Symptoms of Quitting Dip and Chew
Quitting dipping is not an easy thing… if you’re like most of us, when you quit you’ll go through some withdrawal symptoms… These are completely normal. That being said… if you are concerned about a particular symptom, by all means go to a doctor and get checked!!! This will help both your peace of mind and may catch something before it gets serious.
Dip Dreams – you’ve been dipping for years sometimes decades. Your brain is used to thinking a certain way with a certain amount of nic in it… once that’s taken away many people have “dip dreams”. These dreams range from mild to incredibly intense. Many times people will wake up after a dip dream and feel terrible because they really think that they caved. Many have reported that they can taste and smell the dip. Never fear… it’s only a dream.
Sores In Your Mouth (lip, tongue, cheek, etc.) – you’re done dipping… why does your mouth hurt so damn bad? You’ve got more sores in your mouth now than when you were dipping. What’s going on?!? There are a couple of explanations for this one. First, if you’re like most of us, you’ve found something to replace your dip to get you past the oral fixation (See Smokeless Alternatives). If you’re chewing seeds then there’s a TON of salt in your mouth that wasn’t there before. Also once you get dip out of your system the PH balance in your mouth is changing. Bottom line is this – get to a dentist and get checked out. But unless something stays around for more than two weeks you should be good to go.
Can’t Sleep – you’ve quit dipping and now you can’t sleep at all. Never fear, this is completely normal experience. It’ll take a while, but your sleep patterns will return to normal.
The Fog – you’re dizzy… you can’t think straight… your head hurts… you find yourself staring at your computer screen for hours on end not reading anything. Welcome to the dip fog. Your brain can’t handle the fact that you’re no longer feeding it dip. It might last just a couple of days and it might last a couple of weeks. Do not fret… once the fog lifts you’re well on your way to being dip free. Check out this article that Chewie has written about The Fog of Quitting Dip
Headaches – you might have one that brings you to your knees, or you might just have that dull thud feeling all day long — this too shall pass.
Sore Throat – If you’re a dipper and you quit you’re scared of anything that’s “off”. Why when you quit dipping do you suddenly get a sore throat? We’re not sure why but it happens more often than you’d think. Drink lots of water to keep yourself hydrated. This will help flush the nicotine and will help with your sore throat.
Anxiety – for years you’ve been dealing with life while medicating yourself with nicotine — it’s gone now and your body isn’t used to dealing with life without it. This condition will pass though you may want to talk to a doctor about some medication to take the edge off.
Problems “Going” – whether you know it or not, nicotine is a laxative. It’s helped keep you “regular” through all of your years of dipping. It takes some people a while to get their body adjusted to going without their natural dip laxative. Drink plenty of water and eventually this one will be “behind you”.
Hot Flashes – This one has been reported as a real doozy. Face, arms, legs, etc. can be very “warm” with some intense sweats. While this is a “symptom” it’s also been quite the trigger for some folks. Drink some water, get to the site and talk.
Depression – Many people have dipped for years or decades. Removing such an integral (though deadly) part of your life can lead to some pretty serious behavioral issues including depression. Talk to the folks on the boards as this is pretty common. As with any health issue please don’t hesitate to see a doctor as well. For more details about depression as a quitter click here.
There are a variety of other symptoms that have been attributed to quitting dip. If you don’t see yours listed, contact us and let us know about it!
It’s so inspiring to read all y’all’s stories. Keep on keeping on!
35 years old, and dipped a can a day for six years (with a year break in the middle), and got freaked out late last year when I started having trouble talking. Luckily, dentist said after looking at my mouth that I have nothing to worry about if I quit. I quit early this year, had two relapses, but have been totally clean for a month and a half.
Question about withdrawal; my cheek, especially my right cheek, often feels swollen, making it difficult to enunciate (especially words with multiple r’s), and aches every once in a while. Nothing looks strange except some scarring from my bite line. Should I be worried, or is this common post-withdrawal anxiety? Trying to steer clear of WebMD before my next dentists appointment.
Every person is different, but for me, after a couple of months my teeth and gums were back to normal. If I were concerned about it, I would go see a dentist. Hang in there, it does get better.
I dipped for about 2-2/1/2 years and quit 35 days ago. How long before my gums start becoming and feeling normal again?
Been chewing a can a day for about 2 years. Anyone else go thru tooth aches and soreness in the area you dipped the most? Also, I know I should go to the doc and get checked up. But I’m honestly scared to go to the doctor because of what I could possibly find out.
Tooth ache? Check.
Soreness in mouth? Check.
Throw in about 100 other symptoms as well. Believe it or not, it’s all normal. Go see your doc. I know you’re scared but it’ll give you an unbelievable amount of peace of mind when you’re done.
And think of it this way… would you rather have him catch something early or not catch it at all? You’ve most likely got absolutely nothing to worry about. Going to see your doc will confirm that and put your mind at ease.
I chewed for 30 years , began in the Army…I quit about 4 years ago, because, I was pissed paying $5 per can, and I went thru 2 cans per day.
I honestly still crave Kodiak everyday , but mainly if I am drinking a beer…I sometimes wonder if it is worth quiting. This is one thing in my life that I loved
Noah, Daniel and Pope if you all read the posts in here you’ll see that we all went through all the symptoms you are describing. Also just to make sure most of us went to our primary docs and dentists to give us peace of mind.
After the physical symptoms quit, then the mind games come in, watch out for those, they can make you go back to it.
I am on day 211 and it feels great, you all can do it too. It is time to get back to a normal life away from tobacco.
day 28 of my quit. I feel pretty good overall but I have been experiencing some numbness in my upper cheek especially in the morning and when I drink coffee. I am a big consumer of coffee and I read that quitting nicotine can cause your caffeine tolerance to be lower. Has any once else experienced that with regards to coffee? or the numbness?
Damn as soon as I posted that I got a little dizzy which I’m sure is a symptom… Well for those quiting for good. Stay strong it can be done… Everything is pissible with God on your side…
Amen Brother!!
And the word is Possible.
Hi,today is my 5th day since i quit dipping i have experienced sores in my mouth but i can feel them getting better…what worries me is since the day i decided to quit iv been having stomach diarrhea until today,I don’t know if it’s the part withdrawal or their is something wrong with me?
Pete I’m on day 11 and I’ve had nothing but soft shits. the bowel movements feel like 1990s hulk Hogan is squeezing my insides. I’m hoping this passes because so far this has been the worst symptom on the quit.
I will also say although I’ve substituted gum religiously in it’s place I’ve found the quit quite easy….this scares me. is there a late relapse stage?p
A possibility for the dizziness some are experiencing might be a stomach ulcer. No big deal to get tested for it and even just to start a prescription to get rid of possible high levels of bad bacteria. It happened to me because I created the conditions with dipping, booze, and coffee and not eating enough. I was super dizzy and almost fainted a few times. Definitely would come on with anxiety as well.
That is an excellent comment and health lead for us. I will consult with my Doc next time I go in for a check up.
Though, I am on day 164, I still experience chest pain, Gerd and bouts of dizziness. I was prescribed prilosec for the Gerd, but a dose of antibiotics may be needed in case there is excess of bacteria. Thanks Pete.
Kodiak Wintergreen dipper for 30 years. Recently turned 50 and BP is thru the roof. 2 tins a day. I love the stuff, lol, but I had to kick it. Day 4 is now behind me. What helped me is I have made quiting my full time job. All I have to do each day is NOT dip. That’s my only task. 3 weeks before I quit i cut consumption in half. What else has helped is I’ve resigned that I’m not going to sleep so I plan to stay up all night watching Netflix. I make a game of it. I eventually do fall asleep and last night was first night in 4 that i slept normally.
30 years for me as well with 2 cans of Kodiak a day as well. I realized it was costing me almost $5000 per year. Its been three days and a long way to go but i am committed. I AM DONE WITH IT. Now when my breathing normalizes and the dizziness subsides i will be relieved.
3 days is a huge milestone. Stay committed, there are demons working against you and you’ve got to fight them off every minute and day for awhile.
100 days is your next huge milestone, and you get there minute by hour by day fighting and kicking.
8 months for me and I still feel something should be in my mouth besides my tongue. Never going back though.
I wanna quit cause my mouth is getting painful but I can’t every time I stop I turn into a little bitch and ilsomeone gets a cal and forces it on me
Well Mr Lawrence, it is better to suffer for a little while, than have portions of your face removed. Quit while you’re ahead I would advise..
Take your weekend, lock yourself in your room. Make it about getting through those first three days. If you can do that, you’ve beat the physical addiction side of things. Put on youtube, watch some badass college wrestlers, or football highlights. Something that pumps you up, that makes you feel unstoppable. If I can do it, so can you.
I don’t recommend this for everyone, or anyone really expect those who can’t stop. I used vaping to quit. After 16 years of can a day, I was used to high nic levels. First, I never smoked and don’t like smoking so that was non issue. I liked I could control my nic levels with vaping to ween off the evil bitch. The first few days were hateful from all the other addictive stuff leaving the body, and lot lower nicotine. Lots of water helps. Lots of exercise. Good luck man, you will find your path to quit if you focus on it. Everyone’s is different for what works for them.
I’m 3 weeks out from quitting and also use vaping. I like it because I hate it .. lol it’s been easy to slow down on the vaping then it was the snuff. It’s been hard but with baby number 2 on it’s way I really needed a healthier lifestyle. Also quit drinking pop the same time lol hard life
Why does your mouth feel like you drank something really hot all the time?
It’s the freaking destruction done to your mouth on the way to healing. But don’t listen to me, consult with a dentist and make sure for yourself.
Been 3 months dip free. After 30 years , thought would never be able to say that. Anxiety/light headed scares me to drive. Anybody feel the same or have a way to deal with that?? Not a single urge to dip throughout the day, but often wonder if dipping would make the dizziness go away.
i just had nose surgery at the V.A. hospital in Nashville TN…i’m 51 years old, i been dipping since the age 13 yrs old…i dip average day 2.5 cans a day..i know all the facts, but i tell everybody I’m a crack head on dipping…so back to V.A. hospital after nose surgery i finally quit dipping, it was very hard struggle and having my family supporting me was a major factors and my twin daughters…thank you everybody take your moment too read my rambling message ….God bless you all and this great country.
Yeah Troy I’m going through the same thing I’m on 4 weeks to date, the lightheaded dizziness scares suck I find that just lying down for 5-10 mins and drinking some juice really seems to help. I believe the problem is we get low blood sugar from quitting but anyways keep going try exercising early in the day that helps with anxiety a lot.
Troy I am the exact same problem here. I am 131 days today and the fog is still here strong as ever with a ringing in my ears. I use the expression that it feels like I’m living life in a dream, nothing seems real and it’s like I’m not even in my own body. Has yours shown any improvement?
Hi guys! I’m Derek and after about 15 years and several attempts, I finally quit Cope snuff 5 years ago. Guy at work told me that he was able to quit by chewing the strongest nicorette gum for a couple weeks while your body “gets rid of the other addictive crap they add to it”. Then you are ready to battle just the nicotine itself, so you ween yourself down with weaker gum less often for another 2 weeks until you have 2 or 3 pieces a day. Then you go for it and never touch any form of nicotine again. It worked for me, but it was still hell. Nothing like cold turkey though! I worked out a ton and sat in the sauna a lot at the gym. I chewed regular gum for about 6 months, but it really made my jaw sore. Each year gets better, so i hope this gives u guys hope to carry on!
5 years? Hot damn, yes that gives me hope. I am only on day 135.
Great job! Stay with it and remember each day gets a little easier!
I am 3 days grizzly free and my feet will not stop tingling and my legs hurt , anyone experience this ??
I’ve experienced bouts of dizziness, muscle twitching all over my body, high heart rate with light activity, numb lips, burning sensation in my right foot. It’s almost as if quitting chew has given me peripheral neuropathy. But who knows I’ve been to the er 3 times in my first three weeks of quitting because I thought I was having heart attacks. I’m on day 32 now and my symptoms continue.
Hi all. Been dipping for 25 years. On day 7 dip free. Experiencing all the withdrawal symptoms listed here. I just woke up and I have a red patch on my gum that is bleeding. Gonna go to the doctor later. Any of you ever experience this when you quit?
No red patch, but i did get a white lump in my tongue that scared the mess out of me, but i went to Doc right away and was not cancerous, it went away after i stopped dipping. You’re doing the right thing, keep up the good work.
OZ1 I am in the same boat, woke up sunday. Was still dipping and found a white “canker sore” on the outside of my tongue, then one under it that had a blood blister. Scared the crap out of me. THrew everything in the trash and grabbed some nicorette today. I have a doctors appointment tomorrow to just be safe. both are not much bigger than a grain of rice, I have a torri on the inside of my jaw that causes misalignment. Coudl be i just bit my tongue in my sleep. I have bit my jaw from time to time.
Praying so hard this is nothing. Just when my life was starting to get interesting….. Lets hope we can get this straightened out.
How did your Doc visit go?
26 years old. chewed two cans of Grizz Wintergreen a day for 6 years. Went to the dentist a few days ago and was told I have pre-cancer spots on the lining of my gums. Been 5 days and haven’t had one.
Curious is anyone else has received a similar diagnosis and what steps they took.
To those who haven’t quit yet…. even with this diagnosis I still want one and will try to convince myself that “it isn’t a big deal if I just have one more”. This stuff should be illegal.
Hello – dipped for 40 yrs but broke my leg so they tell me I need to quit to help bones heal. Day 5 and other than a little trouble sleeping it’s just the habit of something in my mouth I miss. The good part (I guess) is I can’t drive and my wife is on board so I have no way to get dip even if I decided not to quit. I did order some of the tea leaf dip to try out.
Udate. Iam on day 44 I’m not craving no more Iam eating more then I was I have been sleeping good but iam still feeling dizzy it went away for few days then come back anybody else still have dizziness and know how to get rid of it?
Hey Aaron, yes the damned dizziness was a pain for me too. I hit the gym hard and also did a lot of walking, drank a lot of water and ate rabbit food for a while (Healthy food) The dizziness went away finally, but every once in a while I still have a tiny bout of vertigo. You may want to check your blood pressure to see if that is an issue. Good Luck.
OZ1 how long did your dizziness last for?
About 3.5 months
Dang 3.5 months well that does ease my mind some I been worried about might be something going on with my brain like a tumor or something but I went to doctor they said I had fluid behind my ear drum also which could be causing some of the dizziness i havent went for no ct scan or anything yet been trying to look more into this withdrawl deal before i go getting a expensive xray bill lol i just want to feel better I’m 2 months in now hopefully I will get some relief soon.
Hi there, please let me know when your dizziness went away. I am on day 111 and i am dizzy all the time. Its like 70 percent of the day. The only time i get some relief is when i take some anxiety meds but i dont want to live on these. I keep thinking i have an arty blocked or heart problem. I am 37 and in good shape. I just want the damn dizziness to go away. i wake up and dont have it and then as soon as noon or 1pm roll around it starts. Even if i exercise i am dizzy. Then late at night it will usually subside. Tell me how the outcome was if you ever see this
Update.. I’m on day 44 now I have been sleeping better not craving no we’re near as bad as I was eating alot more then I was but I’m still experiencing dizziness it went away for a few days then it come back anybody have any ideas how to get rid of the dizziness?
Congrats on 44 days Aaron, can’t help you with the dizziness though, everyone seems to have their own unique symptoms after quitting. I know you had mentioned the dizziness before. Is the room spinning or do you see waviness or is it light headed. Maybe a feeling you’ve felt before quitting? I’m no Doc, you can get it checked out and let us know what’s up.
Thank you Sean it has been one of the worst things I’ve ever had to do is quit dipping but I’m about through it now. My dizziness is kinda wavy light headed feeling the guy I work with smokes all day long and I’m trapped in a vehicle with him my doctor said being since I quit I could be sensitive to the nicotine in his cigarettes and that could be causing me to get dizzy but she act like she didn’t know what else could be causing it besides possibly that but who knows I just hope it goes away soon.
Anyone get numbness in cheek and sore on neck under jaw? 3 days in and I’ve diagnosed myself.
Stay away from WebMD for sure.
That said, yes, soreness and stiffness are super common. My jaw also “tingled” during my quit. These are completely normal. If you’re looking for peace of mind, there’s nothing wrong with going to see a Dr. but what you’re going through is completely common.
Yeah I’m in day 26 after 2 years of dipping. I’m experiencing numbness in my cheek bone area. Do you still have that problem?
Three days about in the books. I have failed a quit 3 other times over the last 14 years or so. Two very young children have given me a real strong reason to take better care of myself. Cravings haven’t been terrible to be honest. What has become unnerving is the numbness I experience in my upper cheek and some soreness and stiffness in my neck. Anyone with similar experiences? I’m trying to elude WebMD for sanity’s sake.
Thanks in advance!
Hey Ryan,
There probably will be more symptoms from quitting dip up coming too. “Snuff Satan” I call him. You’ve got to outlast him and never forget.
You have 2 young great reasons to quit. I quit an hour at a time, going on 4 months now.
Not sure if you ever have this addiction licked, but it’s a lot easier with each day.
1st 3 days are the real hardest, gets a little more easier after 10 days. At 100 days you will still reach for the can in your pocket a couple times a day and feel like something should be between my cheek and gum.
Keep thinking of the little ones and your responsibilities for them, and you don’t want them chewing like their pops either. Be strong and let time do it’s thing.
I have chewed Copenhagen snuff for 40 years two weeks ago didn’t buy more nit Shure can take it I didn’t spit that’s disgusting I always swallowed it got headache everything tast like sucking on old Penny’s very irritating this be third or fourth time I tried to quit I get very irritated my wife usually goes and get a can and pushes it on me
Hi all, I’m having crazy muscle spasms / body jolts when trying to sleep. Not quite like the normal “feels like you’re falling” jerk you sometimes get when you start to fall asleep. My whole body seems to tense up and my quads flex to the point my legs quickly extend. These spasms have persisted when trying to fall asleep the past 3 nights. I’m on day 6 without chewing. Dipped last 8 years. Has this ever happened to anyone else? I cant find much info about this symptom of nicotine withdrawal online. Thanks for the help.
Hi Zach, Greetings from Norway where I’m quitting snus after using it heavily for 20 + years. I quit cold turkey 49 days ago, and I can confirm: body jolts while resting/trying to sleep has been bothering me since I quit. They’re better now, but not quite gone. I don’t know why they’re there, and it doesn’t matter. I just know thay will pass. Stay strong.
100 days dip free. A lot easier, can’t let your guard down.
I still feel like something should be between my cheek and gums at times, sometimes 3 times a day for less than a minute each time. Sometimes not at all.
Those early days I thought would never end, did. Most symptoms are gone, except 18 new pounds which I’m working on. Try to stop any new dipper from the habit especially if you love them~
Way to Go Sean, that is a huge accomplishment. Keep it up and go for 200 now. I am on day 110 and still fighting it everyday, but the fight is not uphill anymore.
OZ1 did you ever experience dizziness? I’m on day 45 and still get occasional dizziness.
Dizziness for me for SEVERAL weeks into my quit. Totally normal.
Yes, I was dizzy for a long time, to the point that I wanted to go back to dipping so I could be “healthy” again.Don’t let any of that stuff scare you, it gets better.
hii my hubby stopped chewing tobacco. .. its been just 2 days and he is unable to swallow food… his throat pains lot… is this normal? he is too scared now it feels like severe throat pain … he isnt eating complete food and sleeps lot
It’s nicotine withdrawal and anxiety. Normal. Lots of us go through it.
Iam on day 22 of my quit I dipped redseal finecut wintergreen for 13 years iam still experiencing dizziness headaches and tiredness anyone else have symptoms like this that has lasted this long?
Hey Aaron I am on day 26 and had dizziness(light head), and feeling of nausea on day 24 still experiencing occasional sweats and chest pain…went to the Dr about two weeks ago EKG and BP were fine! Guess it’s just part of the symptoms..keep fighting bro! Dipped 1 can every other day by the way since I would say 2009 ish
Completely normal, keep on trucking.
I’ve chewed for 36 years and now it’s time to quit for good. On day 9 and it sucks!!! I just keep telling myself not cave.
You have time vested John.
I know you want to quit, stay committed. It does get easier.
Your brain has to do some time, you will be challenged over and over for awhile.
If you make it to day 12, it’ll be a tad easier.
Be in charge of yourself, do it for you and all you love.
When at day 300, you will still have lesser urges that’s when it’s time to help others.
Hey John, I have dipped for 39 years and tomorrow is day 7 for me. It has been a hard week. My body and my mind are freaking out but I am not letting it win. I have found some cinnamon jolly rancher hard candies are helping a lot and trying every kind of tobacco free chew I can get my hands on. Keep Strong!
I’m 32 and been dipping since probably 15. I will give some advise as this is my second time to quit. WORKING OUT and EXERCISE. It truly has put my mind in a different place and not hyperfocusing I’m craving and side effects.
Don’t get me wrong. I’m having crazy dreams, night sweats, and chest pains (anxiety). But I’m on day 10. Hare to say it. I’m struggling more now then I was in beginning….
But jogging and working out has helped me. It’s all mental. I also haven’t been drinking because when I Have a few beers it makes cravings worse.
Good luck. Don’t cave in. Once you pass first week your good!
I quit snuff two weeks ago. I’m still getting a weird withdrawal thing in my mouth. Like the nerves in my gums are hurting. Has anyone else experienced this? Is it normal after two weeks ?
Yes! My teeth even hurt, I’m 4 weeks down and mouth is starting to heal. Hurt has gone away.
Yes Phil, I had the same ache. Going into my 16 month of no nicotine after a 45 year bad habit. Mouth is great now, teeth are white and my wife says my breath is a 1000% Better. Stay strong, one day at a time. Once an addict, always an addict. There are still days I’d like to get a pinch of Cope, but I know better. Don’t ever confuse your toughness and think just one won’t hurt. Believe me.
Tony
Dude 45 years….bless you and thanks for inspiring me to stick with it. I been dipping around 10 years and just quit recently.
Yes Phil, that soreness takes a couple around 6 to 8 weeks to go away. I used tylenol to help get over that for about the first three weeks or so.
Stay strong you can do this! I’m on 2 months dip free, 47 years old and quit many times before. The addiction gets stronger every time you go back, so try to stay quit. Just my humble advice.
Hey all. I’m a dentist, and a dipper of 20 years. Have quit before but that was a while ago. Was back to a can a day habit Grizz. I’m on day 5 no nicotine, doing pretty well other than feeling completely depressed and hopeless, not sleeping well and other odd side effects like muscle spasms etc.
Anyway, it just takes toughness, commitment, persistence. All withdrawal symptoms will slowly improve. If anybody has any specific dental questions about dip/tobacco or quitting, feel free to ask. Good luck!
I’ve got a question and maybe it should be directed to a gastroenterologist, but what is more likely to develop oral cancer or esophageal cancer when dipping and not swallowing the juice? Does some of the juice still drip into the esophagus?
Hey there. So my jaw is little numb. I’ve been off for 14 days now. I used wintergreen and also TeaZa Energy mint pouches. Some research shows that there could be some numbness. I think it’s mental game for me. There is no pain or increase in numbness, just something I’m noticing. Any thoughts on whether this is common for dentistry?
Hey man I recently quit, about 3 weeks ago. Now that I have quit I have found sore on both sides of my mouth under my tongue. My throat is also very sore. Do you know how long this might last? Thank you.
Hey how long did those symptoms last?
Is numbness in the jaw after you quit normal? I only dipped for a month or so and I’m paranoid.
100% normal. I had tingling… It felt like it was literally going to crawl off my head. Hang in there.
Hey I have some questions!!!
Fire away! Happy to assist how we can!
Been reading on here and I feel so much better I’m not the only one going thru complete hell! Just wanna be normal again but I don’t know what normal feels like because I’ve been a dipper for 10+ years. The chills hot flashes headaches dizziness and anxiety seem to be pretty bad on days 10 11 and 12 seems like water and rest helps me I’m just gonna ride it out! Good luck every body!
Atta boy William. Ride this storm out, you have the hard part behind you. I’m at two months cold turkey (thank you) I still get urges, still reaching for the can, and dammit seems like something should be in my mouth, I’ve got strength too, head on head I’m gonna beat this crap and so will you. Don’t give your time back to the can. Bet on yourself.
Sean
It’s withdrawals I’m on Day 216. I wanna dip everyday, but I just think about it less and less. I’m also a member of a great support network. I’ve had the same exact symptoms as you. You’ll be okay. Just kick the can down the damn road and don’t look back.
Ouch!!! I’m on day 20 no chew after 30+ years and 3+ cans/week. 1st 2 weeks weren’t too bad. last few days I’ve been jonezing hard. was hoping it would get better quickly. 216 days of wanting to dip is a bit disheartening. Can say that I’ve saved over $45.
Will, great job. I dipped for 40 years. I’m nicotine free for 15 months now. I’d say 98% of the time now I’m good and don’t think about it. There is 2% where I could put a can of cope in I’d hate to start over so I can kick the heck out of that 2%. My life has changed for the better. Breath isn’t repulsive anymore, I don’t freak out when I leave home without a can. Plus think of all the cash I’ve saved. The physical ailments will pass, the mental anguish is what you have to be strong for. Don’t let temptation or old friends trick you. Just say no thank you. Oh. The biggest change was my blood pressure dropping. Doc even took me off my BP meds.
Hey All,
Name is Jayson, 43 yrs old.
Was dipping on and off for long time and most recently hard for last 2 years. I was using 2 cans of Copenhagen a day until this New Years Eve I went cold turkey. I’m on day 7 of this hell and can’t get away from myself. From sleepless to heavy sweats to anxiety like you couldn’t believe. The edginess and irritability is insane. I eat clean and started at gym again but man when does it get better? This site is a blessing to see I am not alone, thank you all!
You will be fine. It’s all normal withdrawals. Reach out to me if you need support.
Hang in there bud, the first seven days are the toughest.we are all going thorugh it, you aint alone.
My husband has been chewing for 28 years. New Year’s Eve was his last dip. Cold turkey. He’s foggy, says he couldn’t drive if he tried. Feels like he can’t communicate with anyone. Appetite very low. I’m sure this is all common but the poor guy feels like a psyco. He doesn’t want the 2 days he’s gone without nicotine to go to waist but I told him to use the patch or something. He took a paid day off today but that’s the last one he has. He may need to take rest of week off. Any thoughts on starting NRT at this point or should he gut it out? I quit smoking 15 years ago but I didn’t have these symotoms. Just cravings!
No NRT . Won’t be doing him any favors. 72 hours it takes for nicotine free system. Gets little monster out leaving big monster (brainwashing) left. 3 weeks and gets even easier than so forth. He needs to get the nicotine out as that is what we are addicted to.
I’ve been dipping Copenhagen for 22 years. Tried to leave it behind a couple times. I’m finally committed to doing it now. I’ve went from a can and a half a day to one dip a day. I do have anxiety and I’ve had it for years. I don’t know if it’s the anxiety or what but I get a warm sensation across my chest during the day. At night I’ll wake up with my chest cold. Then the anxiety kicks into high gear. Is this part of withdrawals or anyone else went through this? Can’t look up anything online about your chest without it being a heart attack. Planning on being completely dip free in three days. Nice to see other people’s struggles. Make me feel I’m not alone.
Hubby just quit so I’ve been reading a lot. I’ve read that tightness in chest is a symotom and could be realted to anxiety.
Yo Jason, I am not sure if you got checked out by a Dr., but I had to go to the ER twice thinking I had a heart attack, weird things happen when you quit, For me they just gave me some Prilosec for acid reflux and told me to relax and eat healthy, the panic attacks stir up the acids in stomach and come up the esophagus. That is probably what you are feeling, but by all means go and check yourself, I hate hospitals, but at least I got peace of mind after I done it. Good luck and hang in there.
It’s currently 6 days now since I put my last dip in. I’ve been pretty irritable and short tempered. I’m having trouble sleeping I can get to sleep just wake up constantly throughtbtge night.
I have tried so many times to quit and I can’t get passed day 4. The symptoms I get when I quit dip is extreme boredom,hopelessness and headaches anyone have any advice.
i’ve been dipping for about a year or a little longer and i feel tightness in my jaw after i quit i can’t sleep at all and i can’t stay still but i’m very tired but can’t sleep wake up constantly in the middle of the night is that normal
Hey yall, so ive been dipping grizzly pouches for about 4 months, i freaking loved it. But just recently a couple days ago I stopped and oh boy i have been freaking out tremendously. Im talking anxiety and a headache that goes down my neck, im feeling sore on my shoulders and neck and i cant concentrate at work, im kinda dizzy, i have this hot feeling on one side of my face and a tad bit numbness but nothing serious.I cant believe im feeling like this after a couple of days of quitting. But dont know if I should head to the doc to see if im really okay and nothings wrong. I have no sores in my mouth nor do i feel pain in my mouth, i have been going to my orthodontist every month since ive been dipping and he hasnt said if anythings wrong. I just hope im having bad withdrawals and not something worse 🙁
24 years old. Been dealing with Nicotine in all forms for 7 years. I’ve quit cigarettes then went to dip. Then quit Dip back to cigarettes. Now I’m on dip again but Snus pouches, grizzly wintergreen. Quit about 2 months ago. Then relapsed after trying to afford nicotine gum. Fucking way overpriced. I just want to quit permanently and be done with it all. But it calms me down, keeps me cool. Keeps me, me. Or so my body thinks. I know it’s mind over matter. I’ve done it before but always went to something else and replaced it. I fucking hate the withdraw. Mines begins every morning I wake up until I put one in. I describe it best as an empty, anxious, tense, pissed kind of feeling. It lasts until I put a pouch in. 5 minutes later it goes away. It’s almost like I just dip to avoid the feeling, not even because i personally enjoy it. Anybody wanna talk?
We’re here to talk… you’re doing the right thing. We’ve got thousands of quitters on our forums at https://forum.killthecan.org – it’s the best place on the web to get support and questions answered. You’re not alone – let us know how we can help!
Started Copenhagen over 30 years ago in high school. Went to Grizzly about 10 years ago cause of price. Stopped Grizzly 33 days ago and dipping for good. I sure as hell hope so anyway. Everything pretty much sucks right now, but I am done. I don’t chew anymore. Started Smokey Mountain which is like tar and nothing like my Grizzly, so that’s making my quit a little tougher. But, to your point…. Pissed, in pain, can’t think clearly, and missing my chew…
I feel ya brother, been going can a day + of grizzly for 11 years now. I’m on day 3, doing the Smokey mountain route with the occasional nicotine gum to crush those typical urges. Its hell on earth… but no chance I’m going through this again and chewing is not an option. Thanks for your post!
Most tobacco addicts use nicotine to self-medicate anxiety and/or depression, same as alcoholics and drug users. I dipped for 30 years and ceased to actually enjoy it after about 5 years. So the last 25 years was serving my addiction and self-medicating my anxiety. Like any other addict, once you stop using, you need to find other means to treat your anxiety and/or depression, whether it’s mild or severe. If not, you will cave. All the support here is a great first step, but some folks will need more support – therapy, medication, whatever. Take these issues and your quit seriously. If you want to PM me, I’d be happy to exchange digits and support your quit (as you and many others are supporting mine).
Scott, Been planning this for some time now before it kills me. I have to do this. I dip almost to the point of being drunk. Ive been dipping for 21 years and other than dip in my life i have no complaints.. My email is jscoleman@darpro.com I will check my email in the morning. Just read your post and thanks
Buddy
I am on day 10 and like some of the other stories that I have read on here, I’m having terrible anxiety. Arm and chest tightness and just an overall anxious jittery feeling. This sucks bad. I know after reading other people talk about it that I shouldn’t let it get to me, but how can I deal with it when it is all I think about.
Hey guys, I’m 25. I was an 11C and started dipping then for about 2-3 years.
Went through some stupid shit (schooling, ex, etc.)
Long story short, I’ve been chewing Cope longcut Wintergreen for about 10 months now. Can a day. And the issue? I love it so much. I genuinely love it.
But I’m a Registered Nurse in 7 days, and actually matriculate into med school May 2019.
I have quit cold turkey about 60 hours ago.
First day? Just really bad anxiety, something weird with my jaw like withdrawal from the actual feeling of it there, hot sweats of and on, very temperamental.
Second day? I shit you not. Right into my post 24 hour mark, flu like symptoms hit. And here I am at around 60 hours. Sore throat, generalized weakness, body aches, head stuffiness, nose stuffiness, eye pain, so tired. So bad I couldn’t stay at the hospital working. I had to go home. I feel like a bitch because it’s withdrawals most likely. But this is horrible.
I just quit about 2 weeks ago. It’s no joke. I told myself I was going to quit for a long time. I’ll be 40 in a couple months and wanted to be done by then started chewing when I was about 13 or 14. Cold turkey like many here. Had my first dip dream last night. Kind of weird, never had one before. Felt like I was in a skoal commercial. Haha. Having all the strange side effects, anxiety, jaw and tooth pain, no sores just achy off and on. Maybe from chewing so much gum which I never really did. Good luck to everyone who is on this journey as well.
I quit about a month ago and my anxiety is out of control. Anybody else feeling this way?
Absolutely, 100% normal. https://www.killthecan.org/anxiety-when-you-quit-dipping-dealing-with-stress/
190 hrs in, almost 8 days. Cold Turkey.
The first 60 hours are the hardest. The fog, cravings and feeling pocket for the tin. 4 days in I got a killer headache, which is now low grade barely know it’s there.That’s why I suggest now to others to quit at noontime Friday if you have a regular Monday-Friday job. Gives you time to recover. and take Monday off. You really need this personal time to deal with edginess, fog and all other.
My sleep changed dramatically, although no trouble sleeping. Now it is much easier, when I get a craving or anxious I get a glass of water and do something.. laundry,clean the car, dishes anything to distract and get another hour under my belt. Cravings are less and less now. Maybe 5 or 6 a day. And see the day when I say; I-used to do that stuff, many years ago, lm so glad I quit.
15 years and was dipping all the time except during meals and sleep.
Be smart and best of luck to all.
Zach hows your anxiety doing?
Hey guys. 25 years old and I’ve been a can a day since 18. I’m on day 6 and it sucks for sure. I’m definitely foggy, but this is the first time I’ve actually wanted to quit and that’s helping. It’s amazing the excuses you try and make for yourself to be able to have just one dip. “I already made it 6 days I can definitely do it so 1 dip won’t hurt” seems to be my brains go-to. Anyways, I don’t wanna have to tell my kids that daddy’s gonna have his jaw taken off, or worse. So it’s time to kill the can for me. Lots of gum has helped too, but the worst is when I get home from work. I always sat down to play Xbox and put in a honker from like 6pm to whenever I passed out. I miss that more than anything. Anyways, good luck guys, this seems like a great community and I hope I can contribute in some way.
I’m day 17 now after 7 years of chewing, after 2 weeks it definitely gets way better. Before that it’s like getting kicked in the nuts repeatedly but then it’s a weird transition to maybe one or two cravings a day if any. If you get the cravings it’ll go away after 10 or so minutes. Good luck on the quit and don’t put the shit in your lip.
Day 8 without dip, after 37 years of dipping, the fog and sleep issues are intense but not insurmountable, I just remember what my old drill sgt used to say “FIDO, fuck it and drive on”
Hi im matt 37, Same here, i quit cold turkey a little over two weeks ago. After chewing 1 to 1 1/4 Can od cope mint a day for 11 yrs. I Have had several withdrawal symptoms I didn’t realize it was from withdrawl. And was starting to think I was losing my mind. Until I found the site thank God. Was having hot and cold flashes, left side of my face and arm numbness. No concentration, And sime of this was staying with me most of the day. Been to the er several times with high blood pressure, and high heart rate. Anyone else have any of these symptoms. It’s been a scary 3 wks, in and out of the Drs with no help other than to tell me it’s anxiety. And trying to put me on several diffrent pills. Still having the numbness but it’s not as intense. Hoping the effects will subside soon.
Still reaching out guys if anyone can help please!!!
Hang in there buddy its tough I chewed for 35 years. I started chewing smokey mountain chew has no tobacco or nicotine. It has helped alot. Its not so much the nicotine its the habit of having chew between cheek and gums. Givenit a try it helped me.
Matt. Its a mental game, imagine your a soldier, or a ‘seal’ going into a gunfight everyday!!!! Is a dip even close to choosing life or death? That’s the choice!!!
You are describing the first few weeks of my quit… to a T.
Hot flashes. Cold flashes. Trouble sleeping. Tingling / crawling jaw. High blood pressure. Dizziness. Acid reflux. Etc.
Took myself to the ER twice because I thought I was having a heart attack. Rapid heart rate coupled with the tingling down my left side that we’ve all heard about. Nope. Anxiety.
They tried to put me on Valium but that knocked me for a loop.
Stick with it sir. Lots of water. Exercise. Get on the forums and chat it out. You’re not alone and you’re not going through anything that others haven’t. Keep fighting. The good thing is you NEVER have to go through this again… as long as you don’t go back to the can.
Thank you sir.
All of the above.Also intense back pain as and the rib pain almost knocks me out.15 days in and I’m not giving up now.The fatigue and feeling sick has also been intense at times with no appetite at all right now
9 days in and like yourself, acid reflux has been pretty bad. Also quit alcohol on the same day, not many side effects from either one, except the reflux. How long did yours last? I do take 40mg of Protonix daily.
Chewie…I’m 60 days quit…still having numbness and tingling down my left arm into my fingers. WTF?!?!?! Scares me.
Hello Matt
I have a similar situation but i have been chewing Kodiak wintergreen for about 20 years. I am experiencing your same issues, but i have not quit yet. I have been to many doctors and they say its anxiety. I am going to try monitoring my blood pressure with this is occurring. I hope i can quit. I have been cutting back. If i find any results i will contact you
Matt its all normal brother, I have been through what you are going through and maybe even worse. Its all anxiety and the body fixing itself. It will all pass. Instead of worrying take the withdrawls as a positive and realize its the body correcting itself
Hey man I have had some of the same symptoms on Day 5 now..went to Dr BP was fine and had ekg and it was fine! I thought I was having a heart attack. Checking out this site has helped a lot…as I am typing my hands are sweating now haha. Keep pressing on buddy! and I will do the same!
Been almost a month since I stopped cold turkey dipping over a can of Copenhagen a day. Still cannot sleep and my whole body has this anxiety feeling kind of like restless leg syndrome from my brain down. If this continues another month I’m going to start dipping again or drinking, which I haven’t done in years
Dude im in the same boat. Im in college after finishing a 6 year enlistment as an 11B in the Army.. I had a dip in from when i woke up to right before i passed out. Now i quit cold turkey, but im super dizzy and the teachers at my school just piss me off so bad. I feel like im drunk all day too (the negative effects, not the fun ones)
Smoky mountain snuff helps, but idk how much longer i can go.
First off, chill. You are an 11B for crying out loud! You mean to tell me you don’t know how to handle mental and physical stress after six years? You quit dip man…you’re not in the box anymore. Just suffer through it and the crappy feeling will go away on it’s on. YOU can do way more than the nicotine addiction and cravings are telling you you can. Don’t give into a $6 piece of tin or plastic can of cancer. It’s really all it is. It’s not good for you. It’s not soothing (once the addiction wears off and you realize you’re under its control). It ain’t even human. You can’t talk to it. It’s not a battle buddy that’s gonna save your ass. Hell it ain’t even a gun. Quit that shit and in a couple months use all that saved money and buy yourself a nice pistol or rifle. You can do it. I’m an 11B and I did it 153 days ago. It’s as easy as making that promise to yourself everyday and holding yourself accountable. Yes the cravings suck, but they will subside in time. Please don’t google shit and don’t drive yourself crazy about cancer. I’ve been there and got the t-shirt! Get into a quit group on this site. It will surely help. Email me gregoryevans79@gmail.com if you need anymore help. Hell share my email if you need to. Good luck and “Follow Me!”
Marcus i am on week 6 of quitting and i can tell you it is getting better and better day by day. From day one to week 5 i was in the fog i had anxiety/ panic attack but i promise you drinking or starting to dip again will only make things worse and the guilt alone will send you into a deeper anxiety. Best thing to do in my personal opinion is to tough it out. Cut out things that could also trigger anxiety like coffee or energy drinks and alot of sugar. Everyone suffers the quit differntly but i promise when all those symptoms finally subside you will feel great and also proud and i also promise that the pride you will feel will make you never want to start up again.
Best of luck,
Brandon
Man you’re okay it’s withdrawal. It happens to the best of us. Many a person before me has gone through it, I have gone through it, and you are too. Many after will go through it as well. You quit for a reason. Just use that as your daily motivation. Quit once every morning. Make a promise to yourself. Don’t give in. You’ll be okay. I was. You will too.
Marcus have your withdrawal symptoms gotten better?
Been one month today that i quit cold turkey after 28 years of chewing from sun up till midnight I’ve got a grip. Been to the dentist twice after 20 years of not going and have my 3rd visit coming up on the 16th. I’ve had the sweats, the child, stomach pain on and off since I quit. Never had any of these feelings before the quit. I’m hoping they will pass however I am going in for my first full physical on the 28th
77 days in and now getting a very red and hot face. The fog has finally lifted but this intense heat on my face is driving me insane. Anyone else ever had this this far into quitting
Something I’ve learned. Dipping depleats magnesium in the system. Unless you live by the ocean and eat lots of seafood, you are probably magnesium deficient. Kidney stones are another correlated condition with magnesium deficiency. Taking a magnesium supplement greatly helps with sleeping and regularity, and may help prevent more stones.
Been dipping for roughly 16 years quit one week ago today. Just wondering if anyone else had a burning sensation on the sides of your tounge and sores on the sides of tounge. It’s not super painful just kind of annoying. But scary st the same time.
I am trying to quit but the pouches are helping and my tongue burns on the top did yours
Hi Brandon
After how much time ur symptoms went. I am currently having same symptoms.
I want to start out by saying wow I’m a bit relieved at how many others struggle with this withdrawal. I’m on day 27 and im still having weird symptoms. Idk if it is normal for anyone else but the past three weeks have been constant brain fog/weird feeling, headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, muscle twitch, you name it. It’s been the longest three weeks of my life, but from what I’m reading it only gets easier from here. Glad to see everyone cutting this poison out too.
I have the same symptoms. On my third day. Heart palpitations, dizzy, sick, hungry and no appetite at the dame time. Powerful stuff is snuff.
Yes everyone has them….well most everyone experiences similar feelings. I had all of what you describe. I’m on Day 153 quit. I’ve quit twice before even longer than this and I ya e come to the conclusion that nicotine withdrawal sucks and it’s exactly what you describe. However, the thought of cancer sucks way more. That’s why I’m quit for good this time. I’m too old and too poor to keep throwing away money on “cat litter” I stuff in my lip. I’d rather live a long time and buy cool shit with my dip money. Good luck, and I promise you’re okay and you haven’t said anything that hasn’t been experienced by other people once before.
I’m on my first week quiting Skoal Citrus 2 cans a day. Slight symptoms not much… I do have a cough .. Was wondering if its a symptom or not .
Right with ya T.J.