What To Expect When You Quit Dipping
So you want to quit dipping and you would like to know what to expect when you do. We’re not going to pull any punches around here, it’s tough. That’s why we’re all here. This timeline has been put together over the years with the input of THOUSANDS of quitters. It has been shown to be remarkably accurate from the time you STOP USING NICOTINE.
Days 1 through 3 – Pure hell. You will walk in the fog. Nothing will seem real. Your brain is wondering where the hell its fix is and it is going to punish you until you come up with it. 72 hours, that’s all you need to get the nicotine out of your system. This is where you start to deal with the physical withdrawal associated with quitting dip. Drink lots of water. Read, post, read and post. Don’t take your anger out on your loved ones. We always tell everyone………Make this quit about YOU. If you quit for your wife, girlfriend, boyfriend, kids, mommy or daddy, you will resent them during this period. Quit for yourself and come in here to rant. Yell at us. Bitch at us. We can take it. We’ve been there.
Days 4 through 20 – Here comes the mind games. The nicotine is out of your system now. You will still have some physical things to deal with.
- Cravings
- Irritability
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Inability to Concentrate
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Constipation, gas, stomach pain
- Dry mouth
- Sore tongue and/or gums
Yep, you have this to look forward to. Your brain is rewiring itself. It isn’t used to being in an oxygen rich environment. Your body is responding in kind. Everything is a mind game now. All the cravings you have are actually due to triggers. Triggers are events where you are in a situation you would normally dip in. Mowing the grass, playing poker online, playing golf, working on the car………you get the picture. Keep drinking water, use seeds, the fake stuff, whatever you need to keep the dip out of your mouth. Remember, oral fixation is part of our habit, something you will eventually need to break. For now though, use all the tools you have.
Days 20 – 50 – You’re winning. Life isn’t great, but you probably had a couple of nights where you actually got some sleep. You might notice you’re going to bed earlier than you normally do. Not staying up to get in that last dip. You may notice some sores in your mouth. You’re thinking, “great, I quit dipping and now I have cancer.” You almost certainly don’t. Your mouth is healing itself. Tiny ulcers you’ve had for a long time are healing. We recommend you visit your dentist around the 30 day mark. Don’t be a pansy, just do it. He or she will be very supportive and they can explain the sores much better than we can. Don’t let your guard down. Don’t go out drinking with the fellas or the girls. We also recommend that you don’t drink for at least the first 50 days. Drinking is a huge trigger event and it weakens your resolve.
Days 50 – 70 – Cruise control. Life is really good. You still think about it, but this is good stuff here. Some people may suffer anxiety attacks during or a little before this stage. Some doctors say we dipped to relieve anxiety anyway. Some people can push right through this, others need a little help. Talk to your doctor before you quit or immediately after you quit. They will know what to do. Some give Wellbutrin or Lexapro. Lots of people in the support community take or have taken these medicines and can help you with the affects. Don’t wait till you get to this stage of the game to talk to a doctor. You’ll cruise through this stage much easier if you know how to take care of the anxiety or at least know it’s coming.
Days 70 – 90 – Late term craves, the doldrums, the blahs, the blues. Some people end up feeling like they are right back at day 1. The fog, the haze, the craves. It can be a tough time. You need to let people in your group know this is happening. Time to circle the wagons to get through it. It usually only lasts a few days. Fight through this and make sure your order your HOF Knife or Coin. Here are a couple of articles about this time period which we refer to as “The Funk”
Days 90 – HOF – Houston, resume the countdown. Enjoy the hell out of these last 10 days. You will be celebrating with your group as you all enter the HOF. It is a great feeling and an accomplishment you should not take lightly. Do something special for yourself and your family. They put up with your sorry ass for the last 90 days and they deserve something too.
100+ Days – Stay vigilant. Use the tools you have, to continue beating back any cravings or urges. You will still experience dip dreams and longings, but you are fully qualified to beat them down. Continue to post roll with your group. Get into the newer groups and help somebody out. Pass it along. Live the dream.
Day 18 Still Quit.
18 x 5.50 = 99 buckaroos saved
Day 19 and No Tobacco
19 x 5.50 = $104 bones saved.
DDD
It’s great to hear from you, and you didn’t let jayp or myself down, you motivated us daily during our initial days of our quit, I am not here as often, but please help the others as you helped me and jayp last year!
I will be here more often as look forward to your HOF speech!
Jeff
Day 417
They say that by smoking one cigarette depletes your life span by up to 11 minutes, I wonder how many minutes it depletes from Men when we finish a whole can of snuff?
Source: http://www.tobaccofactfile.org/how-long-do-i-have.html
Well, here is what I found out.
“The amount of nicotine in one dip or chew can deliver up to 5x’s amount found in one cigarette.”
Here are some more devastating facts:
“1 can snuff=as much nicotine as 4 packs of cigarettes (Mayo Clinic)
Thirty-minutes of chew gives same nicotine as 3 cigarettes
A two-can/week dipper gets same nicotine as 1.5 pack-a-day cigarettes
8-10 dips per day is same amount of nicotine as 30-40 cigarettes.”
Source: http://www.lassencoe.org/tfree/4-6/SPIT%20TOBACCO%20KILLS.pdf
So if we do the math. 11 minutes x 5 (amount of nic on snuff) = 55 Minutes.
Almost a full hour that we subtract from our existence on this world and I suspect that it is the quality of health that would suffer, in other words we may still be alive, but in really bad shape folks.
I read a story of a nurse that saw first hand the last days of a dipper, incredible amounts of pain the man showed he said, that the most powerful anti-pain medicines could barely give him rest. That was the time the nurse stopped dipping.
For me, it took a good health scare, What is it going to take for you to quit?
I read on this site also a 15 year old kid boasting, ” I love dipping, I ain’t never gonna quit” I hope that he was only cruelly joking, but if he wasn’t I left him a note as well as other folks that read his note. Mine said “You will quit, one way or another, mark those words”.
Forgive my rant, I guess I am going through the fog.
Day 17
I know I switched to dipping from cigarettes after getting addicted to chewing nicotine gum, and in general I am glad I chewed instead of smoked the past few years, be it the gum or the snuff. No more switching for me, I have to avoid nicotine products.
So true, I think they call it mind games or something. Truth is the physical addiction goes away in a few days and nicotine is no longer in your body, but the addiction in your mind is what needs to be fought all the time.
The first time I tried my quit, I spent horrendous amounts of time thinking about the quit, about the snuff and all related activities associated with tobacco. This time, I am really taking a more natural approach, just live life naturally and when the cravings come, I think to myself, NO!! you are not going to defeat me and move on, so far it’s worked.
Day 16
I am thinking about how much I saved by just quitting this habit. 16 days = 88 bucks, not bad, cant wait to continue saving….
I have a “15 minute” rule: Every time a craving hits, do something, ANYTHING, for 15 minutes. You should find at that point your mind is on something else. Like anything, you get better with practice. It’s the mental stuff that is toughest, and I find this a highly useful tool.
Yes, I made it to 100 days, was ready to post my speech, and all hells broke lose. Bad decisions during life get you in the wrong direction, so what does one do? go back to the only thing he knows. So I failed and 10 months later I am getting back on my feet. I wish I could say because of a great altruistic and superhero commitment like most of the folks here, but rather because of a more frightful episode in which I thought I had gotten Cancer. I had to go see the Doctor and get myself checked out. Fortunately it was a false alarm, but I took that as a sign, that it was definitely the time to quit. No more playing around, no more romanticizing memories of tobacco, that stuff is for real and can take your life. For those of you who are here counting the days like I was, I can give you advise, Don’t worry about days gone by, worry about the now, when the craving hits, say NO! put it out of your mind, I don’t care how you do it, once the moment passes you will be ok until the next one comes. I realized that by controlling the cravings (The Mind) it is more important than the amount of time you are off of it. Believe me you can be dragged down at anytime, no matter how much time you are away from it. Stay strong guys!! to Jayp and jeff, sorry guys, I let you down, but I am back and stronger this time.
Day 15
DDD, If there is one thing I learned from the quit, don’t judge. I am happy to see you back at it again. I understand how hard it is to shake the dam habit. As I type, I STILL am using sunflower seeds for the fixation, although it’s quite a bit less. I rarely use the fake stuff…since I am at a point now, it doesn’t do what it did for me a year ago. Just feels strange plugging and spitting now. I was told this would eventually happen…and it did. I understand people cave, the important thing is to learn from it. I learned back in the 90’s when I quit for 6 months…there is No such thing as “one” dip. I’m a nicotine addict, one dip equals a restart…I know this. lm just glad you didn’t have cancer and returned here again…if you need help, reach out Hombre! Welcome back, time to reclaim that mountain!
-JP
1 year 69 days
On day 33 having some symptoms that say they are only in day 4-20. Within the last week i have been really gassy,constipated and having stomach aches/pain with some acid reflux crap.Is it possible i had these later than expected is it normal to have these things happen later than the 20 day mark? Still fighting urges and trying my best still have anxiety and still am not through this yet.Im a normally healthy person so when i have weird things such as the stomach crap now it freaks me out and want to know if its possible to happen after day 20.thanks
Hang in there Sauce, sounds like the ,30-40 day symptoms still. You’re right around the corner from it just being spotty. I had the heartburns bad until I was put on an acid reflux script. I only need that script occasionally now.
If the worry gets too bad, go have a chat with a doctor. It sounds like the status quo with your symptoms though. You’re kicking ass, keep up the fight!
-JP
ya im having heartburn acid reflux and gerd with a acid stomach ache feeling…not too bad but enough to be bothering me all damn day…cant be from anything other than this…hope it goes away if not ill ask my doc for a script maybe.thanks
That is probably from the absence of the nicotine, Sauce. Sounds like you are managing…keep it up, you’re doing great!
-JP
You all hang in there, you are doing great.
BRO! Where the hell you been? You were here at 100 days and went Jimmy Hoffa on us. Me and Jeff wondered what happened to you.
-JP
Day 11 here. Its been rough so far but much better now that I am sleeping again. The first few nights seemed like they would never end. Work is more stressful than ever and every time I finish a meal I try to find my dip for a few seconds before I remember…
Stay strong everyone! Thanks a ton for posting I wouldn’t have started to quit without stumbling on this site.
It’s week 2 with me. It’s hard. But I found something that helps with the ride home from work and all the out door things I did with chew. I bought a 10 variety pack of jakes mint chew. I tried 5 so far and the best one that mimic chew so far is the straight mint. The straight mint gives you that little burn in your lip like chew. It’s all natural so I think it wouldn’t do any harm lol. Seems to help when the urge hits.
Hang in there bud! I’ve quit before and I got stressed at college and got back into it. Have a teeth cleaning in 2 weeks! I’m at day 1 and done for good this time!!
8 days here since my last dip. I went with Chantix for the first week, cut down to 1 dip a day on that, then the last week no chew and still on the meds. Today is day 2 without any meds and its hard for sure.
So, sitting here at work, used to gut/swallow a small chew to hide the spit when the 3:00 lul hit. hard but doing it
Thank god for the site, had to LOL with the “staying up late for that last dip, and the constipation”. So true!
I haven’t dipped in 14 hours and I have been having the worst mood swings snapping at everyone then feel bad I’m being so angry and want to cry. my 6th time trying to quit, such a horrible addiction.
I have given up different nicotine products, and each time I know that my emotions are going to bubble up. It’s as if the nicotine/tobacco suppresses them. Thinking about it that way helps, as does trying to lay low in the early stages of withdrawal.
DAY 2…THIS SUCKS!
-ROUP
Days 1-3 are the toughest Roup, no doubt. The first 30-40 are too, but nothing like those first 72 hours, hang in there and stay committed to your quit!
-JP
JayP how you doing man? Glad to see you are still here helping people. Someday I will be back as well!
Anyone reading this that is in the middle/start of their quit keep up the fight its worth it.
Having been thru one round of chemo so far, I would do the first few weeks of quitting any day over even one round of chemo. Keep this in mind when you don’t feel like you can make it thru a crave, I’ve been thru both and they both suck, the quit will make you stronger!
Steve
Quit 11/3/14
Hey Steve, good to see you here again. Haven’t seen much of the usual guys here on the board. I still pop in here and there to help folks out. I feel I owe it to the new quitters…since others helped me. I am 1 year, 64 days in, but am reminded of the hell I endured those first 30-40 days by reading what others are going through….I am never going back! 25 years that shit had a hold on me, all done!!
I was wondering how you were doing Steve, last I read was doc found something. Sounds like you are doing much better (I hope). Keep in touch, you don’t know how nice it is to hear from the people that helped me. Stay Strong my Friend and I pray the treatments continue to work!
-JP
Day 15 dip free….can sleep a little better and not as moody but still feel lethargic and my damn throat still feels sore making me think somethings wrong with me…like how can this still be going on after 15 days….how long do i have to wait for this to go away….This sucks!!!!
so lethargic again today on day 16, throat still sore
There’s nothing wrong with your throat, unless it’s wrong with mine too. Relax, you’re doing fine. I’m at 18 dip free days myself, so we can help each other.
One trick I’ve got is to put a cotton ball in you lip where you used to keep the tobacco. Grab a spit bottle and go to town on that bad boy.
Great idea (Cotton Ball) CaseyB! Never thought of that one. I am trying now (after a year+) to not use anything anymore. Although the seeds still seem to want to be in there!
I think its great you are here offering up your help to people, take note folks, reach out to people on her. This is exactly what I did to get to my 100 day mark and beyond. Strength is definitely in numbers!
-JP
so ur throat is still sore as hell too..? I dont need a cotton ball i just want my throat to feel better and not be lethargic and ill be a happy guy lol
I can’t help you guys when it comes to sore throats as I didn’t experience the same. Might not be a bad idea seeing your Dr. as this could simply be a coincidental issue with something completely unrelated to your quit. As for the lethargy, I can relate and what helped me was exercise – whether it be intense or simply a casual walk….anything to increase the metabolism and create a distraction. Hang in there…it will bet better with patience and determination….I promise you that.
Rich S, – 346 days QUIT
probably doesnt help my throat that ive been smoking alot of 420 for the anxiety and the smoke from the bowl is harsh on the throat making it worse….ill fight thru it.
you still hanging tough Smeegs? I would think the fog is still over you, but you are over halfway to the 30-40 day mark. Hope you are staying strong!
-JP
trying man….day 22 a little better but fighting the demons now and still some side effects…throat dry mouth and anxiety but not as bad….fighting it.
I’m at the start of day 3 and feeling rough
Congrats on 3 days of freedom Bill, hang in there!!
Those first 3 days are tough, no doubt, but the reward of being nicotine free, is priceless!
-JP
On day 5 in my probably 8th attempt to quit over the past 30 years…I can’t sleep, have wicked gas and I’m still sweating…I will take my own advice this time as well as give some … There is no such thing as I’ll just have one and be done again, I’ve made that mistake every time and I jumped back on the train like a fiend…one day at a time fellas ?
Hang in there Bill…all those things you say are happening to you, gas, sleeplessness, sweats…all normal. Keep up the fight!!
-JP
Day 9 and still staying strong…will admit I have used the fake stuff (smokey mountain) to get me through work a few days…I guess that’s cool right
Totally cool. SMC (and any of the other fake dips we have listed on our Alternative page) contain no nicotine and no tobacco. Use them as you see fit. They’re a great tool.
Absolutely! Nothing wrong with that fake stuff. I used them myself way into the first year of my quit. Eventually you won’t need them as much, then not at all. Keep on keeping on!!
-JP
Bill,
I dipped for 30 years as well. Can and a half of skoal
It’s been 60 days for me and a hell of a lot easier.
It’s nice not having heart burn. It’s pleasant not having disgusting breath. It’s refreshing sleeping for 8 hours. Convenient not stopping for dip all the time. Peace of mind knowing I won’t have a stroke or get cancer.
Just hang tough. Ask yourself, if someone paid you 100 grand to quit for 6 months would you do it for sure?
After day 45 it’s pretty damn easy. You still get occasional cravings BUT NOWHERE near what your experiencing now.
Thanks tony i chewed a can of Copenhagen a day …I’m on day 14 and staying strong(not that I don’t crave one) but besides being irritable still I am sleeping better now and enjoying waking up and not having my mouth taste like someone slept with their ass or feet in my mouth…thanks
On day 9…still cant sleep that well..feel tired…no energy…always irritated…moody….no patience….felt dizzy a few times….dry mouth sore throat….lots of stomach noises etc….this sucks….is all of this normal and do i really have to wait til day 20 to have zero of these awful symptoms? Brutal!!!!
Deez…to answer your question, YES! All symptoms of detoxing your body. Hang in there. I’m thinking at least 2 weeks these things last, possibly the first 30-40 days (as they did for me). I went through a whole slew of strange things in my first month. I really tried not to focus on all of the bad…it was tough not to though. But I will tell you, I will never forget them, especially when I re-read them by folks like yourself. Just hang in there, try pounding the water, get some exercise in if you can. These 2 things really help to burn off the “shitty feelings” you experience and to flush all those toxins out. Day 9…you’re right on track, keep up your fight, I promise it’ll get better!
-JP
Hey deez
You are in the “fog” of your quit. Drink water, go for a run and keep fighting. I was in the fog for 30-40 days, hang in there.
Jeff
Quit 8-2014
I’m at the stomach pain, constipation, sore throat, mouth sores, freaking out about every little thing… this is normal… right? I’m going on 3.5 weeks
“Freaking out about every little thing” is what this site refers to as “the nic bitch”.
Although you have this poison out of your body at 3.5 weeks, its what you ran to every time you were stressed. So your mind is “freaking” out at life, because you aren’t feeding it the drug anymore…in simple words, NORMAL! And YES, it is “right” too. Hang in there buddy, all of this will start to get mild and will eventually just disappear around the 100 day mark. Then you will just have scattered, hit and miss days. You’re doing awesome!
-JP
1 year, 52 days quit
im on day 22, and i have gas indigestion sore throat mouth sores and im freaking out thinking things are wrong with me all the time.I dunno if this is normal or not but im just telling u what im going thru and im close to the same time dip free as you.
Hayden,
Sorry to read about your setback man. It’s not permanent because you are moving forward into a new quit. Your screw up and the pain it is now causing you is actually a big help to me so maybe you can look at it as something good coming from it. I’m fighting every day to put this addiction behind me and today I’m sitting on 92 days without Copenhagen. Reading what happened to you gives me a healthy fear to not let my guard down. The road you’re taking to freedom from addiction is a longer road but maybe it’s a road that will help other guys like me not to fall into the same trap. Good luck man.
Ben H
Hey Guys,
I never thought that I would be back to this site again…. but here I am. Back in July of 2014, I took the 100 day challenge. I dipped a can and a half of Grizzly Mint every day since 2008. I decided to go ahead and quit cold turkey and get all of the nicotine out of my system which was pure hell. As the days progressed and the cravings weakened, I was feeling pretty good. I was gaining weight, muscle, and my teeth were looking healthy as hell. I had the support of my beautiful gf and family through this difficult period. However, on day 101 to be exact, I did something that I absolutely hate myself for. Prior to this point, I really didn’t give dipping a 2nd thought. I conquered the brutal beast head on and swore to never return. But you see, my gf is on the dance team at the campus I go to and we went to a Halloween party that all of her friends were at. The party was a blast especially since there were kegs and nearly half naked women. I did not realize that this would unfortunately bring up a trigger. I told my gf I needed to by a can so I could have one dip. It was a social dip and it would be one dip only. Well that one dip turned into one can and here I am a year later. The bad part is that I realized as soon as I put a dip in that it wasn’t as magical as I thought it was going to be. My 100 days of anticipation for a dip was a bust.
For the past year, I have been lying to others as well as to myself. I have pretty much dug a hole I cant really get out of. I have tried to tell to come clean that I have been dipping but my gf got pretty heated so I pulled back. Everyday, I buy a can of Grizzly Mint and I put it in a Smokey Mountain can to hide the fact that I am a slave to the nicotine and tobacco. I’m tired of the B.S and want to quit once and for all. I’m hoping that there are some guys on this site that will help support me since everyone I know thinks I’ve been clean for a year. Today was my first day of quitting.
Wish me luck.
Hayden,
Welcome back to the site. I cannot say I will be here everyday, but I will offer some support when I pop through. The important lesson here, you now KNOW there is no such thing as “one dip”…or a social dip. You have to realize you are an addict. And I do not mean that as something to ashamed of. Hell…I AM an addict. My friend just asked me the other day “do you think you could have just one dip and be ok?” I answered “I doubt it”. The fact is, I probably could just have one and then I would suffer until I got the craving under control. Why even risk it? I’ve put in wayyyyy too much work to get where I am today, without the nicotine, that I would never do anything to ruin it now…no way! I will always remember how tough that first 100 days was, no way in hell I want to venture back down that avenue.
If I can give you any advice, learn from this mistake you made. Quit means quit! I am not preaching at you, I am just hoping that you learned something this time around.
As you know…there are plenty of wonderful smokeless alternatives out there today…become a pro on the non-nicotine variety and pass along the education to the new comers, it certainly helps your quit, when you can help and educate others to quit…Good Luck!!
Quit4Life
-JP
1 year, 42 days QUIT
Oh yeah….Smokey Mountain Mint is pretty solid…I am sure you’ve had it.
ALSO, the Triumph MINT is probably the best MINT flavor I’ve had. Hooch has a pretty good Mint too, not very strong on the taste, but the texture is REALLY close to the real thing. Get yourself some fake stuff and ditch the nicotine!
-JP
I quit dipping grizzly wintergreen today and all I wanta know is does it ever get better I mean I feel like hell the day has just drug on surely it can’t get worse
Kyle….first few days are a bitch but it will eventually get better. Drink plenty of water, exercise, and do everything in your power to distract yourself. Most importantly, avoid those persons, places, or things that trigger your craving for a dip. You might also want to contact your doctor to obtain a prescription for Xanax which will take the edge off. Good luck and stay strong…..you’ll be happy you did!
The hardest part it seems is not knowing what is from the lack of nicotine and what’s a MS symptom either way it sucks as much as I know dip was bad it seems like that was my one constant through everything else now I’m taking it away and it’s driving me crazy as far as the Xanax I can’t take any kind of medicine like that it interferes with some of my MS medicine
Jump back on that horse Hayden. I quit 15 yrs ago long enough to get my blood clean for a life ins policy test & I managed to stay quit for a yr. Same exact scenario as you, one with some brews led to starting up again full time. Do it again bro, you done it once & you can do it again.
Good luck man!!! You aren’t alone. I hate myself because I’m at day 1 today. I went 115 days dip free and let something so small break me I used every excuse to ruin my streak. I’ve even jeopardized family relationships and pushed people away. I hope you are still going strong. Your post gives me strength and shows me I am not alone.
On day 5! Got a ton of ulcers in my mouth. Sucks!
Keep at it brother, I’m going to be right behind you.
trying to quit.been dipping about a can a day for 10 years.On day 2 cold turkey right now.headaches,feel tired,huge urges,cant sleep,waking up heart pounding thinking im gonna die,anxiety.this shit sucks.im trying to stay strong.anyone else have these symptoms?
Deez,
Yes. First 3 days are the worst. Brutal. All those symptoms are normal. Keep reading articles and posts on this site. Better days ahead.
Franco
day 128
Thanks…ill keep fighting through it,,,,brutal is an understatement.
DEEZ, Definitely, I felt like a friggin ZOMBIE the first 3 days, then things tapered off around the 30-40 day mark. As FRANCO said, the first 3 are BRUTAL!
Just hang in there, all those symptoms you described, we’ve all went through and came out the other end…in the end, they are all worth the suffering for the short term, keep up the fight!
-JP
Able to sleep a little better now and the headaches gone but now im freaking out cuz i have a sore throat.i have ulcers in my mouth and my tongue and mouth feels so dry.I am freaking out….this shit sucks…i cant believe i put something in my body that would cause this shit…
Congrats Deez, will echo words given by others here. Drink water, get sunflower seeds, stay away from alcohol for a little bit, suck on candy, get fake dip, whatever it takes to get you thru the crisis that is the 1st week of your quit. Remember, IT WILL GET BETTER, FIGHT THRU IT.
All good advice though I would add a few other things. First, try to avoid those people, places, or things that trigger your urge to dip. Second, Smokey Mountain is THE best alternative to dip tobacco…especially the Wintergreen and Cherry flavors. Finally, get yourself a prescription for Xanax which really helped me to minimize the anxiety. Hang in there….it will get better!
Rich S. – Day 330
hang in there. it will be tough. you got this!! i went through the same. couldn’t think clearly
Is that you Rick? Seems to be an awful lot of Ricks out here, hahaha!
Anyway, hope al lis well with you and yours!
-JP
1 year, 42 days QUIT!
Jeff,
Very glad to hear to see you cross 1 year milestone. Hearty congrats. Keep going buddy.
Shiva
Hey Jeff,
That is great news, glad to hear and keep up the fight.
Sorry guys I’ve been MIA, I went to the Dr. for strep left with an order for an ultrasound left that with a cancer diagnosis. Surgery is Wednesday, should be able to take it out and be fine from there.
Check your nuts and if they hurt get a doctor to check them!! I had some pain in my right one that I never would’ve went to the Dr. for but I happened to be there and asked on the way out, lucky I did.
Take care,
Steve
Steve, I am sorry to read that man. I guess if there is a positive angle, is that you found it early! I will throw a word up to the man upstairs for you tonight.
Hope your surgery goes well, keep us posted!
-JP
Made it 1 year! Killthecan.org gets most of the credit! Meeting jayp, DDD, shiva, Steve, Rick August 6 was one year! I also look back at my own battle to quit. Over the last year seeing so many quitters is a motivation for all of us, sure… Many came here over the last year and did not make it, but… Even if you fail, we welcome them back
Thanks again to my friends
Jeff
1year. 2 days
Congrats Jeff, great job.
Jeff,
Good job Jeff buddy, cancer is nothing to mess with but today Doc’s know what they are doing and treatments much more effective.
I’ve been fighting the Skoal battle for past 5-6yrs and I’ve got a story that goes with it. I thought you might find it interesting.
KEEP UP THE TOBACCO BATTLE!!
In late 2006 I got a pain in my lower back, nothing out of the ordinary just thought I lifted something too heavy and/or wrong. Not long after I had appointment with Doc to have my ears cleaned and mentioned hurting my back and he did quick check and found lump, did ultrasound, I went into surgery, Doc’s removed cancer nut and tumor in my back shrunk instantly. I started light chemo just to be sure cancer was fixed. I still have 1-nut left and am now fine. However, just nicely into nut chemo treatment my blood counts got all screwed up. Docs did some quick checks and found I had AML Leukemia for my 40th birthday and needed to have Bone Marrow Transplant if I was going to see 45yrs old. They stopped nut chemo and shipped me to another hospital 5hrs east and it’s their where I received a hopped up chemo-potion, total body radiation and my transplant from an unrelated donor. Treatment was successful no cancer, it’s been seven yrs. clear now, but hard on my head. I’m left with messed up memory issues.
In early 2007 I went back to work, had to do few more hours in the office to accommodate my memory troubles, no big problem, just glad to be back at the job.
In 2009 things were going great, good health, good family, good job everything was perfect. One day wife, kids, family and I were together for birthday meal at our house…..and all of a sudden I went into spell, trembling and shaking uncontrollably. I crashed to the floor. I was not long coming out of this seizure but found out soon after that it was a result of the damage to my brain from Bone Marrow Transplant and this was my first spell. This put me off the road (no driving) for 6 months, hard too work from home and office but computers and the odd driver make a lot possible.
Just nicely getting adjusted to this and again all was well. Then one evening the wife annoyances she’d had enough and was leaving………another nice kick in the only nut I had left. Got a deal fixed with her, bought her another house in town and pay monthly support to help with kids who ended up spending more time with her in town as it made things easier for them manage.
And now…………, here comes the chew………!!
While I was going to College used to have the odd chew of Skoal, was on school woodsman team and competed in spitting competition, nothing major but the odd 1 turned into more frequent tastes, and eventually to a can every 2-3dys. I quit chewing in roughly 2yrs later when I’d starting dating my wife (the one who’d left) and never touched Skoal again until 2009 when wife was out of house and I went down exactly the same path as in college. It was no time till I was into a can a day habit, stuck at home, off work, on a disability pension, working to beat seizures and not driving.
So, in Summers………
Bought new zero-turn lawn mower and in the summers I mow lawns for half the neighborhood……….., cut a little firewood……….and do some small engine repair.
Through the winters…….
I do few odd jobs and a little snowmobiling, ice-fishing and rabbit hunting.
Once again, everything seems to be working out and before I am diagnosed with some other form of Cancer my 2015 goal is to quit chewing my Skoal!!
Today is DAY 1
I’d appreciate any and all help you may provide.
……………….LET’S GO TO WAR……………….
Cheers
Mike
Mike,
My quit day was August 13 as well. The day after my 39th birthday. Sorry to read so many tough experiences for you but sounds like you are resilient enough to push on through. Can a day skoal for me since I was 19. I am with you. Critical day 3 just started. Let’s git r dun!
I’m on day 6. I have been chewing since age 16. I am 44 years old (can a day). Last Tuesday I just decided to give quitting a try. I really hope that I will be successful. I’ve never really tried quitting before. I’ll keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers. There is strength in numbers.
Still going strong here. Have not used any alternatives just straight up cold turkey and water. Today is easier than yesterday for sure. May have to use some alternative chew to get through the work week. Please keep posting updates!
Congrats Franco.. We all old timers know, it ain’t an easy thing to go… Way to go..
Shiva
Day 400 something
Hi everyone, my name is David and I figured I would share my story/thoughts. I’ve been dipping for about 15 years. This last year I’ve felt like i was doing it more and more after my divorce, always an excuse to throw another in. Well I’ve decided to quit. I haven’t completely quit but hear me out. What I did was went cold turkey for three days, had head aches, dizziness, the works. Well after the three days I gave in and bought another can. I dipped twice a day till it was gone and went four days without it and without any symptoms other than the oral fixation. Bought another can and I’m doing one a day. When this is gone I’m gonna go as long as I can and instead of buying another can I’m going to buy some of the fake stuff. Once that’s gone I’m just gonna go without it. I didn’t have as strong of an urge to do it this time and thought about goin fake this time but my mind got the best of me. It seems to be working though because I can’t remember going 4 days without a dip in years. I’ll update again once I get on the fake stuff and let you know how it’s going. I was just amazed how I didn’t have any symptoms the second time and figures I would share. Maybe it was because my body wasn’t as used to having it all the time and I’m slowly trucking it into not needing it? Who knows. Best of luck to yall
Hi I’m new an just found this site. Just wanted to share in case someone else was going through the same thing. I’ve dipped for 15 years and my second child is due in December so I’ve have decided to quit. I’m 7 days in and I am really hitting the wall and craving constantly. I played my first round of golf in 15 years without a dip and it was the toughest 4 hours in my 7 days. I am a scratch golfer and i bogeyed the first 6 holes and went into a small panic attack. This is normally when I throw another pinch in to calm down. I had my seeds and gum but nothing helped. I don’t know how I made it but I did. There is some satisfaction in that but not much. I’m playing again in two days (this is my real trigger) so I can keep proving to myself I don’t need it.
My rant. Best of luck to anyone else out there trying to quit. I’m 31 and I know what your going through. I love dip as much as anyone but its time to quit.
I completely understand, I am currently on day 80 of my quit. I am also a scratch golfer and got hooked dipping while playing college golf, everyone on the team did it so I joined in. I just graduated this year, so I decided to quit. I suggest not playing golf during the first two weeks of your quit. Good luck and you’ll get through it. Try and not play golf with people who dip also. Best of luck.
Matt, it is so much harder not dipping when your playing golf or fishing. True. But nicotine causes strokes, which is permanent. These cravings are not.
I dipped for 28 years and quit 60 days ago.
So we’re around the same time table. Still hanging in there?
The other night I was reading (and dipping, naturally) when I had this vision equating my dipping (10+ years) to an adult form of breast-feeding. Without going into detail, the vision was repulsive enough and felt true enough that it motivated me to quit.
I’m 2 days in. I’m tense and cranky, but also forgetful and aimless. It’s a strange combination. I just found this site googling for some insight while I absent-mindedly missed a meeting. I feel much better after reading through a lot of your posts so I thought I’d add to it.
Many Thanks,
Richwad
Richwad, keep checking in & posting. Without KTC, I would’ve never quit, plain & simple. You got this buddy.
Today is 100! Feeling (freakin) good… thanks to KTC. I’m not much of a poster and the few times that I have commented it’s been out of respect to this site and to everyone who shares their quit. I def would like to thank JAYP, Chewie and Jennny Kern… I don’t know you but you have helped me with my quit more then you could imagine. Anyone who is reading this or is having a rough day just remember this 25 year Kodiac slacker is 100 days quit and if I can do it so can you. I’ll never forget days 1-3 or day 12 or day 75 (my first chew dream). I’m going to chill out today and enjoy day 100!
Thanks and Peace
Franco
Franco congratulations buddy, glad to hear you made it!!!
Enjoy it
Congrats on the first floor Franco!
Glad we were all here to help you get there. Don’t take the 100 day feat lightly, it is a HUGE accomplishment that a lot that come here do not get to. By now you have proven to yourself that quitting and remaining quit is a definite possibility, I’m proud of you man, keep quit and pop through occasionally to let us know how you’re doing!
-JP
1 year and 12 days QUIT!
Ive been dipping for about two years just under half a can a day over this weekend my jaw began to really hurt so i have decided to quit dipping for good. Any idea what would cause my jaw to hurt really bad? also have felt really light headed after the first 24 hours without a pinch
Nicotine is a muscle relaxant. Once you’ve taken it out of your system, it’ll take your body a while to get used to not having it. One of the side effects for some people (myself included) is the tightening of the jaw. Hang in there. It’ll pass.
I noticed that whole I dipped, I would unknowingly hold an underbrush positon. Holding my jaw locked in this position began to give me pain around my ears chin and jaw line. Also, having you tongue pinned to the roof or bottom of your mouth can really tire the muscles around your jaw out. Your jaw is getting tired of holding steady. You may also being bruxing or grinding in the night, causing jaw pain.
JayP,
Just saw your post on 1 year mark. A big high five and chest thumping from me for you :)… It’s definitely a huge achievement.We know what it took us to get here. It ain’t easy but the rewards are worth more than your life (pun intended :)). Keep going JayP. You are an inspiration to all of us..
Shiva
Day 400 something
Day 16! Starting to enjoy life a little better 🙂
Joe G, I was super sleepy all the time for the first month and then it let up but yesterday for no reason on day 49 I didn’t have the energy to walk to my truck yet alone make the meetings I had scheduled for the day. I used some bogus excuses to cancel my meetings and just laid on the couch till it was time to go to bed. I worked out on the weight pile this morning (day 50) and felt great then went out and took care of all that I missed yesterday and then some. I did whatever I had to do to get by for that day (yesterday, day 49) and you have to do the same Joe G. I didn’t know day 49 was going to be a mother of a day but it turns out it was, If you’re prepared to go the distance you’ll make it no matter what day it is or how hard that day is. Do whatever it takes to get through and that includes sleeping for the day if you have to. Nothing wrong with that Joe G.
Ben H
Day 15 and still sleeping a lot. Not sure why? I kind of feel like I’m in a slight depression….Probably…makes sense. Anyways, my brother and I are there everyday to support each other and of course KTC.
Greetings Board, been off with “life” lately, just wanted to pop in and say today, is 1 year free of the tobacco/nicotine. This is the longest I have ever when without any form of nicotine or tobacco.
I cannot believe how fast time has went. I want to thank everyone who has contributed here…this blog, its members and to all the wonderful alternatives that have helped me get throughout this past year.
If anyone is reading this, and is “considering” quitting, just do it! I abused Smokeless Tobacco for 25 years. You will suffer for about a month, and will have your ups and downs for about the first 100 days (all described above), but if you “truly” want to quit and break free from this horrible habit, IT CAN BE DONE! Come here and vent, ask questions, reach out to the people on this board, we’re all one big family of quitters!
I hope all of you that have walked down the same path, continue your quit.
I owe a HUGE thank you to all you people I will probably never meet (at least on earth-spiritual statement), but am grateful you’ve been part of my quit!
Thank you to KTC, I owe you!
-JP (quit date 07/15/2014)
Day #365.242
Hey jayp
Have u heard of people getting a loss of appetite? I’m on day 10
Hi Britt,
I apologize for the late response…I definitely didn’t lose my appetite when I quit. Actually, I gained weight because of the oral fixation associated with the habit. I was dating more!
But, because many of us get a tinge of anxiety during the early.parts of the quit, I would say this loss of appetite might be associated with a little anxiety.
I would probably pop into your doctors office if this continues and get their opinion. Not trying to scare you, but I can’t give you all the answers. I know when I dealt with anxiety (before I quit), I lost weight. So its just my educated guess. Hope it helps and you are continuing your quit!
-JP
JayP,
Just saw your post on 1 year mark. A big high five and chest thumping from me for you :)… It’s definitely a huge achievement.We know what it took us to get here. It ain’t easy but the rewards are worth more than your life (pun intended :)). Keep going JayP. You are an inspiration to all of us..
Shiva
Day 400 something
Thanks Shiva!
I’m a bit behind here…can’t believe how fast a year blew by. I agree…the rewards of being a quitter are priceless. I’m so happy I found this site (on accident)…the people I’ve met here have been my beacon through this quit. You yourself was here a few months before and inspired ME to get through the tough days, I appreciate your insights as well!
Thanks again and I will be around!
-jp
1 year-6 days quit
Congrats jayp
One year done. Amazing! I remember our posts last year when we started, you were 3 weeks ahead of me. You and DDD was allot of help for me!
I wish I had more time to here, but life has kept me busy.
Congrats again. Huge milestone
Jeff
Quit day
8-6-14
Thanks Jeff! It really did fly by. I too remember us 3 quitting at the same time….really wish DDD hung in there. 2 out ta 3 ain’t bad tho. I hear ya, life is keeping me busy too, but I will still pop in here and there to say hu and offer support.
Great hearing from you!
-JP
I have have not been dipping for as long as many of you (3 years, 1 year of 2-3 tins a week, but smoked 3 or 4 years before quitting for chew). So I thought because I haven’t dipped as long as most it would be easier, I didn’t realize how much nicotine grabs ahold of you. I am on my 7th day, and the cravings are insane I have more than a dozen a day some and they get so bad, I did not expect them being this bad. I have been so close to cracking that today I punched my steering wheel because I was so enraged by how bad I need that crap in my mouth and my seeds weren’t helping. So I think to myself why I am quitting, I am quitting because I am getting tired of my spit being red when I brush my teeth, I am tired of my teeth being stained yellow, I hate after the end of the day after I have dipped a crap ton my lip is torn to sherds. so I decided to do this for myself to prove I don’t have to use dip to make my day better (however right now it seems to be looking that way.ha) I am sure you will hear more from me, until then good luck to everyone.
By the way has anyone recommend or have used the fake stuff and what you think of it?
– Joey
Joey,
I have tried almost every single one of these fake alternatives. I ended up liking Triumph Herbal Chew the most. It is ground up Mint leaves and is very close to the real stuff, in my opinion. Just be sure if you do try their products, you order their Zero Strength. They offer their products Half Strength and Full Strength, meaning they have Nicotine in them! I have never or will ever go back to that drug, I have only used their zero strength products, which are absolutely wonderful, again, IMO.
What I have found, is that these fake alternatives are different for everyone. I like Triumph, others who tried it, didn’t care for it. I have tried the other ones and they are wonderful as well…just always went back to Triumph, for me.
Hooch is really close (texture wise) to the real thing too. And they have an array of flavors/cuts. If you are a “fine-cut” person, then I would point you to Elicit, again, they too offer Full, Half and Zero Strength, be sure you are getting the zero strength.
I thought Holt was an interesting product as well, its base is Alfalfa.
Golden Eagle is another I tried recently. The Mint and Wintergreen were really good, I wasn’t a fan of the texture though. The Oregon Mint Snuff, in my opinion, was a dud. This is all they had back in the 90’s as an alternative when I quit the first time (and failed).
You have decided to quit, the key, in my opinion, is to find alternatives that will get you by. I found that Sunflower Seeds are awesome as well.
Take your time and try them out Joey, Smokey Mountain is probably the most popular and most distributed one out there, they have a good product too.
Good Luck and Keep punching away at your quit!
-JP
JayP,
Congratulations man, one year down!! This just made my day, I had it written down too.
Hit me up at provo40@hotmail.com
Steve
Day 255 approx
Thanks Steve, appreciate the words. I think it’s awesome where you are in your quit too, proud of you man! This far in your quit, it should be smooth sailing to your one year anniversary. We’ll keep be in touch and as always….
Stay quit!
-JP
I have been dipping for a little over 7 years and decided to quit, just to be able to say that I can easily quit whenever I want. However, I did not realize how addicted to nicotine I was.
So, confident me decided to go cold turkey and FAILED at the 24 hour mark… Once I realized what I did, I became so mad at myself. I through the tin into drawer that has nothing but that tin inside it and vowed not to open that drawer again (I still have not opened the drawer).
I am now on day 6, the first three days were rough. I was in a constant fog and time just stood still. The first day seemed like it lasted a week. I wanted to have a dip so bad, just so I could get a little sleep. I finally feel normal-ish, but with mind games being played in my head anytime I have some spare time (being bored).
I can honestly say that I am very confident that I will never have another dip again, because i never want to have to go through the first 3 days again.
Lastly, thanks to all of you!!! Even though I have not meet any of you or you knew that I came to this site, I have been reading your advice, your troubles and journey. All I can say is thank you for the support, that none of you new you were giving me!
Day 7!!! For the 3rd time last night, crashed at 7 pm and didn’t wake up until 6 am. To be honest, I feel a hell of a lot better than I did on Day 3. I’ve acquired a hole in left cheek from sunflower seeds…just switched sides 🙂 I’m encouraged by all of you and it is definitely therapeutic posting and reading posts. Fight on and “can do”!
Joe G,
You are doing awesome man, keep it up. How is your brother doing?
The sleeping is impressive I slept like hell in the beginning of my quit and I’ve probably gotten 11 hours over the past 3 days my son has croop and is a daddy’s boy.
I remember that feeling from the sunflower seeds, try using either low or no salt seeds if that really starts to bother you.
You’re definitely taking the right approach, I also quit drinking for the first 50 days, this is your quit you go all out to achieve your goal. Post all day everyday if it is helping you it definitely helped me, much more than I expected. Day 100 feels great, let’s get you there!!
Steve
Day 247
Thanks Steve for the encouragement…It’s greaty appreciated. My brother is staying strong with his quit and will have surgery on his throat August 6th. He’s got the greatest attitude you could ever ask for. He’ll beat both…The Nic bitch and cancer…Day 8 and fighting on!
Thanks JP. 41 down working on 42.
Big Thumbs up Ben, keep them rolling!!
-JP
Nice work Ben
I have not been dipping as long as most guys on here (only 4 years). I have been quit for a day right now and this is living hell. What’s something’s you guys did to keep your mind off of it? And would any of you recommend tobacco-free snuff imitations? I dipped 2 cans of grizzly natural finecut a day.
Hi James – you’re in luck. There are several good alternatives out there. I’d point you to the following as a starting point:
Hooch Wintergreen: http://blog.killthecan.org/2011/10/hooch-snuff-review/
Holt Wintergreen: http://blog.killthecan.org/2011/08/holt-tobaccoless-chew-review/
Smokey Mountain Wintergreen: http://blog.killthecan.org/2012/09/smokey-mountain-snuff-review/
Bacc Off Wintergreen / Energized: http://blog.killthecan.org/2012/05/bacc-off-review/
James I would suggest the Smokey Mountain natural. I have been using the Smokey Mountain wintergreen as an alternative to the Grizzly mint I used to chew. Nothing beats the real thing, but having something of similar texture and flavor that you can spit sure did my mind wonders to keep me off the real thing. You can buy it at Wal-Mart. They seem to be a little inconsistent in what all they carry, but each one I’ve been to has had some flavor of the Smoky Mountain brand.
Has anyone felt a strong pain in their jaw almost behind your? I’m on day 46 of quitting. My anxiety is high right now too. This pain is making my anxiety worse, has anyone had similar symptoms?
Yep. I had all sorts of jaw issues. Some nights it felt like the damn thing was going to crawl off my head. Nothing wrong with going to chat with your doc, but keep in mind that many people will grind their teeth after quitting and this can lead to these sorts of jaw pains.
I had anxiety for the first 40-60 days Travis. Search “TMJ” on Google, it will give you and explanation of that jaw pain…sometimes anxiety and it, are linked.
I agree with Chewie, go have a chat with your doc, they will be happy of your decision and can take a look over you to be sure it isn’t nothing more serious.
I’m no doctor, but I had very similar symptoms myself the first 40-60 days…they will lift!
Hang in there!!
-JP
Hey JoeG, Started at 25 and I’m 60 now. I quit coppenhagen May 27 (38 days ago). It seemed like I was in a comma for the first 3-4 days, all I did was sleep. I mean 16-hours a day nodding in and out all afternoon sweating and sleeping on and off sweating all night. It was the worst hell I’ve ever been through but I’m thankful for it now because when I think about having a dip now I think about having to go through that hell again and I don’t because nothing is worth ever having to go through that again. I’m a short timer at 38 days into abandoning the tobacco leaf and my slavery to a plant but I can tell you it is 1000 times easier now than on day 2-3. Stick with it! The pain and the feeling of being lost on another planet will pass pretty soon and the memory of it will help you stay square with your commitment in the future. I’ll be praying for you and me that we make it.
Ben H
Great explanation Ben,
Couldn’t have made it clearer myself. Congrats on 38 (41 now?) days of freedom.
Keep it up!
-JP
Thanks everyone for the encouragement…Day 6! The fog is slowly lifting. Over the weekend I would go out and lift weights for half an hour just to get my mind off of it. That seems to help, plus on the 4th staying away from Coors Light and calling it a night early helped also. My brother is on day 6 also, so we share the F’d up dreams we each had the night before…I mean weird dreams…
Hey Joe,
Getting out and exercising definitely helps…it kept my mind busy on the quit as well.
Coors Light, my all time favorite too, staying free from the booze for a little bit helps too. I know when I did drink, it was a trigger, so I stayed a way for a little while. You’re approaching your quit the right way, doing all the right things, keep it up!!
Yes sir, those dreams are very strange the first 30 days for sure, I remember those very well too!!
-JP
Day 2 and it sucks! Chewed Copenhagen since I was 12 (50 now). My younger brother chews and they found a growth in his throat. I committed to quitting with him and supporting him. Was in and out of delirium all day yesterday and fell asleep at 7:00 pm and didn’t wake up until 5:30 am…I felt so frickken exhausted.
Thanks all for sharing…
Hi Joe,
I’m sorry to hear about your brother…awful story. Sometimes it takes something like that to make a change.
Hope after day 5, things are getting a little better. Just hang in there and stay committed to the quit…you can do this.
-JP
Lots of new posters here, I am impressed!
Big High-5 to you Steve, for taking the time to respond to the newcomers!
Mayank, hope you are still solid in your quit, you are approaching that 30 day mark, keep pushing!
Russ, ThisSucks & Cubby, welcome! It takes a lot of courage to un-hitch the tobacco wagon and live free from the chemicals. Reading your posts brings me back (as it does others here I assume) to when I began my quit. It really is tough, I feel all your pain out here folks, I mean that with every ounce of my existence. I made a promise that I would try to help anyone wanting to get away from this terrible addiction. I will not judge anyone with the habit, but if they want help, advice, I am willing to help anyone!
I see Tim posted he is in a couple weeks and it isn’t getting much easier, but then resorted back to what day 1-3 was…there is a difference! I can attest things do get easier after the first 30 days. For me, it really started showing up in the 40-60 day range and got much better (although I still had the occasional thought of going back) at the 100 day mark. Hang in there, there is sunshine after the storm!
Anything you can get your hands on, be it Fake Herbal Chew, Sunflower Seeds, Gum, Jerky…I see Ben uses Atomic Fireballs (Never thought of those), to keep you away from the tobacco and closer to the 40-60 day mark, will help you succeed in the quit. Its hell, but SO WELL WORTH IT TO BE FREE!
Those of you almost through the “Dirty 30”, Keep grinding!
And I will try to help all the newcomers, you are all welcome here!
Keep up the fight!
-JP
Day #352
Thank you all for the advice. I am going to try the atomic fireball. That sounds like it is a great substitute. That skittles and seeds is what I will have for the car ride. I actually quit for 8 months, 3 years ago, but broke down on a 20 hour car ride to spring break. I got talked into that 1 tin wouldn’t draw me back in, but it did. I haven’t been able to stop for 30 days since. I remember the first 100 days though. Very tough and plenty of nights with no sleep, cold sweats, and the dip dreams. Hopefully, I do not give into this temptress on the vacation and can report back in 10 days with with good news. That would put me at day 28, and almost over the 30 day hump.
Hey Cubby,
I fell to the “only one dip” offer myself. It took almost 17-18 years more, to finally get back to quitting. I kick myself for “thinking” one dip won’t hurt, but I also learned a very valuable lesson…THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS ONE DIP. I know this now and as much as “I think” I am strong enough to have just one, and remain quit, I am not…I am an addict.
The good thing about today, as opposed to back in the mid-90’s when I quit, is there are so many GREAT alternatives to smokeless tobacco. I was only aware of one, before I found this site, that was Mint Snuff. And let me be clear, if that still was the only one available today, I probably would of had a much harder time quitting…that stuff isn’t any better today, than it was back then.
The many alternatives available, coupled with the support this blog offers, has made my quit successful 10-fold. I don’t ever plan to have “just one” ever again and I strongly feel, I will never return to that old habit.
You can get there too again and now you know…there’s no such thing as one. I get it, Spring Break, beaches, partying…tough time to stay true. But we all need to dig a little deeper during these times. Or, do what a poster said he did above, punch the person offering you a dip in the face! LOL!
Take care and good luck on your journey.
-JP
JP almost to a year, what is your exact date? That’s awesome man!! I wonder how Rick and Shiva are doing, you guys were huge for my quit!
Steve
8 months today!!!
Hey Steve,
Was on vacation for the 4th of July celebrations. Thanks for the positive wishes. Exact date is July 15th…10 days away to a year (though, when I count the specific days, I’m only 9)… It has flown by too.
I haven’t heard from either Shiva or Rick…hope all is well with them…Jeff too.
Make no mistake Steve, you being around here has been huge for me too, appreciate all the people on this blog.
Congrats on 8 months to you…that’s flown by as well…wow!
-JP
Day #356
Cubby, I use the “atomic fireballs” when I’m driving which is an appropriate name for anybody with the courage to quit. They are super hot cinnamon jawbreakers and the pain of the hot cinnamon on my tongue helps until the worst part of the crave is over. I’m 37 days down the road from a 35 year cope habit. Its a lot easier now than it was at day 16, hang in there and I’ll do the same.
Ben
It has been 16 full days in 2 hours and 10 minutes since my last dip (quit cold turkey). I am gearing up for a 19 hours of driving for a vacation. This has always been one of my biggest triggers and I do not think seeds will satisfy that trigger. Any advice that anyone may have would be greatly appreciated.
Hey Cubby – if you haven’t yet, I’d urge you to join our forum at http://forum.killthecan.org/ – we’ve got nearly 24,000 members that “get it” because we’ve all been there before. Also, for that vacation, make sure you’ve got something else to keep you occupied: fake dip, beef jerky, gum, sunflower seeds, etc. Hang in there man!!!
Cubby are you going with other dippers or people that you usually dip around?
I would remember the 19 days you’ve been thru and not wanting to go back thru that.
Right before a vacation is a tough time to quit, no time is easy but that’s an added wrinkle man best of luck.
I used fake stuff, seeds, jerky, fruit and lots of water and exercise(which isn’t easy in a car for 19 hours)
Steve
Day 243
I was driving alone. I had a few urges to throw one in alkng the way. The first one was when I went to visit my Buddy at his new house and he threw one in in front of me luckily it was cope wg and bot griz wg. The second time was when I took my buddy’s boat out. Was just the perfect time, but luckily didn’t have one on me. I avoided some stressors (cuttig the grass, playing golf, and fishing) the entire time. The last urge I got was the worse. Driving 16 hours back to Florida alone after a night of drinking. I was starting to get tired and new a dip would keep me up, and was so close to home I didnt want to stop. I fought hard and had about 45-50 jolly ranchers and cinnamon mints and am now sitting on day 30. After tomorrows morning run it will be day 31. I feel good for the next coming weeks, but things are about to great stressful at work and there is no way to avoid that stress. Next goal is to make it to September 10th and I will be through all stressors/triggers.
It’s crazy to realize how much this shit has controlled my life without me knowing it. I’ll be off work in an hour or so and I’m just sitting here thinking of things to do at home to occupy myself so I don’t think about a dip.
Hey this sucks
Try hitting the gym or going for a walk anything to break up your old normal routine with dip. If you are used to going home sitting on the couch packing a dip you will be torturing yourself in that position.
Are you using any fake dip? Seeds? Jerky? Make sure you are drinking plenty of water, keep this quit man it won’t get easier the next time you try.
Steve
Day 220-something
Steve – I think you’re spot on about finding something to break up my usual routine cuz usually I’d come home and eat then sit in my chair with a dip. I bought a can of fake dip yesterday and I eat seeds often anyways so have continued with that. So far the fake dip seems to be doing a decent job. Just wonder what my cravings will be like in another day or two once the nicotine is all out of me. I think I got this though!!
This Sucks, I’m on day 125, using fake dip, seeds, & Skittles to get me by. Weening myself off the fake dip now. Try Teaza pouches if you haven’t yet, they’re very good. Keep up the quit my man.
Dan – I’ll have to try out the Teaza. That’s a new one I haven’t heard. It’s just a mind game at this point. As long as I have something that feels like a dip I’m in good shape. Eventually quitting the fake dip might prove to be difficult as well! Keep on keepin on Joe Dirt
This sucks, don’t worry about quitting the fake stuff till you’re ready and when you are I’m sure it will be a lot easier. I still have smokey mountain when I want it, 2-3 pinches a week at this point no interest in the real thing anymore….I can’t even stand the smell of kodiak, I’m amazed I did it for so long.
Steve
Day 243 (just realized its been 8 months)
Steve – congrats on the 8 months! I just passed the first 72 hours of hell yesterday. I had a smokey mountain dip first thing this morning just to get it out of the way more than anything. I’m too damn nauseous to even think about the real thing so thankfully that doesn’t even sound good. Gonna be a tough day today with a golf tournament and being outside all day. If I can get through today, every other day here on out should be a breeze!!
It’s hard and it sucks. BUT it’s a mind game. I’m couple weeks in and not getting easier. At the same time after the first few days I think I’m ok. It’s the cravings and the habit of wanting a dip after I eat or work outside etc. I’ve got this!!!! WE got this!!! Who needs that nasty worm dirt looking shit. Grab a can of herb snuff and dip away.
24 hours in. I have chewed half a can of Smoky Mountain mint pouches and a large bag of sunflower seeds. Definitely feeling tired after not sleeping well last night and not looking forward to what tonight brings!
26 years of dipping with 30-60 days quits sprinkled in throughout. I am not your typical dipper, no one ever knew I had a skoal pouch in and I would pretty much kill a can a day. Now, I’m 44, have gotten into great shape because I watch what I eat, drink and workout regularly and have family and friends that look at a healthy guy put tobacco and carcinogens in his mouth – they all say WTF, why do you do that to yourself and I wonder the samething! I am not invincible and cancer is rich in my families history. Finally, I am adamant about quitting and going cold turkey to kick the addiction. So far, feel irritiiable and tired and throwing in dentyne Ice between cheek and gum to satisfy sensation. It’s not a dip but it will work!!! Good to use this board to read others insights and share my own struggles.
Good luck to all – God’s will and strength to each of you.
Hey Russ,
I used to get the exact same reaction, I called it the kodiak rewards program. Go to the gym, have a dip, eat a salad have a dip, you get the point….it was pretty friggin stupid. I found that focusing harder on those good habits that you already have will help with the quit. I used to do burpees or push-ups during a crave till it passed.
I loved smokey mountain for the first month as well, I still use it from time to time but my cravings for the real deal are long gone. If I can do it then you can do it, you just have to want it bad enough to do it.
Steve
I’m 28 and have been dipping for 16 years. I’m in the army and dip is more common here then in the civilian world. I slowed from a can a day to one or two dips a day. And after returning from training in Germany I was quit for 48 hours. Tonight I failed and put a dip in. When will I get over this. I’m so frigin frustrated that I’m not stronger than this thing. I don’t know what to do to get over this thing but I have to quit. Can’t risk oral cancer and it’s so expensive. I have to stop. I guess I’m just looking for the miracle words to make me quit that I know damn good and well don’t exist…
You’re right… there is no magic bullet, and there are no magic words. But there is a community with more than 24,000 members that “get it” because we’ve all been right there. http://forum.killthecan.org/ When you’re ready… we’ll be there.
Just got quoted for life insurance as a chewer of 15 years. That’s enough motivation in itself to quit, among the other things! Going to try quitting cold turkey today…
My Ins lady said it takes about 90 days to get nic out of your system.
Good morning, this is day 4 for me, for five years I have been dipping skoal pouches. Reading the post is helpful. Thanks
QUITNOW,
How you hanging in there? You should be at almost 10 days now based on when you posted, you still solid?
-JP
Thanks JP. For Sure I will.
Day 24. hanging on.
Less than a week to day 30, keep trucking, we’re all pulling for you!!
-JP
Day 25, still trucking. Way to tired all the time still and going to bed early. Probably didn’t help going cold turkey on tobacco and caffeine at the same time. Still irritable and getting angry easily. Went to the dentist, still have good teeth but now good gums. Took a oral cancer screen , free and clear still. Also punched my friend in the face, kinda snapped after he offered me a dip with the can open up to my face. Couldn’t help it and throw his can into the river.
Good times.
There’s a silver lining there… guessing he’ll never offer you a can again!
HAHA “punched my friend in the face”…LOVE IT! I agree with Chewie, he won’t be offering you one of those again!
-JP