned just to take the days as they come.
Thank you for digging up my thread and glad I could be of help @Addictx3 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=19861) Well my journey is good but just like @macattack (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=19057) said there are good days and bad days. My reflux I can keep under control but do get stupid and over do it at times. My gut issues started in April when I changed jobs so I took on more responsibility, more physical labor and much more to learn. I am not sure if it is IBS, gall bladder or something else but it has really settled down as the stress level has too. I have found that my anxiety issues do cause even more gut issues so I am trying to not get to worked up anymore because when I do it throws my gut for a loop. I have a major hip issue that needs attention soon so that gets anxiety up and we start all over again. I am learning what triggers my gut issues and am able to stop some triggers.

Overall my health is good but frustrates me because I also was thinking by 481 days in I would be feeling really good. But it goes to show ya how much damage we have done.

We are addicts and that is something that we need to profess.
Yes, I still have the desire to chew. Yes, I miss the taste and texture. Yes, I miss the comfort feeling it gave me for 30 plus years. Yes, I say all the time that my health was better when I chewed.
Now, I said that because I am being honest. I am an addict and always will be. My brain still has that desire and at the same time has the strength to say no. I still use fake because of that comfort feeling when my lip is packed. I still get the jitters when I don’t have my fake. I still feel like I had lost an old friend and I am in mourning. When something has been with you that long it is part of you so yes it feels like I am in mourning. I pray everyday that I will stay quit and that all addicts will find their freedom from their addiction. I have tasted freedom but my addict brain still won’t let go. I envy and am jealous of those that can just walk away and thats it. No craves, no jitters, no mourning and no major health issues. But we are all different and the Good Lord made us that way for a reason. Without him I would never have made it this far. Without him I never would have found the strength to fight and keep fighting. Without him I never would have found a wife who loves me and supported my quit while having absolutely no clue what I was going thru. I am an addict who will be a tobacco quitter until the day the Lord calls me home. I am far from being out of the woods and everyday it gets better. Stay the course and stay quit my friend. Reach out to the Lord for help and all the great supporters here at KTC. I need all of you in my life to keep me clean and I am proud and honored to be in yours helping you stay clean.  When you help others you actually are helping yourself. I have strengthened my quit by reaching out to others and helping them. My digits are yours fellas just ask in a pm and I will promise you everyday that I will stay tobacco free. Sorry it might be hard to read but yes I ramble and lose track of where I am going when typing but I am quit and blessed by the Lord for it. Stay safe, stay quit and God Bless.

Doug

Oh yeah if you decide to cave always smash your jewels in a drawer first. I would rather have my jewels swell up then put a dead plant in my lip that could kill me. Rip Ken. Tobacco killed you but your legacy will carry on.
↑↑↑↑That↑↑↑↑

I'm at day 2,127 today.  When I arrived here, on day 6, another quitter who was just about at 1,000 days told me how much better it would get as the days stacked up.  That turned out to be true - the longer you quit the better you feel.  @Addictx3 (https://ktcforum.org/index.php?action=profile;u=19861) 100+ days is just the beginning.  As our quits grow we still need to take this one day at a time.   8)
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on July 17, 2021, 08:12:51 AM
500 days. Dang 500 days. Holy snikeys 500 days. Never in my life would I ever have imagined being 500 days tobacco free. After abusing myself for 30 plus years I have made a commitment that is as important to me as my wedding vows.  To all my family, friends and acquaintances thank you for I owe you big time. I challenge any of you or are just starting to quit or who are thinking of quitting to try it one day at a time. That is how its done and that is a proven way as how it works. Build your network of quitters, not only inside your month but all across the site. That is the greatest thing in my book is the list of help that you can call on. I made it 500 days because of the awesome people on this site. You know who you are and you are very humble about it also. I have a few that mean the most to me and are truly brothers. I have a special place in my heart for my bud in south jersey as you did save my ass. I also have a super special place in my heart for a man in Colorado that was the first guy that admitted that I saved him, (that humbled me and is an honor). But there is one that truly feels like a blood brother lost at birth who resides in Ohio. We have met and it is amazing how much we have in common and my boys even said that we could be brothers. To my month, The June 2020 Renegades, you welcomed me in at 78 days like it was day 1. To this day we are still holding together real well even though we have lost many. Without KTC and all the family that I have met thru here my life would be a different story without you. Again, thank you to everybody and here is to the march to 1000 'Sing and Drink'.

Oh yeah the network is open to anybody that wants to be part of it. You need help or just want another quit bud let me know. My digits are only a pm away. God bless you all

Doug

Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Keith0617 on July 18, 2021, 10:56:37 AM
500 days. Dang 500 days. Holy snikeys 500 days. Never in my life would I ever have imagined being 500 days tobacco free. After abusing myself for 30 plus years I have made a commitment that is as important to me as my wedding vows.  To all my family, friends and acquaintances thank you for I owe you big time. I challenge any of you or are just starting to quit or who are thinking of quitting to try it one day at a time. That is how its done and that is a proven way as how it works. Build your network of quitters, not only inside your month but all across the site. That is the greatest thing in my book is the list of help that you can call on. I made it 500 days because of the awesome people on this site. You know who you are and you are very humble about it also. I have a few that mean the most to me and are truly brothers. I have a special place in my heart for my bud in south jersey as you did save my ass. I also have a super special place in my heart for a man in Colorado that was the first guy that admitted that I saved him, (that humbled me and is an honor). But there is one that truly feels like a blood brother lost at birth who resides in Ohio. We have met and it is amazing how much we have in common and my boys even said that we could be brothers. To my month, The June 2020 Renegades, you welcomed me in at 78 days like it was day 1. To this day we are still holding together real well even though we have lost many. Without KTC and all the family that I have met thru here my life would be a different story without you. Again, thank you to everybody and here is to the march to 1000 'Sing and Drink'.

Oh yeah the network is open to anybody that wants to be part of it. You need help or just want another quit bud let me know. My digits are only a pm away. God bless you all

Doug
Congrats on 500 brother. Keep kicking ass every single day. Proud to quit with you.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: CTF on July 18, 2021, 10:09:56 PM
500 days. Dang 500 days. Holy snikeys 500 days. Never in my life would I ever have imagined being 500 days tobacco free. After abusing myself for 30 plus years I have made a commitment that is as important to me as my wedding vows.  To all my family, friends and acquaintances thank you for I owe you big time. I challenge any of you or are just starting to quit or who are thinking of quitting to try it one day at a time. That is how its done and that is a proven way as how it works. Build your network of quitters, not only inside your month but all across the site. That is the greatest thing in my book is the list of help that you can call on. I made it 500 days because of the awesome people on this site. You know who you are and you are very humble about it also. I have a few that mean the most to me and are truly brothers. I have a special place in my heart for my bud in south jersey as you did save my ass. I also have a super special place in my heart for a man in Colorado that was the first guy that admitted that I saved him, (that humbled me and is an honor). But there is one that truly feels like a blood brother lost at birth who resides in Ohio. We have met and it is amazing how much we have in common and my boys even said that we could be brothers. To my month, The June 2020 Renegades, you welcomed me in at 78 days like it was day 1. To this day we are still holding together real well even though we have lost many. Without KTC and all the family that I have met thru here my life would be a different story without you. Again, thank you to everybody and here is to the march to 1000 'Sing and Drink'.

Oh yeah the network is open to anybody that wants to be part of it. You need help or just want another quit bud let me know. My digits are only a pm away. God bless you all

Doug
Congrats on 500 brother. Keep kicking ass every single day. Proud to quit with you.

Proud of you Doug.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: bubblehed668 on July 20, 2021, 09:40:51 AM
500 days. Dang 500 days. Holy snikeys 500 days. Never in my life would I ever have imagined being 500 days tobacco free. After abusing myself for 30 plus years I have made a commitment that is as important to me as my wedding vows.  To all my family, friends and acquaintances thank you for I owe you big time. I challenge any of you or are just starting to quit or who are thinking of quitting to try it one day at a time. That is how its done and that is a proven way as how it works. Build your network of quitters, not only inside your month but all across the site. That is the greatest thing in my book is the list of help that you can call on. I made it 500 days because of the awesome people on this site. You know who you are and you are very humble about it also. I have a few that mean the most to me and are truly brothers. I have a special place in my heart for my bud in south jersey as you did save my ass. I also have a super special place in my heart for a man in Colorado that was the first guy that admitted that I saved him, (that humbled me and is an honor). But there is one that truly feels like a blood brother lost at birth who resides in Ohio. We have met and it is amazing how much we have in common and my boys even said that we could be brothers. To my month, The June 2020 Renegades, you welcomed me in at 78 days like it was day 1. To this day we are still holding together real well even though we have lost many. Without KTC and all the family that I have met thru here my life would be a different story without you. Again, thank you to everybody and here is to the march to 1000 'Sing and Drink'.

Oh yeah the network is open to anybody that wants to be part of it. You need help or just want another quit bud let me know. My digits are only a pm away. God bless you all

Doug
Congrats on 500 brother. Keep kicking ass every single day. Proud to quit with you.

Proud of you Doug.

Congrat on half a comma. Nice strong quit you have going there.
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: stillbrewing on July 21, 2021, 02:02:16 PM
500 days. Dang 500 days. Holy snikeys 500 days. Never in my life would I ever have imagined being 500 days tobacco free. After abusing myself for 30 plus years I have made a commitment that is as important to me as my wedding vows.  To all my family, friends and acquaintances thank you for I owe you big time. I challenge any of you or are just starting to quit or who are thinking of quitting to try it one day at a time. That is how its done and that is a proven way as how it works. Build your network of quitters, not only inside your month but all across the site. That is the greatest thing in my book is the list of help that you can call on. I made it 500 days because of the awesome people on this site. You know who you are and you are very humble about it also. I have a few that mean the most to me and are truly brothers. I have a special place in my heart for my bud in south jersey as you did save my ass. I also have a super special place in my heart for a man in Colorado that was the first guy that admitted that I saved him, (that humbled me and is an honor). But there is one that truly feels like a blood brother lost at birth who resides in Ohio. We have met and it is amazing how much we have in common and my boys even said that we could be brothers. To my month, The June 2020 Renegades, you welcomed me in at 78 days like it was day 1. To this day we are still holding together real well even though we have lost many. Without KTC and all the family that I have met thru here my life would be a different story without you. Again, thank you to everybody and here is to the march to 1000 'Sing and Drink'.

Oh yeah the network is open to anybody that wants to be part of it. You need help or just want another quit bud let me know. My digits are only a pm away. God bless you all

Doug
Congrats on 500 brother. Keep kicking ass every single day. Proud to quit with you.

Proud of you Doug.

Congrat on half a comma. Nice strong quit you have going there.
I take that march with you to get that comma.  Let's QUIT on!
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: nick-Otine Free on July 26, 2021, 08:35:33 AM
500 days. Dang 500 days. Holy snikeys 500 days. Never in my life would I ever have imagined being 500 days tobacco free. After abusing myself for 30 plus years I have made a commitment that is as important to me as my wedding vows.  To all my family, friends and acquaintances thank you for I owe you big time. I challenge any of you or are just starting to quit or who are thinking of quitting to try it one day at a time. That is how its done and that is a proven way as how it works. Build your network of quitters, not only inside your month but all across the site. That is the greatest thing in my book is the list of help that you can call on. I made it 500 days because of the awesome people on this site. You know who you are and you are very humble about it also. I have a few that mean the most to me and are truly brothers. I have a special place in my heart for my bud in south jersey as you did save my ass. I also have a super special place in my heart for a man in Colorado that was the first guy that admitted that I saved him, (that humbled me and is an honor). But there is one that truly feels like a blood brother lost at birth who resides in Ohio. We have met and it is amazing how much we have in common and my boys even said that we could be brothers. To my month, The June 2020 Renegades, you welcomed me in at 78 days like it was day 1. To this day we are still holding together real well even though we have lost many. Without KTC and all the family that I have met thru here my life would be a different story without you. Again, thank you to everybody and here is to the march to 1000 'Sing and Drink'.

Oh yeah the network is open to anybody that wants to be part of it. You need help or just want another quit bud let me know. My digits are only a pm away. God bless you all

Doug
Congrats on 500 brother. Keep kicking ass every single day. Proud to quit with you.

Proud of you Doug.

Congrat on half a comma. Nice strong quit you have going there.
I take that march with you to get that comma.  Let's QUIT on!
Belated congrats doug!! half dangglin is pretty bad ass, thanks for all you do

Nick-LTBE
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: Thefranks5 on August 04, 2021, 05:21:49 PM
You know what is refreshing?! Going to the dentist and having her say great job with your quit and your teeth/gums look awesome. For the first time in years I was not nervous going to the dentist. I always hated it as my teeth would hurt for days from all the scraping. The girl said that I have made her job much much easier by quitting. I told her with my limited diet (reflux, gall bladder issues) and chewing of gum that I was not sure how my teeth would be. Such a great feeling to have a happy dentist. Now I pray that the GI issues are from my gall bladder and I get that tested this week. So even though I have had plenty of troubles in my 518 days of quit I have not given up hope at all. I know that these GI issues will be resolved and I will get to feeling better soon. Has it been a struggle? Yup, but I would do it all again. Life is getting better and you just need to stick with it. I am so pleased to see people post about their highs and lows. We need to vent about those as that is therapy for many. I will continue to pray for all the addicts of the world no matter their addiction and pray that one day you all will be free. Stay safe, stay quit and God bless.

Doug
Title: Re: Garbage feeling
Post by: nick-Otine Free on August 05, 2021, 09:24:33 AM
You know what is refreshing?! Going to the dentist and having her say great job with your quit and your teeth/gums look awesome. For the first time in years I was not nervous going to the dentist. I always hated it as my teeth would hurt for days from all the scraping. The girl said that I have made her job much much easier by quitting. I told her with my limited diet (reflux, gall bladder issues) and chewing of gum that I was not sure how my teeth would be. Such a great feeling to have a happy dentist. Now I pray that the GI issues are from my gall bladder and I get that tested this week. So even though I have had plenty of troubles in my 518 days of quit I have not given up hope at all. I know that these GI issues will be resolved and I will get to feeling better soon. Has it been a struggle? Yup, but I would do it all again. Life is getting better and you just need to stick with it. I am so pleased to see people post about their highs and lows. We need to vent about those as that is therapy for many. I will continue to pray for all the addicts of the world no matter their addiction and pray that one day you all will be free. Stay safe, stay quit and God bless.

Doug
Way to GO man! those are great freaking wins! we tell ourselves that our issues would stop if we just dipped again? but look at you Win the day and you fought back so many times to prove those are lies and you are overcoming those issues with time. TIME is a powerful and valuable asset in all quits! keep being the inspiration you are Doug!
~nick~