Quitting Smoking Timeline: What to Expect When You Quit Tobacco

Many people participating in a smoking cessation program want a timeline that predicts results. Unfortunately, there is no timeline that predicts how long it will take before a person is free of the habit.
However, it is possible to make informed guesses on how long it takes to quit smoking based on data gathered on people who have participated in smoking cessation programs. It is also possible to point out the effects and benefits of quitting and how long it will take to feel those effects and show them on a highly accurate quitting smoking timeline.
Table of Contents
- What Happens When You Quit Smoking
- What to Expect When Quitting Smoking Timeline
- Quitting Smoking Timeline
- Long-Term Benefits of Quitting Smoking
- The Best Way To Quit
- Does Vaping Help To Quit
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Thoughts
Table of Contents
What Are the Benefits of Quitting Smoking?
The benefits of stopping smoking are well known, but it does not hurt to go over those points again.
- The cycle of addiction is finally broken. No more are those who break the habit trapped on the hamster wheel of nicotine dependence.
- Hearing and vision are improved, and additional damage to the eyes will not occur because they are no longer being irritated by smoke.
- The mouth becomes cleaner as breath improves, and the smile becomes brighter.
- Improved skin as the blemishes disappear and the chances of premature aging are reduced.
- Heart health improved, and the chances for heart attacks, blood clotting, and high cholesterol are lowered.
- There will be no more additional scarring to the lungs, and the chances of developing emphysema are reduced. Also, the cilia in the lungs will start to regrow.
- Cigarette use damages the DNA, increasing the risk of cancer. Quitting reduces the risk of developing cancer.
- Reduced risk of weight gain and diabetes, as well as a return to normal estrogen levels in women and reduced chances of complications during pregnancy.
- Increased sexual performance
- Improved white blood cell count and a faster and more robust immune response to infections
- More oxygen in the blood results in stronger muscles
The benefits of stopping smoking are well known, but it does not hurt to go over those points again.
- The cycle of addiction is finally broken. No more are those who break the habit trapped on the hamster wheel of nicotine dependence.
- Hearing and vision are improved, and additional damage to the eyes will not occur because they are no longer being irritated by smoke.
- The mouth becomes cleaner as breath improves, and the smile becomes brighter.
- Improved skin as the blemishes disappear and the chances of premature aging are reduced.
- Heart health improved, and the chances for heart attacks, blood clotting, and high cholesterol are lowered.
- There will be no more additional scarring to the lungs, and the chances of developing emphysema are reduced. Also, the cilia in the lungs will start to regrow.
- Cigarette use damages the DNA, increasing the risk of cancer. Quitting reduces the risk of developing cancer.
- Reduced risk of weight gain and diabetes, as well as a return to normal estrogen levels in women and reduced chances of complications during pregnancy.
- Increased sexual performance
- Improved white blood cell count and a faster and more robust immune response to infections
- More oxygen in the blood results in stronger muscles
Quitting Smoking Timeline Effects
Quitting smoking now greatly reduces your risk for numerous diseases, cancers, COPD, and reproductive complications. When quitting smoking, there are numerous physical and emotional effects the body experiences. These effects are both short-term and long-term.
Every time someone smokes a cigarette, he or she inhales a copious amount of carcinogenic chemicals and irritating cigarette smoke that damages the lungs, heart, and other parts of the body. The benefits of quitting can be felt very soon after quitting, whether a person has been using cigarettes for decades or a few years.
Quitting smoking now greatly reduces your risk for numerous diseases, cancers, COPD, and reproductive complications. When quitting smoking, there are numerous physical and emotional effects the body experiences. These effects are both short-term and long-term.
Every time someone smokes a cigarette, he or she inhales a copious amount of carcinogenic chemicals and irritating cigarette smoke that damages the lungs, heart, and other parts of the body. The benefits of quitting can be felt very soon after quitting, whether a person has been using cigarettes for decades or a few years.
Quitting Smoking Timeline: 15 Minutes to 20 Years
- 20 Minutes: Blood pressure and pulse normalize, and the fibers in the bronchial tubes start moving again, resulting in the lungs being better able to expel agents that can potentially cause infections. You may begin to feel warmth in your fingertips and other extremities. This is due to your circulation improving.
- 8-12 Hours: Carbon monoxide levels normalize, and blood oxygen levels return to normal. Increased blood oxygen levels mean that tissues and blood vessels receive better nourishment.
- 24 Hours: Increased oxygen levels and less restricted veins and arteries reduce the risk of a heart attack.
- 48 Hours: Damaged nerve endings heal, sense of smell and taste will begin to increase, allowing you to experience more flavor and aromas.
- 72 Hours: Bronchial tubes expand, and lung capacity improves, making breathing less laborious. The nicotine levels in the system will have been depleted. However, with this absence comes greater symptoms of withdrawal. Increased tension, cravings, irritability, and other symptoms may be strongly present.
- 1 Week: Those who go one week without cigarettes are nine times more likely to quit successfully.
- 2 Weeks: The ability to walk improves as blood circulation improves. Lung functioning increases 30 percent. According to the American Heart Association, the lung capacity and performance will begin to regenerate and improve, as well as the circulation. This will allow you to perform intense activities such as exercising, running, and various other physical activities that rely on endurance and stamina.
- 1-9 Months: Energy levels increase while coughing, fatigue, and shortness of breath decrease. The fibers in the bronchial tubes regrow, making it easier to expel mucus. One of the adverse effects of smoking analog cigarettes is the damage to the cilia. Cilia are the small hair-like organelles that assist in reducing your risk of infections by pushing mucus out of your lungs. The regenerative process your lungs undergo includes the repair of the cilia. This increases lung function and performance, as well as reduces the risk of infection.
- 3 Years: Heart attack risk decreases to that of a non-smoker
- 10 Years: Lung cancer risk is that of a non-smoker; chances of developing other cancers decrease, and healthy cells replace pre-cancerous cells.
With the absence comes greater symptoms of withdrawal, which is why it is good to have something like nicotine gum or a vaporizer around to help manage your cravings.

- 20 Minutes: Blood pressure and pulse normalize, and the fibers in the bronchial tubes start moving again, resulting in the lungs being better able to expel agents that can potentially cause infections. You may begin to feel warmth in your fingertips and other extremities. This is due to your circulation improving.
- 8-12 Hours: Carbon monoxide levels normalize, and blood oxygen levels return to normal. Increased blood oxygen levels mean that tissues and blood vessels receive better nourishment.
- 24 Hours: Increased oxygen levels and less restricted veins and arteries reduce the risk of a heart attack.
- 48 Hours: Damaged nerve endings heal, sense of smell and taste will begin to increase, allowing you to experience more flavor and aromas.
- 72 Hours: Bronchial tubes expand, and lung capacity improves, making breathing less laborious. The nicotine levels in the system will have been depleted. However, with this absence comes greater symptoms of withdrawal. Increased tension, cravings, irritability, and other symptoms may be strongly present.
- 1 Week: Those who go one week without cigarettes are nine times more likely to quit successfully.
- 2 Weeks: The ability to walk improves as blood circulation improves. Lung functioning increases 30 percent. According to the American Heart Association, the lung capacity and performance will begin to regenerate and improve, as well as the circulation. This will allow you to perform intense activities such as exercising, running, and various other physical activities that rely on endurance and stamina.
- 1-9 Months: Energy levels increase while coughing, fatigue, and shortness of breath decrease. The fibers in the bronchial tubes regrow, making it easier to expel mucus. One of the adverse effects of smoking analog cigarettes is the damage to the cilia. Cilia are the small hair-like organelles that assist in reducing your risk of infections by pushing mucus out of your lungs. The regenerative process your lungs undergo includes the repair of the cilia. This increases lung function and performance, as well as reduces the risk of infection.
- 3 Years: Heart attack risk decreases to that of a non-smoker
- 10 Years: Lung cancer risk is that of a non-smoker; chances of developing other cancers decrease, and healthy cells replace pre-cancerous cells.
With the absence comes greater symptoms of withdrawal, which is why it is good to have something like nicotine gum or a vaporizer around to help manage your cravings.

Long-Term Effects Of Stopping Smoking
- The risk for any type of coronary heart disease is much greater for a smoker. According to the CDC, approximately one year after smoking your overall risk for coronary heart disease decreases by half.
- Another primary adverse effect smoking has on your health is the constricting of blood vessels. The constricting of the blood vessels greatly increases the chance of stroke. A primary factor that causes this is carbon monoxide.
Between five and 15 years after quitting smoking, the chance of stroke decreases to that of an average non-smoker, according to the CDC. This restorative process takes time but results in an overall decrease in an ex-smoker’s mortality rate.
- The CDC further states that after 10 years of not smoking, the risk of lung cancer, cancer of the throat, mouth, esophagus, and major organs also decreases by approximately half that of a traditional cigarette smoker. Medical practitioners report that nearly 90% of all lung cancer-related deaths are a result of smoking traditional cigarettes.
How Will The Skin Improve After Quitting Smoking?
Even at a young age, smoking deprives the skin of much-needed nutrients and life-giving oxygen. This causes the skin to either lose color or become noticeably discolored.
Quitting smoking now not only greatly reduces the chances of contracting several forms of cancers, but will also aid in the restoration of skin cells, collagen, elastin, and will replenish the skin with vital nutrients and oxygen.
- The risk for any type of coronary heart disease is much greater for a smoker. According to the CDC, approximately one year after smoking your overall risk for coronary heart disease decreases by half.
- Another primary adverse effect smoking has on your health is the constricting of blood vessels. The constricting of the blood vessels greatly increases the chance of stroke. A primary factor that causes this is carbon monoxide.
Between five and 15 years after quitting smoking, the chance of stroke decreases to that of an average non-smoker, according to the CDC. This restorative process takes time but results in an overall decrease in an ex-smoker’s mortality rate.
- The CDC further states that after 10 years of not smoking, the risk of lung cancer, cancer of the throat, mouth, esophagus, and major organs also decreases by approximately half that of a traditional cigarette smoker. Medical practitioners report that nearly 90% of all lung cancer-related deaths are a result of smoking traditional cigarettes.
How Will The Skin Improve After Quitting Smoking?
Even at a young age, smoking deprives the skin of much-needed nutrients and life-giving oxygen. This causes the skin to either lose color or become noticeably discolored.
Quitting smoking now not only greatly reduces the chances of contracting several forms of cancers, but will also aid in the restoration of skin cells, collagen, elastin, and will replenish the skin with vital nutrients and oxygen.
What Is the Most Successful Way to Quit?
Giving up tobacco could be the most challenging undertakings someone will ever do, but there are ways to improve one’s chances:
- One Day at a Time: Smoking cessation is a marathon, not a sprint. Focus on staying smoke-free one day at a time. Each day it gets easier.
- Smoking Cessation Programs: Speak with a doctor or therapist about participating in a smoking cessation program. A program with guided steps may increase your chances of dropping tobacco for good. Many programs also incorporate nicotine replacement therapy, which can make cravings less intense.
- Lifestyle Changes: Incorporate healthy habits into your life, like diet and exercise. Those who quit risk weight gain, but a proper diet can prevent weight gain. Exercising can help a person focus on something else besides his or her cravings while improving cardiovascular and skeletal-muscular health.
- Stress Management: Many people smoke to deal with stress. Identify situations that are stressful and learn to deal with them in a productive way.
- Get Help: Having the help and support of friends and family, medical professionals, or a priest can make the transition to a tobacco-free lifestyle easier.
The human body has the ability to heal and regenerate, however, smoking must be stopped immediately. There are numerous aids to help quit smoking. Nicotine replacement therapies and medications, are methods proven to increase the chances of quitting long-term.
Giving up tobacco could be the most challenging undertakings someone will ever do, but there are ways to improve one’s chances:
- One Day at a Time: Smoking cessation is a marathon, not a sprint. Focus on staying smoke-free one day at a time. Each day it gets easier.
- Smoking Cessation Programs: Speak with a doctor or therapist about participating in a smoking cessation program. A program with guided steps may increase your chances of dropping tobacco for good. Many programs also incorporate nicotine replacement therapy, which can make cravings less intense.
- Lifestyle Changes: Incorporate healthy habits into your life, like diet and exercise. Those who quit risk weight gain, but a proper diet can prevent weight gain. Exercising can help a person focus on something else besides his or her cravings while improving cardiovascular and skeletal-muscular health.
- Stress Management: Many people smoke to deal with stress. Identify situations that are stressful and learn to deal with them in a productive way.
- Get Help: Having the help and support of friends and family, medical professionals, or a priest can make the transition to a tobacco-free lifestyle easier.
The human body has the ability to heal and regenerate, however, smoking must be stopped immediately. There are numerous aids to help quit smoking. Nicotine replacement therapies and medications, are methods proven to increase the chances of quitting long-term.
Is Vaping Bad for You?
Electronic cigarettes or vapes are battery-operated devices containing liquids like nicotine in various flavorings and chemicals (propylene glycol, glycerin). They design these devices in various shapes and sizes like the traditional pipes, cigars, and tobacco cigarettes. There are also new e-cigs that appear like pens, USB memory sticks, or in large tank systems.
Do E-Cigarettes Help Smokers Quit??
There are cases where an electronic cigarette may reduce the cravings of smoking traditional cigarettes. However, there is no clear evidence of whether it can be an effective cessation aid. There are still possibilities that using e-cigs could lead to nicotine addiction. As a result, it can prevent the user from quitting completely.
What Are the Side Effects of Vaping?
- Dry mouth
This could be due to the VG content. It makes the user’s mouth feel dry. - Dry skin
When a person is dehydrated, it can dry out one’s skin. This can be prevented by drinking water. For those with oily skin, this side effect might be favorable. - Itchiness
When the skin is dry, it itches. The skin may appear flaky and red. - Dizziness
Another side effect of vaping devices is dizziness, especially if they’re using the Sub Ohm method. - Allergies
Allergic reactions could occur to the different flavorings and other chemicals. Propylene Glycol or Vegetable Glycerin may be the cause. - Canker sores
Vaping itself isn’t the cause of this side effect but the user’s personal hygiene is. You should keep the vaping mouthpiece clean to prevent canker sores.
Continued use of e-cigs over a long period could lead to damaging effects on the cardiovascular system. Below are the long-term side effects of using e-cigs:
- Heart disease
- Inflammation of lungs (asthma)
- Congenital Disabilities on pregnant women
- Cancer
- Accidental nicotine poisoning
Electronic cigarettes or vapes are battery-operated devices containing liquids like nicotine in various flavorings and chemicals (propylene glycol, glycerin). They design these devices in various shapes and sizes like the traditional pipes, cigars, and tobacco cigarettes. There are also new e-cigs that appear like pens, USB memory sticks, or in large tank systems.
Do E-Cigarettes Help Smokers Quit??
There are cases where an electronic cigarette may reduce the cravings of smoking traditional cigarettes. However, there is no clear evidence of whether it can be an effective cessation aid. There are still possibilities that using e-cigs could lead to nicotine addiction. As a result, it can prevent the user from quitting completely.
What Are the Side Effects of Vaping?
- Dry mouth
This could be due to the VG content. It makes the user’s mouth feel dry. - Dry skin
When a person is dehydrated, it can dry out one’s skin. This can be prevented by drinking water. For those with oily skin, this side effect might be favorable. - Itchiness
When the skin is dry, it itches. The skin may appear flaky and red. - Dizziness
Another side effect of vaping devices is dizziness, especially if they’re using the Sub Ohm method. - Allergies
Allergic reactions could occur to the different flavorings and other chemicals. Propylene Glycol or Vegetable Glycerin may be the cause. - Canker sores
Vaping itself isn’t the cause of this side effect but the user’s personal hygiene is. You should keep the vaping mouthpiece clean to prevent canker sores.
Continued use of e-cigs over a long period could lead to damaging effects on the cardiovascular system. Below are the long-term side effects of using e-cigs:
- Heart disease
- Inflammation of lungs (asthma)
- Congenital Disabilities on pregnant women
- Cancer
- Accidental nicotine poisoning
Frequently Asked Questions About Quitting Smoking Timeline
How Long Does It Take to Quit Smoking?
For some people, it takes a matter of days, weeks, or months before they finally boot the habit for good. For others, it may take a lifetime, and they might even relapse.
Is Vaping Good for Quitting Smoking and Improving Health?
Vaping has many supporters who say it helped them quit smoking, and there is merit to what they say. However, those who are considering giving up tobacco should understand that they may be replacing one bad habit with another because nicotine is addictive in every form, whether it be vapes or cigarettes.
According to the study, vaping is many times healthier than cigarettes, and that there is significant evidence to support the assertion vaping can help those who want to improve their health.
What is the Hardest Day When You Quit Smoking?
The first week is the hardest time for those participating in a smoking cessation program, especially if they are quitting smoking cold turkey, meaning all at once.
The reason why the first week is the hardest is that people are used to the habit, and their brains are dependent on receiving daily amounts of nicotine. However, each day without a cigarette or tobacco in any form increases one’s health, and the chances of successfully quitting and improving their health outcomes increase after one week.
How Long Does It Take for Your Body to Adjust After Quitting Smoking?
That depends on what a person means by “adjust.” As shown by the timeline above, it can take up to ten years for a person to fully recover from the effects of cigarette use physically.
Mentally, it can take days, months, or a lifetime. But, it is crucial to get past the first week without cigarette use because a person is nine times more likely to successfully quit if they can make it that long smoke-free.
Even if a person smokes a cigarette while in a tobacco cessation program or quitting cold turkey, it is not the end of the world. Bounce back and try again while identifying the reasons for the relapse.
How Long After You Quit Smoking Are You Considered a non-Smoker?
A person with the right mentality will consider him or herself a non-smoker the first second after quitting. However, the nicotine withdrawal symptoms can be very intense during the first two to seven days after quitting.
They may not disappear for two or three months, depending on the person, which is why it is important to stay goal-focused and find productive ways of dealing with cravings.
How Long Does Smoker’s Flu Last?
Smoker’s flu is not the same thing as influenza, but some of the symptoms are the same, and they can appear on a quitting smoking timeline. They can include:
- Coughing
- Brain Fog
- Agitation and Anxiety
- Tingling in the Extremities
- Intense Nicotine Cravings
- Dizziness
- Tightness in the Chest
- Insomnia
- Constipation
- Headaches
Many of these symptoms are very unpleasant, and they may feel like the seasonal flu, but they are most likely the feelings of withdrawal. They are not the sign of a health emergency and are temporary and are most common during the first few days after quitting.
Some of these symptoms, like tingling in the extremities, tightness in the chest, and headaches can be quite alarming. Anyone who has these symptoms and has already been diagnosed with a medical condition that can result in a heart attack or stroke should contact a physician immediately or schedule regular doctor appointments to head off a severe health emergency.
What Happens to Your Skin When You Quit Smoking?
Smokers usually get wrinkles and blemishes sooner than people who do not smoke. A person who quits using cigarettes can expect his or her skin to clear up and for wrinkles to stop appearing. An improved physical appearance is one of the primary benefits of quitting tobacco.
How Long Does It Take to Quit Smoking?
For some people, it takes a matter of days, weeks, or months before they finally boot the habit for good. For others, it may take a lifetime, and they might even relapse.
Is Vaping Good for Quitting Smoking and Improving Health?
Vaping has many supporters who say it helped them quit smoking, and there is merit to what they say. However, those who are considering giving up tobacco should understand that they may be replacing one bad habit with another because nicotine is addictive in every form, whether it be vapes or cigarettes.
According to the study, vaping is many times healthier than cigarettes, and that there is significant evidence to support the assertion vaping can help those who want to improve their health.
What is the Hardest Day When You Quit Smoking?
The first week is the hardest time for those participating in a smoking cessation program, especially if they are quitting smoking cold turkey, meaning all at once.
The reason why the first week is the hardest is that people are used to the habit, and their brains are dependent on receiving daily amounts of nicotine. However, each day without a cigarette or tobacco in any form increases one’s health, and the chances of successfully quitting and improving their health outcomes increase after one week.
How Long Does It Take for Your Body to Adjust After Quitting Smoking?
That depends on what a person means by “adjust.” As shown by the timeline above, it can take up to ten years for a person to fully recover from the effects of cigarette use physically.
Mentally, it can take days, months, or a lifetime. But, it is crucial to get past the first week without cigarette use because a person is nine times more likely to successfully quit if they can make it that long smoke-free.
Even if a person smokes a cigarette while in a tobacco cessation program or quitting cold turkey, it is not the end of the world. Bounce back and try again while identifying the reasons for the relapse.
How Long After You Quit Smoking Are You Considered a non-Smoker?
A person with the right mentality will consider him or herself a non-smoker the first second after quitting. However, the nicotine withdrawal symptoms can be very intense during the first two to seven days after quitting.
They may not disappear for two or three months, depending on the person, which is why it is important to stay goal-focused and find productive ways of dealing with cravings.
How Long Does Smoker’s Flu Last?
Smoker’s flu is not the same thing as influenza, but some of the symptoms are the same, and they can appear on a quitting smoking timeline. They can include:
- Coughing
- Brain Fog
- Agitation and Anxiety
- Tingling in the Extremities
- Intense Nicotine Cravings
- Dizziness
- Tightness in the Chest
- Insomnia
- Constipation
- Headaches
Many of these symptoms are very unpleasant, and they may feel like the seasonal flu, but they are most likely the feelings of withdrawal. They are not the sign of a health emergency and are temporary and are most common during the first few days after quitting.
Some of these symptoms, like tingling in the extremities, tightness in the chest, and headaches can be quite alarming. Anyone who has these symptoms and has already been diagnosed with a medical condition that can result in a heart attack or stroke should contact a physician immediately or schedule regular doctor appointments to head off a severe health emergency.
What Happens to Your Skin When You Quit Smoking?
Smokers usually get wrinkles and blemishes sooner than people who do not smoke. A person who quits using cigarettes can expect his or her skin to clear up and for wrinkles to stop appearing. An improved physical appearance is one of the primary benefits of quitting tobacco.
Closing Thoughts About Quitting Smoking Timeline
Quitting tobacco is one of the hardest things a person will do in his or her life. Intense withdrawal symptoms will be experienced, causing a person to smoke to make them stop. No matter how bad withdrawals get, do not give into them. During that first week, focus on the benefits and rewards of being smoke-free, and do not give in to the temptation.
The first week is the hardest, but if a person can get through that, there is a huge chance that they will be smoke-free for life. Think about how lung cancer, blood clotting, and other diseases and disorders will be avoided when cravings start.
If you are an ex-smoker and have successfully booted the habit, please let us know what techniques you used to achieve success. Your comments about our quitting smoking timeline and how your health improved after you gave up the habit will be highly appreciated. Also, tips that help people are also helpful.
Quitting tobacco is one of the hardest things a person will do in his or her life. Intense withdrawal symptoms will be experienced, causing a person to smoke to make them stop. No matter how bad withdrawals get, do not give into them. During that first week, focus on the benefits and rewards of being smoke-free, and do not give in to the temptation.
The first week is the hardest, but if a person can get through that, there is a huge chance that they will be smoke-free for life. Think about how lung cancer, blood clotting, and other diseases and disorders will be avoided when cravings start.
If you are an ex-smoker and have successfully booted the habit, please let us know what techniques you used to achieve success. Your comments about our quitting smoking timeline and how your health improved after you gave up the habit will be highly appreciated. Also, tips that help people are also helpful.
Ur gran
December 9, 2021 at 4:44 amIf youre going to remove a comment, consider telling them why, i said nothing any different from those before me.
Oliver
December 8, 2021 at 1:23 pmMy son was born last week and I have been cigarette free for 2 weeks now. Was using a 1.1% e-liquid and have since switched to 0.6% and will soon switch to nicotine free liquids. Although there is some controversy around vaping, I was able to notice the above mentioned benefits almost immediately & was the best decision I ever made. I have tried quitting numerous times without vaping and never lasted longer than 2 days, so for those struggling, I really would suggest giving it a go if you lack the self discipline to go cold turkey (like me!) Good Luck!
This article was incredibly useful and informative, thank you!
Melanie
February 23, 2021 at 8:37 pmi have to quit smoking before my surgery and am afraid of the withdrawal symptoms. i have to have surgery and i am being forced to stop or i wont be allowed to have the surgery please keep me in your prayers.
VapingDaily
February 26, 2021 at 1:43 amBe strong and have a great recovery after the surgery! You’re doing good!
Chris
December 6, 2020 at 12:11 pmHaven’t had a cigarette in 4 weeks but must admit been vaping for 4 weeks as a replacement as I’ve heard yes you still get nicotine but there are less harmful chemicals involved. The first week was tough but I stuck to it, now to be honest I cant stand the smell of cigarettes and have no urch to have a one. My cravings are now less and it’s nice to know that when I have been paid I’m no longer tempted to buy a packet. One day I will stop vaping and having read a few of comments that you have written its given me more encouragement to achieve that goal.
James Bickford
December 28, 2020 at 6:26 amHi Chris, thanks for writing in, I’m happy to hear you’re taking the first steps to be cigarette-free. The first few weeks are always the toughest and we’re glad that we could encourage to put down the stinkies. Hopefully one day you will stop vaping as well, as a nicotine-free life is the best, even though you could always try nicotine-free e-juice as well. Hope everything is going well now. Take care and stay strong!
Sarah
April 27, 2020 at 5:12 pmI’m 36 and smoking since in 14 gave up 18 days ago not feeling to bad but the thing is I can’t go sleep since wtf I’ve always been able to sleep
Dee
June 6, 2020 at 8:30 amYup sleep is done! Could be anxiety also from covid19! So many things! Congratulations! it’s 24 days for me!
amarie
March 4, 2020 at 5:22 amits only been 5 hours since i stopped vaping and i cant stop crying i keep on sweating and it feels like my whole body is screaming i wasnt sure why but i took my vape again and relapsed again i am not strong enough but i feel better after just a few puffs i really need to quit can someone help me
Sandra Denton
November 11, 2020 at 7:50 amIt is not easy to quit anything. So stop again, but first chose your time. Do not get rid of any of the materials that you use to vape, this way you will not begin to panic and that anxiety won’t exist. When you stop vaping don’t stop anything else associated with vaping. In other words, if you were going outside to vape, then go outside. Suck in the air just like you would if you were vaping. Hold it just like you were vaping, then release. Do this for as long as you would if you were vaping. If you were vaping often during the day, you will be doing this exercise often. When you pass by your vaping materials, tell them that they do not own you. You will find yourself doing this exercise less and less over time. After a few months you will not need to do it at all. This is the way I stopped smoking 20 years ago.
James Bickford
November 18, 2020 at 7:04 amHi Sandra, thanks for writing in, it sounds like you have a lot of good advice to give. Thanks for joining in the conversation!
Haley Tozzi
January 31, 2020 at 8:14 amI am 28 and started smoking at 12. I started getting cheats pains beginning of January so for a wk I only had couple drags of a cigarette right before bed. Then 2wks ago I decided to stop altogether. After 2days the cravings became strong but I fought through it. A few days ago, everytime I eat or drink (even water) I feel like theres something stuck in my throat. I even got stomach cramps a few times. Please anyone know what this is? I’ve been to er and doctors office and no help. If someone can Inbox my fb which is my name haley tozzi, I’d appreciate it.
Dianna
February 11, 2020 at 9:37 amHaley, that sounds like acid reflux. Try taking some anti-acid reflux meds right before you eat dinner. These typically last 24 hours. But if it continues, go back to your doctor and make sure you tell them you quit smoking and that might trigger another round of a different type of questions from them to you. Good luck!!!
Curried
January 15, 2020 at 11:55 pm15 years smoking. Best thing I ever did was try to quit 3 days before breaking my leg. Blessing in disguise. 1 year strong now. Needed help, god provided in his way
Roma
January 8, 2020 at 1:07 pmI’m 47 and have been smoking since I was 11yrs old. I decided I deserve better. It’s only been 4days and I’m not using anything so cold turkey!!
I honestly feel as though I’m on acid sometimes. That weird, disconnected feeling but kinda neat feeling lol. Is that normal. I can feel every muscle in my body and they all feel like they need to be stretched.
How long am I going to feel this way.
Jeremy
March 10, 2020 at 12:26 pmThat’s so weird. I found my self stretching constantly after quitting, so much so I just started stretching each morning before work.
Jack
April 13, 2020 at 5:53 amHey Roma,
Ive got this feeling too and I’ve only been vaping low levels of nicotine for 4 years. Quit 48 hours ago and threw it all out. Very weird disconnected feeling, and yes a lot of stretching. I think it’s normal.
Christine
January 5, 2020 at 6:19 pmI smoked for 19 years and finally quit when I was really determined to do so. I used the patch for 3 days and after that found that sucking on lollipops and keeping my thoughts occupied on something other than my desire to smoke were working well. Wasn’t easy but I didn’t smoke for 19 years!
One day I chose to hit my brother’s cigarette, thinking I was freed. That turned into a few here and there with anyone who would bum me a smoke. Then a year ago a tragedy came my way and I chose to buy some. SO stupid. I’ve been smoking 1-6 a day several times a week since then but have finally determined that I cannot continue to do this to my body or to my loved ones. I think of my own loved ones who are gone because of smoking and wonder what the hell am I doing?
Just decide to do it, you will succeed. I’ve found that nicotine lozenges are very helpful for me. I suck on half at a time and they really do take my edge off. Sure it’s still nicotine but it’s not smoking and I won’t lozenge forever. I’m perfectly happy with them. You do what you gotta do. Just decide and don’t be afraid. Read Allen Carr’s book on quitting. It will challenge all of your thoughts and give you the courage and logic you need. Good luck!!
Josh Henderson
December 16, 2019 at 2:22 amI need help. I met the love of my life, but she hates me when I smoke. I need to quit, however, my personality is very habit driven. I know I need to set a date or target date to do this. I am terrified that doing this will cause bigger issues or whatever. The fact is I am scared, I read your article and is uplifting. I really want this, I am just scared that the withdrawal will make me grouchy and an ass. I just am reaching out for some support. Thanks and thank you for your story.
[email protected]
February 26, 2020 at 12:55 amJosh, Have you managed to quit smoking? I went to a hypnotist to quit smoking. it has been a month now and I feel great. I was like a bear with a sore head for a couple of weeks (so my work mates said) but it will pass……just remember to keep focused on the quitting by going for long walks/ the gym/ yoga? they will help. Remember you are doing this for you and no one else will help too, wishing you luck on becoming a non smoker.
tommaso
October 3, 2019 at 7:45 amquitting smoking is simple, I did so
Sheila
March 12, 2021 at 3:11 amIt really isn’t simple for some people. Try and be a bit kinder in your commen.
Bernadette Herron
September 29, 2019 at 8:03 amRose, what an uplifting and heartfelt message. Thank you x.
Rose
September 17, 2019 at 12:17 amI smoked cigs from 13 to 36, I turn 40 next year. I never thought in a million years I would quit, I LOVED smoking. I didn’t care if it killed me. Or at least, I thought I didn’t. When it’s all theoretical, it’s easy to brush off. Then one morning I woke up drowning in my own mucus, my lungs weakly spasming in fluid. I was being water-borded by my own body. I am alive to type this, so I obviously managed to get air eventually but let me tell you- and every smoker reading this- that little preview of things to come was scary as hell; and just the wake up call I needed. That is a BAD way to go. My grampa (a lifelong smoker) went out that way and he was in so much pain when he died that he used his last ounce of strength to rip off his oxygen tube and gurgle “NO!” Nothing is worth that. Especially when you are other side of quiting, and you realize the price was just feeling crappy for a few days. I have had worse weeks. It is so much worse in your head. You just break down into bearable chunks. Start in the morning, so you have 8 hours under your belt already. Get some snacks, cause you can’t eat, and smoke so use that when a craving hits. Remember cravings, come in waves. They peak, and ebb away. It is temporary. It will pass. Breathing, meditation, snack time, music, poetry, journaling, and motivational vids really help. You get one hour behind you, go for two. Before you know it, you got a whole day. It is doable. Be kind to yourself, and treat yourself in this period. You are doing something crazy important, that will literally save your life, so nothing it’s off the table. Just get that goal. It is a temporary discomfort, it goes away. I promise. It isn’t forever. You can be strong when you need to be, and then you will look back and feel this amazing pride. You will feel better, and have more money, and explore the new tastes and smells the world was hiding like a secret treasure trove. You are not giving something up, you are trading in a painful way to die, for some really amazing stuff. I believe in you.
stevie P
August 15, 2019 at 2:14 amHad 3 roll-ups on Jan 1st this year . The next day started to give myself targets to achieve. First day, late in the evening wanted one but didn’t do it. Next morning I felt very satisfied.
Then I thought if I can go without for a day I can do a couple – then a few days – then a week – then a fortnight – then a month – then a quarter of a year – then half a year . . . . . . Every morning now i’m soooo pleased I didn’t start again the day before ! Great way to start the day.
When I now go swimming I can swim underwater longer and that little morning cough to clear my throat has gone. Circulation in my hands and feet has improved completely.
The fact that I’m no longer giving the government my money in stealth taxation also makes me feel great.
Katrina
June 6, 2019 at 7:03 pmHave you visited any hospitals to examine the effects of vaping? A friend of mine working in special diagnostics has reported seeing crystallized lungs from vaping.
Lois Wilson
May 19, 2019 at 6:48 pmI quit smoking about 6 weeks ago after smoking 60 years. I am having some very bothersome effects the past couple of weeks. Having bad dreams mostly of people who have been dead for 45 years. Have had diaharea nearly every day for a couple of weeks. I am Bipolar and am feeling some sort of depression or what seems to be like depression I have dealt with before. I do take my antidepressants daily just as I have done for the past 25 years. I really feel as if I need to talk with someone who may have smoked as long as I have then quit as I have done.
Mia
April 11, 2019 at 10:18 amVaping isn’t quitting, it’s trading one harmful addiction for another. I don’t know a single smoker that has successfully quit smoking after switching. Vapes are not a cessation device, they’re a crutch.
Nick
April 23, 2019 at 9:09 pmVaping is way better than smoking cigs. Look up the jar cotton tests online. Cigs leave ur body full of tar.
Not easy to switch to vaping let alone quitting all together.
Everyone has some sort of addiction.
Elaine Evans
March 13, 2019 at 12:00 amSmoked for fifty years.
Went to the hospital
because I couldn’t get my breath. Woman in the next bed
was there for the same reason.
She finally died right in front of me.
A slow miserable,uncomfortable death.
She was begging staff for help.
They said they had nothing else for her.
I quit right then and there .
Three and a half years
without smoking now.
Even quite smoking pot also.
I wish you all the best .
Hope you see something
that makes you quit also.
Sincerely.
Mary galloway
March 11, 2019 at 10:32 amI’m 66i been smoking since I was 15years old I got copd nodules on my lungs I quit smoking for six months without taking anything to help that was three years ago and picked them back up I don’t want to smoke I want to live they are realy causing me to hurt I’m go try again I’m scared that my body changes will cause me to have a stroke that sounds crazy but when you stop your blood pressure is low I take blood pressure pills so what do I do if my blood pressure is low. Don’t take blood pressure meds thank you for any feed back I’m tired of smoking
Rex Smith
October 22, 2018 at 5:24 amI got bladder cancer in 2009. The doctor told me after we were successful getting rid of it that if I didn’t stop smoking it would come back. I had smoked 30 years. But what he said gave me motivation to do it. I bought a pack of Levi Garrett chewing tobacco after all my cigs were gone and started chewing a marble size chunk every time I had a strong craving. I chewed it for the length of time I would normally smoke a cig and spit it out. This calmed my nerves each time. After 3 days there was only a little bit left in the pouch and I told myself that I was not going to use the last marble size piece. It worked and now I have been free of smoking for over 9 years. I gained 30 pounds which took 5 years to get back off but I wouldn’t change a thing. I feel better today than I did 10 years ago and have way more endurance. The want to is the key to quitting. If you really don’t want to, you wont…
Gordon
October 13, 2018 at 4:19 pmI gave up 2 weeks ago after I arrived back from my holiday with a rattling noise in my throat that kept me awake. I’ve given up before for 3 years and gave in one stupid night after a few drinks. This time I’m definitely going forever. I do it cold turkey and always think of the benefits, money, health, not going outside in winter etc. My fiancée still smokes and I’ve not said a word about her trying to quit but it is easy if you really want to do it.
Jeff
October 10, 2018 at 12:42 amI quit in May of 2018.
Very few cravings and breathing better.Also more relaxed. I have tried 2 to 4 times befoe, once for a year.i have decided enough is enough and plan yo stay smokefree the rest of my life.
Karen
October 2, 2018 at 11:23 pm20 year smoker and have been smoke free 48 hours. Im here to read comments from everyone to keep myself strong and stay focused on my plan to quit. I’m about to hit the next few tough days when nicotine completely exits my body. This is the first time I’ve tried to quit in my 20 years. It’s like a relationship “me and cig – that time of feeling occupied” being the hardest part. I have to keep myself busy and experience and know how to adjust myself when a craving hits. Thank you everyone for sharing. I’m 40 and this is my birthday present for myself – to live a healthier life and quit smoking.
Craig
September 21, 2018 at 11:17 amMarch 2000 I looked at the face of my 5-year old son and realized I want to be here for most of his life. After 20 some odd years of smoking I tossed my cigarettes in the garbage. I smoke 1-2 packs a day. Ten years later I got colon cancer and survived – if I still smoked I’m sure that would have impeded my recovery. Between that and being on the 9/11 recovery team – smoking surely would not have helped. Quit now!
Omatseye Tony
August 23, 2018 at 10:38 amMy Quit Day 28/July/2018 still getting used to a life without smoking and I promise to be smoke free. It’s good and the benefits are really better
Saiful Bahri
August 21, 2018 at 12:27 pmI have been smoking for 20 yrs. And on 9th August 2018 is my last puff i smoked.
Today, already 2 wks of no smoking and i’m glad that l manage to go thru the craving part.
Right now i feel my body start to heal and breathe better.
Day by day my health has improved.
I hope smokers out there will quit to gain better healthy life and save a lots $$.
Himadri
August 4, 2018 at 10:02 pmSevere splitting headache, depression it has been exactly 24 hrs after stopping used to 20+ sticks calming myself watching the sunset yesterday and today the sun rising but it’s tough to break free from,
Sajad Mohammed
July 28, 2018 at 9:41 amCongrats to everyone out here and thank for the article. I’m 10 days in and things have gone from getting worse to getting better. About 1-2 cravings a day now (still pretty intense), but weather those and the rest of your day is peachy!
Upendra
July 21, 2018 at 2:54 amIt’s been 4 week of quitting smoking, its awesome feeling, feeling better and energetic.
Request smokers to quit ASAP.
Its bit difficult but not impossible certainly.
Atleast try and maintain absistain..
All the best wishes
Mohammed
July 18, 2018 at 7:37 amHi all,
I am a smoker (since 2011) and really want to stop, but I just can’t. I tried many times to quit but the habit and work / life stress makes me grab a cigarette every possible opportunity. The stress and bad habitacids (including unhealthy eating) is causing problems. I am 34 years old but I have acid reflux, ibs, chest pain, etc. I have seen many doctors and they all agree that I should stop smoking.
I started smoking a couple of cigarettes a day, and now I am reaching to 20 per day or even more on weekends.
Please I beg anyone who can help me out, I am in desperate need of help, I dont want to lose my life and my family because of this. I am choking up just thinking of the harm i did to my body. I used to remember when I was at the top of my health and power back in 2004 when I used to go to the gym, eat healthy and never smoked at that time.
It was just downhill after that. Sorry for taking up your time reading my comment. I just really need help.
Elisa
January 30, 2020 at 2:06 pmI’ve just read this post, and I want you to know that I truly hope you have quit smoking.
If not already, we can quit together today! Because today I am quitting.
I send all the best wishes, and strength, to you.
Sinead
July 10, 2018 at 11:26 amI quit last year after reading the Allen Carr book – it was so easy. The price of the book is less than a pack of smokes (in the UK) and you can smoke while reading it – what have you got to lose??
vivien
July 25, 2018 at 5:32 pmI’ve finally quit now for 6 months, freedom at last because of the Carr book, thanks Allan you saved my life after 47 years of fags.
Al
July 9, 2018 at 6:02 pmCold turkey, i set a date and thats it, throw all lighters and cigarettes, i dont smoke a single cig for the past 5 weeks, everytime i crave i just think the money i can save for a year ?
Sjannon
July 9, 2018 at 3:04 pmI quit June 28, 2018, after 25 years of smoking, with the help of chantix!!! Every day it gets easier!!! Fight the urges.
Ahmer
July 9, 2018 at 11:40 amMy quitting date is today 9th July 2018.. the cigarette laying on my table will be the last cigarette of mine that I’m gonna be smoking in next 15 minuet to give my cigarettes a good bye kiss…
Scott
July 7, 2018 at 4:27 pmI finally quit smoking cigarettes earlier this year after trying many times before . I always weakened and would end up buying some usually when I bought petrol . I would get mad at myself and even not finish a pack and throw them away . Always figured if I had no cigarettes and no lighter ( as I used to toss those away too ) I would not smoke but of course the cravings were insane and I always would buy more and that is how it would go on . Then I thought keep some cigarettes but don’t smoke them see if you can resist because I was tired of buying and throwing away . I thought keep them there and if you have to smoke then they are there . That was even worse because after trying not to smoke I would end up chaining them and smoking even more as I was so desperate by the time I gave in amd needed it so bad . What made me more determined this time was my own mind set . This time it was much stronger than before because I just felt so powerless being a slave to getting a nicotine hit atleast every half an hour with me as I could not go longer without a cigarette unless I was asleep ! Every night a big top up before sleep and then on wake up the same needing it so badly . I finally thought this is just crazy and as I finished a packet (well it was a carton actually) and on the last cigarette the last deep inhale I said to myself that is it now I will never take another inhale and I meant it . It was difficult but not as bad as I expected . I loved smoking and smoked everyday atleast 2 packs often far more for over 40 years . I took nothing at all to help just stopped . Each day I succeeded made me more determined to not let myself down as I knew I would never face the agony again and would end up smoking myself literally to death as I was doing before . I miss the act of smoking and looking forward to it as I was a really hard heavy smoker who loved every aspect of it but having broken a life times habit I can say it so worth it for the improvement in my health and future prospects . Good luck to everyone else trying to do the same .
Innih AKPAN
July 7, 2018 at 9:23 amIt is 53 days since I turned my back on cigarrete after 35 years of heavy smoking. It is increasingly becoming difficult to manage the dizziness I am feeling. What is the remedy to the dizziness?
lindaa
February 19, 2020 at 9:47 amhey Akpan , i quit 47 days ago and have the lightheaded-more like spaced feeling too , plus the anxious muscles , i find walks work 🙂
Damilola
July 7, 2018 at 4:27 amThe comments did strengthen me to quit, so it’s Day 1. I hope my body starts healing, been smoking for 8years. Anyone have idea if cannabis helps out? Most times I quitted, I used to smoke just cannabis and it did help on relieving the pressure of cigarettes.
Chris
July 6, 2018 at 5:49 pmLast day 7/4/18 2 days so far
Janice
July 6, 2018 at 4:10 amI stopped on 10th June last year I stopped using patches after 4 weeks as they kept falling off or I’d forget to put one on. It’s not been easy u smoked for 40 years. I still could murder a cigarette now and then. I won’t go back in them as I would be sick can’t believe I smelt like I did. Some days I like the smell and some days I want to be sick hope that will pass in time.
Mahesh
July 4, 2018 at 9:05 amMy Quit day 04 July 2018
bye bye cigerets
Anoop
July 2, 2018 at 1:43 pmMy quit date is 3 July 2018….bye bye tobacoo and marijuana.
Kathleen Corcoran
June 29, 2018 at 3:14 pmI quit 10 years ago ? after smoking for 40 years! I’ll be honest, the first 2 years were hard. I thought about smoking every day but hang in there. I honestly think if I hadn’t quit then I wouldn’t be alive now.
James
June 26, 2018 at 11:09 amSmoking a true addiction. I learned 10 years ago that even one cigarette can start the habit again in no time.
I quit cold turkey (best way to do it) exactly one year ago come July 8 and have passed the craving stages after 3 to four months, with the first month being the toughest.
Never mind aids, they don’t work. Cold turkey is by far the best way. A profoundly immortal determination will guarantee success.
Those who smoke, wished they never started. Those who quit, regret no quitting earlier,
Stop that filthy, expensive, and that will surely kill you if you do not quit. You can do it! just be determined, or don’t even try until you are. I was anxiously counting down to my quit date, and I still am equally angry enough at cigarettes I can say that I am confident I will never start again, especially knowing that I can’t even have one.
You CAN do it!
Mnh
June 26, 2018 at 8:32 amMy parents forced me to quit and my mood is sh*t all the time, I’m so mad at everyone and i keep fighting and ordering everyone around, also I can’t think clearly. I just want these couple of month to pass by till i move and get back to smoking, till then i like to read my improvements to know I’m not wasting my time not smoking
Haider
June 25, 2018 at 10:33 pmFinally I quit once again first I quit it for two and half year and then started its a bad experience but Now it’s finally quit from
19/06/2018
Harold T
June 24, 2018 at 3:25 pmStop smoking June 17,2018 (Father’s Day). So far doing great, no smoking or desire.
Tim
June 23, 2018 at 9:07 pm5 days cigarette free after 37 years smoking. Using patch and about 5 pieces of the gum a day, so far no real cravings, I’m sure that will change before I’m finally free for good this time though.
Larry calhoun
June 22, 2018 at 1:43 pmCutting grass the other gadnkne cig left. Lit up started coughing decided that was not been 2 days which is a record for me. Hope to stay off and not gain any weight but already feel more energetic sobtime to get on treadmill
Rich
June 20, 2018 at 7:15 am39 years smoking 20+ a day, and today is my first day as a non-smoker, baba=y steps from her on, feel positive about it tho.
Fuyuhiko
June 18, 2018 at 10:21 pmI quit a month ago.
I use to quit smoking for 3years and one night when I got drunk, I light up on 1 cigarette. Next day I was back to pack a day smoker again.
I was smoking almost 10years after that and I was starting to notice I am wheezing during night time when I go to sleep.
I thought I have to quit again and just did cold turkey like I did last time.
I notice this time I am so sleepy all the time and I have to take a nap almost every day.
Does anyone experience this also? And how are you preventing from it?
Jane
April 20, 2019 at 1:28 pmI smoked for 44 years I am 61 now I stopped smoking and pot to on feb 2019 I have lung fibrosis now so now no future for me I have 2 to 5 years to live but the hell its time
Abhi
June 18, 2018 at 9:36 amI started when I was 15 quited daily smoking 1 and a half year ago when I was 18 when I bought my bike.I quitted occasional rarely smoking about 10 months ago.Now I hit the gym and My depressions are decreased and Am kindof happy now.
Mike
June 18, 2018 at 6:15 amQD 6-28-08, marking 10 years next week. ?
Joe
June 16, 2018 at 8:53 pmI quit 4yrs ago. Remember this, the cravings last less than 3 minutes. I beat it when I dealt with it craving to craving. I would look ahead to a smoke free life. One day realized a month had passed.
kunal vasist
June 16, 2018 at 4:08 amto quit smoking you dont need any books,any chewing gums any medicine but only a strong will power untill and unless you don’t have it you cant quit
Sam
June 13, 2018 at 2:46 am16 may 2018 after 30 year smoke free day for me
Gary N
June 9, 2018 at 8:00 amAfter 52 years at 1 pack/day got me advanced emphasema/COPD. Thought I was indestructible but finally had a health reason to quit.
Last cig was 3/31/18. It has been tough – HUGE void inside. Had to keep reminding myself what I was trying to do. Breathing has improved
and it seems like circulation has improved so things are looking up. After 2+ months still have craving but not as intense. Congrats/good luck
to all going through this!
Kay
June 8, 2018 at 9:55 amMy quit date was 4/7/18, so yesterday was my 2 month mark. I quit cold turkey after being a smoker for 20+ years. I had 3 nicotine lozenges the first day as a non-smoker as I had a social event where I did NOT want to be snappy and irritable from not smoking, but after 3 that one day, none. I just wanted to pull the plug and be done!
What I’m enjoying most- not worrying about smelling like smoke. I have always been hyper conscientious about that, a ‘closet smoker’ of sorts, and it’s nice to not have to worry about showering and putting on fresh clothes to avoid smelling smoky, now I can just GO. I also am thrilled to be free from tracking how many smokes I had left and when I needed to get more (because you can NOT run out, right?). No more fretting over either of those things, what freedom! I had not realized how burdensome they were until I quit.
I rolled my own, which cost roughly $32 a month, so the financial benefit of quitting isn’t particularly tangible to me. But I have made a point to treat myself to a few small splurges that I usually wouldn’t, sort of as reward for sticking with it, and both times, the splurge was about what I would have spent on smokes for the month.
I was always the smoker who LOVED smoking, so for me to be 2 months smoke free is incredible! If you’ve quit and are struggling, hang in there, the cravings will lessen and pass faster and faster as time goes on. If you’re thinking of quitting, GO FOR IT, you’re worth it, you deserve your health!
I stay quit by reminding myself I do NOT want to restart that clock and lose all of my hard work these last 2 months. ‘Just’ one puff is all it will take to set e back to the starting line of quitting, and I’ve come too far to ever want to go back there!
Rick
June 5, 2018 at 9:24 pm12-31-16 my quit day! Totally don’t have any desires to return. I know if I don’t have one I will never have to smoke again.
Lee
June 5, 2018 at 1:19 pmQuit date 5/14/18
Val
June 4, 2018 at 6:59 pmAfter decades of heavy drinking I quit cold turkey 4 years ago and never looked back. I never thought I would ever be able to quit smoking after 40 years. Well, 6/1 was my quit day and I’m really determined to make it!
I’ve been using the patch – so far so good!
Mohammad Ali
June 4, 2018 at 3:30 amSo the article says that human body repairs itself almost completely in 15 years. The question is, how many years of abuse (smoking cigarettes) causes our body to get to that level of damage.
Does smoking cigarettes for 1 year may require less time to recover ? as compared to from effects of smoking for more than 10 years?
When is the point of maximum damage reached? how many years do I need to smoke, for my body to take full 15 years to recover. With in 1 year, 3 years, 5 years experience, 7 years experience?
John eckert
June 2, 2018 at 5:22 amWe stopped 31dec16 i smoked for 45 years and my wife for 30 years we haven’t had a smoke since and will never again
Radhakrish
June 1, 2018 at 6:10 amI stopped smoking on 26/05/2018 after smoking for 23 years.Gone Cold turkey.very pleasant life after quitting.not much cravings .anybody out there still smoking please stop and think,quit at the earliest. Excellent feel after giving up the nasty habit.
Kimh
May 31, 2018 at 4:08 pmI have been cigarette free for 20 days now. I have high blood pressure, AfIB, arrythmia, SOB, high cholesterol, and angina. I used Doterra Essential Oils, specifically Peppermint oil to quit (inhaled twirce). I did not have no cravings or ill effects. Stopping smoking has improved my breathing to the point that I have been able to start exercising. I am on my way to living a much healthier life. I smoked for over 42 years and it feels great to free of this devil.
Joj
May 31, 2018 at 12:30 amI quit 4/19/2018
Its been 40 days and on my 41 day i smoked 5 cic every one in my house smoke
I hated that i smoked i dont want to be a smoker again
Dont know what to do
My house is wild lots of fighting
Wanda Abernathy
May 29, 2018 at 6:46 pmI have stopped smoking!! Gone cold turkey…no cigarette since May 20, 2018. I am a 50+years smoker. I am feeling very excited about a new NON-smoking life. Folks, it’s breath or death! I am resolved!!
andy
June 3, 2018 at 10:50 amyes – i am a week in now. 7 days. a glass of wine at night has taking the edge off. after 25 years. cigerrettes still smell like crack. i smell them everywhere and it almost gets me excited like a long lost utopia.. strange,,
matt
May 29, 2018 at 2:16 amGreat day 2. Gardened, listened to game, watched game, had a few beers, ran errands in the car, got gas –all potentially dangerous activities– but no bad cravings and no new packs of cigarettes! Thank you Allen Carr for your book, which evidently has completely altered my way of thinking about smoking and quitting. The book says to stay confident so that’s what I’ll do.
Stephen
May 25, 2018 at 4:24 amI quit smoking early February and I will never go back to it, it not easy but no going back.
Elouisa Dawn
May 25, 2018 at 1:13 amIt’s been over 24 hours since my last cigarette. I have smoked on and off for over 25 years. I am using nicotine free vapes whenever I have a craving which helps so much. I have nicotine patches too but I haven’t needed one yet. I have a really bad cold at the moment, and my asthma is playing up so that makes quitting easier. Wish me luck, and good luck to everyone here x
Ankit jain
May 24, 2018 at 11:43 pmI quit 3 days back suddenly. But I am feeling normal. My body is not asking nicotine. Although I have been a regular smoker past 18 years.
Harley Baby
May 23, 2018 at 9:16 amI made the decision to quit smoking AGAIN, so I cut down to a 1/2 cig instead of a full one everytime I smoked. Then I saw an info brochure in my grandma’s dr’s office for Chantix. (To shorten this long story, I will skip some unimportant facts.) I actually quit 1 month BEFORE my actual Chantix quit date. I had a very rough time with the cravings, coughing, etc. I have since quit the Chantix cuz I felt it had alot to do with my severe coughing fits that lasted for sometimes over an hr and I was gasping for air. My dr claims it is my lungs healing. Ok, but this severe? I smoked for 35+ yrs and have developed COPD, asthma and emphysema. My dr says these will get better but she also said they will never fully heal 100%. I now crave choc and sweets in place of a cig. This doesnt help my diabetes. But luckily, my blood sugars arent going thru the roof. In 10 days, I will hv been smoke free for 3 months now and its still very hard at times. But I will not go back to smoking and start all over at square one to quit again…….
Stacey M Lincoln
May 23, 2018 at 8:43 amQuit date 5/20/18. Age 52, and have smoked on and off from age 12 to 16…full time by 16. Spent the last two years working out, losing weight, eating healthy only to find I have a stomach ulcer, and one on my esophagus. Had a scare with a chest s-ray with spot on lung. Has a mammogram scare. Decided I was done with all the scares, and smoking was no longer worth it. And boy, did I love my cigs! Using Chantix to help. Still feel a little irritated, and grumpy. Hubby trying to quit on his own…he is down to four a day the last three days, and goes to the garage to do it. Good luck to all of us!
Lala Jameson
May 22, 2018 at 8:41 amI’m 29 and have been smoking for 13 years. This morning only marks my first 24 hours smoke free but I recently found out I was pregnant so it’s now or never.. so far, I’ve only really experienced some agitation. I haven’t really had any major cravings but, of course, I’m just now going into my second day.
Naum Shuv
July 3, 2018 at 11:49 amOh, pregnancy is maybe the greatest reason to kick the unhealthy habit! After you will have quitted for nine months, you will have a good chance to get rid of the cancer sticks permanently.
GOOD LUCK!
Ravi Regmi
May 22, 2018 at 1:52 amI was quit smoking on 20th june 2017 I feel very energetic and fresh and I do exercise and meditation and morning walk everyday. I fee very fresh and energetic
Muhammad Mazhar Ali
May 20, 2018 at 6:59 amI was quit smoking on 17th of may at 12:25am, i feel so good and no side effects i faced.
Latisa
May 19, 2018 at 4:06 pm5/6/18 is when I quit….smoked for 20 years straight lol but because of my heavenly father I was able to quit cold turkey no help just his and I just want to give him all the praise for helping me….. God bless everyone..??
wahla
May 18, 2018 at 4:56 pmevery x smoker is always to be a smoker
wahla
May 18, 2018 at 5:01 pmmy quitting date now 14 april 2018 . . before this quit i quit for many times but finally this time i left it for more than one month. . still trying trying trying not to smoke but seeing my roommates smoking is very hard time
patty shane
May 17, 2018 at 4:18 pmI quit smoking April 18 2014 the day before major lung surgery due to lung cancer. I am one of the lucky ones they caught it in time but i did have to go through 2 lung operations and had my right and left upper lobes removed. I do get short of breath but oxygen level remains at 97 -98 % i just do not have lung volume any more i am cancer free but i wish i quit years ago because it has limited my activities due to SOB with any activity
Guru Sharma
May 17, 2018 at 8:22 amI smoked for nearly 35 years, I was never a heavy smokers , my average was 5-6 sticks a day and on the heavy side on some days will be 10 sticks. On 5th February 2015 at 10 PM I had my last puff and decided to quit for I did not like smoking anymore. No withdrawal symptoms , No cravings , No side effects except that I have put on 10 Kg on my body weight, Today 17 May 2018 , I have no intention of picking that stick again, I have not seen any benefits than when I was smoking except that I feel good about quitting the habit, It’s not difficult if you have s strong will power. Good Luck
Jo
May 15, 2018 at 7:02 pmDay 19 for me. Using Patches. Don’t really want to quit, but they cost so much now. When I first started smoking in 1994 a pack of 40 only cost $9.95 fast forward to 2018 with the tobacco tax now a pack of 40 costs $44.95. But I will do it.
Raj
May 14, 2018 at 3:13 pm5/7/2018 is my quit day.
I don’t smoke more than 4 a day but when i drink i smoke about 10.
Hopefully it should be easy on me. I come back to this page and check my comment everyday to keep me motivated and this is something serious for me.
Thanks for all the wonderful comments out there which really helps for getting motivation
Sourav
May 13, 2018 at 2:33 pm8 days and it will continue. ….
I hope i can control my anxiety as well as the need to take cigarretes….
Thank you
Yassine
May 13, 2018 at 12:00 pm05/13/2018 is my quit day
Dama
May 9, 2018 at 11:19 amThe 7th May 2018 was my quit day. Yipee to a more healthy life
Jeff
May 8, 2018 at 7:41 pmGiving up 3 years ago was the best thing I ever did.. looking back as a smoker I don’t know how I did this to myself.
Manoj
May 8, 2018 at 7:40 amTo day is my quit day. It seems very hard to stops smoking . Passed 8 hrs and decided to stick on with it You can find good tips on WHAT HAPPENS TO YOUR BODY WHEN YOU QUIT SMOKING
Laurie
May 6, 2018 at 4:25 pmI am so happy to find this website! Congrats to those of you who have either stopped or made the decision it is time to stop smoking cigarettes. I am very proud of you 🙂
I am a 52 year old female who has been around secondhand smoke from when I was born until I was 20. I personally started smoking when I was 14. Marlboro red shorts was my choice when I started smoking. I ended smoking with Marlboro Red label 100s on November 1 2017. Cigarettes ruled my life and everything I did. I didn’t realize it until I stopped smoking and was able to see it. I never thought I would stop smoking… although I knew one day smoking would some day kill me… like it killed my dad.
In October 2017, i thought I had caught a cold but I ended up very sick and I was only getting worse after 2 weeks so finally gave in and went to the doctor. I ended up in the emergency room thru immediate care with an oxygen saturation of 88 and unable to carry on a conversation without having to catch my breath. I ended up having pneumonia. It was horrible. My sense of smell and taste both changed drastically and it lasted for several weeks. What normally was appealing was putrid to me, especially the smell of cigarettes. There were two days in the hospital that I was not able to smoke, which I know the inability to go smoke helped me thru the beginning of my cigarette free new life. While I was in the hospital I was scared. I prayed for God’s help. I thanked him for making cigarettes smell so bad. I also promised Him I would accept this great gift and vowed to use it to my advantage. I asked Him if he would please walk with me through this horrible time and give me strength I promised to do my very best to stay smoke free. I had NO confidence I could do this alone.
It is quite clear to me now that He did give me the internal strength to stay away from cigarettes, and the amount of attaboys and pats on the back from family, friends, and even strangers in some instances helped me along the way.
Now here comes the part you all might think I cheated… I smoked marijuana when I felt the need to smoke. I believe the lack of the physical part of smoking where you take the deep breath and you can feel the smoke hit the back of your throat and expanding in your lungs is highly missed and part of the addiction. At least it was for me. It helped me, although I didn’t always want to get high, which I was quickly able to cut back on pot for that reason.
I have officially been cigarette free 6 months and 6 days 🙂 it was the Best decision I made in decades. I hardly cough now, although there is a clearing out process your lungs go thru for a few months and continues when you have COPD like me. I remember the first time I could take in a deeeep breath and I could breathe deeper and my lungs felt bigger and more flexible (if that makes any sense) with No cough!!!!! It was amazing! That was about 4 months ago. I started noticing bigger and better changes it seems every day since. 🙂
If you are trying to stop smoking…. please don’t give up if you have bad days or moments. They will pass. Take a DEEP breath and hold it for a few seconds then let out. Do it again if you need to. Find something else to do or think about. Ask for help from people you know who have quit or your higher power you have trust in. If you don’t believe in God or you have never really given it much thought, ask for some help out loud. It can’t hurt to ask for strength during this time… because you are going to need it!
God bless and have faith you can do this 🙂
Laurie
Meryssa
May 6, 2018 at 9:03 am22 turning 23 this year2018 n as of about 16 hours ago technically yesterday5/5/18 I quit n now I can’t sleep. i wish all quitters the best of luck.
Alex
May 4, 2018 at 8:40 pmToday is my quit day. I’m 36, 37 in July. I’ve promised my daughter I’ll do this… again :/
I’m tired of the wheezing in the morning. Coughing up junk for an hour after getting up like I’m so much older. I’m a fairly active person, horses and on my feet for work. The shortness of breath has gotten considerably worse this past year. So it’s time.
I wish that it didn’t feel like I were on this literally insane loop. Where my brain says cigarette. And I say no, daughter. Saving money. Sick of feeling this way *deep breaths*. Get it under control and LESS than 30 seconds it starts over. I’m exhausted, my shoulders and head feel so tight, my head feels like it’s splitting into two. My anxiety is through the roof. I’m not sure how all of you amazing brave souls did this. I’m talking myself out of buying a pack every single minute, and that’s while working. On a 17 day stretch at work with only two days off. I work for a big cooperation that expects a lot (we are very short handed so I picked a great time to stress my body out more lmao) and I feel like I’m not performing anywhere near my best. I also feel sleepy, I never ever get sleepy but I’m fighting droopy eyes and poor concentration all day. I don’t drink coffee so that isn’t an answer, I like energy drinks but that makes me want to smoke. So I’m chugging water have no energy feel like dying.
I love that I found this though, maybe your stories will motivate me to stick with it ?
Karen
May 4, 2018 at 3:38 pmI had smoked for 47 years, and I quit on 9-9-17. I used acupuncture, and so glad that I did. I feel so much better other than gaining quite a bit of weight. Going to start working on that soon. Still have a little bit of shortness of breath, but I’m almost certain that it’s from the weight gain. I think once that I lose some of this weight, I will really feel like my old self. Best thing that I have ever done for myself. Congrats everyone, certainly not an easy thing to do.
greg
May 4, 2018 at 1:34 pmI Quit smoking one year ago today, I swear I have had nothing but health problems ever since I quit smoking, I’m ready to start back.
Donna
May 3, 2018 at 2:49 amMy quit date is May 5, 2018
My arteries clogged. One in left side stented 1/21/2015 and my heart stopped 3 times. Next one was 3/13/2018 they cleaned that one out. Smoking is causing my arteries to harden & veins narrow. I’ll die if I don’t stop. Have my main heart valve with small blockage. I got patches, gum, candy nicotine, and vape. I need that book. Going to look on EBay
joanne scott
May 2, 2018 at 8:40 pmfor all of you just quitting please keep going its the best feeling in the world to be smoke free, good luck!!
joanne scott
May 2, 2018 at 8:38 pmi will be off cigaretttes 15 years on 19th dec 2018 the best thing i have done i smoked 20 a day for 20 years but decided i wanted to see my grandchildren come in to this world and i now have a wee grandson of 8 years of age and heres to more!!
Alok Kumar Roy
May 2, 2018 at 6:50 amI have quit smoking from 1st May 2018.
Rach
April 26, 2018 at 9:53 amToday is my quit day, I have to admit..Im terrified ..of not having that thing thats always been with me, of trying and failing…again!, I tried and beat it for 3 months over 3 years ago but went back with a night out and having “just ONE”…never is just one tho is it. So I am back facing the demon who has been with me since age 9, Im now 48, Shocking to see children smoking at 16…but I was 9…my poor lungs are begging me to stop now…Im Going to win this time and never ever smoke again…I promise ME I will not smoke another cigarette EVER !!
Thank you all for your stories of motivation and real experience, if you can do it…SO CAN I !!! xx
Devonne Fisher
May 6, 2018 at 9:06 pmI’m so proud I get to put my name here. I Quit August 25th 2017. I smoked for 50 years started when I was 15 I’m 65. I never ever thought I could Quit but here I am best thing I have ever done 7 the hardest thing I have ever done .
Devonne Fisher
May 6, 2018 at 9:10 pmRach you can do this trust me if I can you can. I was so addicted for many many years. I said if cigs go up I’m quitting, I didn’t not right away. I’m not going to lie it was hard. I eat whatever i wanted to but I also made sure I didn’t gain a lot of weight. Every thing they say is true food taste better, I feel better, I didn’t even know i wasn’t taking in a deep breath until I quit. Never think you can have just one you cant. Just continue to stop, &You can do this you can
Angie
April 25, 2018 at 6:31 pmI have been smoke free for 25 days. I am using patch and vaping with no nicotine. I have smoke for 35+ years and have COPD. My first grandchild is due to arrive in June and I have decided that this is the time. I have tried numerous other times and failed, but not this time. I haven’t really had any cravings for one and if I do I go to the smoking app on my phone and see how many cigarettes I have NOT smoked and how much money I have saved so far. It’s not worth it.
ARGHA BANERJEE
April 25, 2018 at 10:43 amAfter smoking nearly past six years from now one week ago I stopped smoking. I got nearly 3 three time craving a day mostly after having my meals.The best part is when I go to Gym and do the treadmill when I smoked I don’t even run for 1 km at one go but now I can run for 2 km easily. That time I am feeling proud of myself.
Debbie
April 23, 2018 at 3:09 pmWell it has been 28 years since I quit for the final time. Was the best thing I have ever done. Having a heart attack at the age of 31, will scare the crap out of anyone. But I did go back and smoke after almost 2 years. It took me another 2 years to quit, but then I quit again for good. Now it has been 28 years and 5 months since the last time I smoked. Best thing I could have done for myself.
MohaveDweller
April 18, 2018 at 9:09 pmI’m in 50hrs of quitting, it’s hell but reading all ypur comments is helping me realize I’m not alone in this, thank you all for telling ypur stories and quit dates
Johnny
April 17, 2018 at 2:35 amDay 9, for some reason I feel like I am struggling more today, reading this looking for inspiration to stay off them.
Guess I just need to stay positive that I can do this! And I will!
Thank you everybody who posted, just helped remind why we need to stop.
Jessay
April 12, 2018 at 5:46 amToday is my quit date 4/12/2018 only been smoke free for about a half an hour I started smoking when I was 14 and for years smoked 2-3 packs a day but I got down to smoking 1 pack a day I am 27 turning 28 next month. I have yet to feel the withdrawal effects as it’s only been a half an hour and a lot of the time I only smoked every hour or 2 so I’m guessing around there will be when I really start to feel a craving for it but by then I’ll be in bed hopefully asleep I know for everyone it is different when they quit smoking for some it is harder to get through the withdrawal symptoms I am really not sure if this will be easier for me or harder when they really start to kick in because I have tried to quit several times before with the patches(didn’t work) chantix(made me feel nauseous) and even vaping(didn’t help the cravings just made me want to smoke a cigarette more then before) so I am now trying the cold turkey way seeing as everything else has failed me so I am just going to get this over with go through the withdrawal and hopefully become successful at this like many of you commenting. I am definitely not out of the woods just yet it’s only the beginning of my trip but I am focused I want to quit smoking because I will be saving about 300-400 dollars a month plus I hate the fact that I can barely breathe out of my nose and I am not sure as of yet until I see my doctor but I might have LPR (laryngopharyngeal reflux) which makes me feel like I have a mucus bubble in the back of my throat so I am always clearing my throat and it can also eventually lead to cancer in the throat if I do have it. I came here to read the timeline on what to expect throughout the weeks of recovery and I am remembering the saying N.O.P.E which means Not One Puff Ever. Here is to hoping this is the last time and final time I quit smoking.
Altaf Shah
April 11, 2018 at 6:36 amI quit on 1st March 2018 and now almost 42 days have passed and my anxiety level has gone down but still have problems with my sleep but I am positive and hope I shall overcome.
Doddie
April 11, 2018 at 12:44 amStarted quitting since Holy Thursday (March 29, 2018). Has been SMOKEFREE since Sunday (April 08, 2018), just on my fourth day…
I have been smoking for more than 35 years, Ironically, i have been experiencing more pronounced shortness of breaths since I started quitting smoking…
Carlo Pogi
April 8, 2018 at 3:49 pm01APR2018.. no fooling…☺️
Its been a week now..
On my 3rd day i felt some withdrawals until today and cravings.
I thought i can never do it.. im just so happy right now.. thank God..
Mayra G
April 5, 2018 at 10:19 pmI just quit 03/09/2018 27 days…. Congrats to you all I can only hope to get as far as you. Thanks for the inspiration
ty lew
April 5, 2018 at 10:14 pmToday is day #3.
I haven’t felt the need to yell or hurt someones feelings this whole time.
And I still have my job.
I feel confident that this is going to be successful.
April Bexson
April 4, 2018 at 12:57 amIm going to try and quit today the only thing is im so scared of the lung problems i will get with this. Does anyone have any advice?
Marian
April 3, 2018 at 3:09 pmMy quit date was three days ago, and it’s my first time trying to quit ..Am 29 years n v been smoking for 5 years…My breath is better n v saved my life a lot
Pravesh
March 30, 2018 at 4:00 pmMy quit day is 1 June 2012.. it’s worth it pls quit smoking.!!!
RDW
March 27, 2018 at 2:23 pmJan 2015! Haven’t looked back since. I decided i didn’t want to die of Lung or esophageal cancer, which was the greatest inspiration.
Christopher Paul
March 24, 2018 at 1:55 amMy quit day was 28 Feb 18. Used champix. Still have minor cravings but been able to sustain being a non smoker. Best favour I could’ve done myself. ?
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March 23, 2018 at 3:55 pmThank you for the auspicious writeup. It in fact was a amusement account it. Look advanced to more added agreeable from you! However, how could we communicate?
Jayavarman mani
March 23, 2018 at 2:03 pmMy quit date 19th eve 5:15pm
Brijith
March 22, 2018 at 8:02 pmCompleted One year. Quit Date :22 March 2017
Limbani
March 22, 2018 at 8:52 amI am 49 and have smoked since I was 19. You people are giving me the inspiration that I need. I am now 6 hours into my smoke free world and promised myself never to go back to cigarettes. Going by the experiences of my colleagues here, I know it is not going to be easy but I am determined.
Amit Upadhyay
March 21, 2018 at 7:11 amMy quit day was 17 march 2018
Kishu
March 21, 2018 at 6:37 amMy Quit day is 18/03/18.
Hope I’ll continue.
Ven
March 21, 2018 at 4:09 amI am 3 months “clean.” – Smoked a pack a day (menthol) over 40 years. I enjoyed smoking! The will to quit and be smoke free has to dominate the need to smoke. I tried quitting many times. I am successful this time!! I feel good, really good and I smell good, really good! LOL. I have nicotine gum (4mg) to get me over the rough times, but otherwise the cravings are pretty much gone. I will NEVER pick up another one of those awful cigarettes. Addiction is a terrible terrible thing, I applaud everyone who has quit- BRAVO! I too, am a non smoker!!
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The Count
March 19, 2018 at 12:33 amMy quit day, Tuesday, January 2 2018 at 4:19pm, I finished my last cigarette. 75 days smoke free as of this posting. Cold Turkey
Charmaine
March 17, 2018 at 5:51 pmI quit on the 12/3/2018 today I feel awful I really want to go and buy some tobacco but haven’t so far roll on 9pm when the shop is closed
Dennis
March 17, 2018 at 4:17 pmAfter 25 years of smoking ,and a bout with a life threating infection I decided enough is enough ; Columbus day 2016 I QUIT SMOKING . ever since that day I have a tall glass of milk and I take a vitamin every day .
Pete
March 17, 2018 at 3:23 pmHmm…..its day 3 for me.Have been a smoker for 46yrs but never a heavy smoker and have been rolling my own with a filter in for 35yrs. My doctor tells me i am the worst type of smoker because i smoke maybe 6-10 a day and enjoy them. I am wondering how long i can go before i have a smoke because i am not sure i am 100% committed to giving up. Have been interested in the comments left by everyone and would like to wish you all good luck and good health
Maggie S
March 13, 2018 at 1:54 pmMy quit day was March 9th. The cravings were horrendous yesterday, Day 3. I am on day 4 and not so cranky today. Every time I want a smoke I go do a quick jaunt around the neighborhood. I am then reminded of why I quit so I can breathe. Thanks for all the stories above. I will never pick one of these up again because I do not want to go through the withdrawal symptoms again:) I wish everyone luck on their journey!
Whwjenjdnd
February 28, 2018 at 5:53 amMy quit day is today
Ian kelly
February 27, 2018 at 5:27 amI stopped smoking on 26 January 2018 feel lot better apart from a really bad sore throat but I don’t fancy a fag at all witch supprise me
Hossam
February 26, 2018 at 11:46 pmthis was the third time I quit smoking and this was 2/25/2018 I’m afraid this steps are going to happen for me or not as I quite smoking twice before
sade
February 26, 2018 at 1:07 pmI quit last Friday cold turkey. The cravings drive me insane but I vent given up. this is my fourth time quitting and I’m praying its my last. wish me luck and I mean maximum luck because I’m going to need it!!!
Michelle
February 21, 2018 at 5:11 pmMy quit date was Saturday February 17th. Early, but I am already feeling the positive physical affects. 🙂 My husband continues to smoke which is a little tough to be around but my house has never been so clean since that is my go to when I begin to crave. 🙂
Rapunzel
February 19, 2018 at 7:54 pmWell in one hour it will be five days. The third day almost killed me but I made it through that day and the weekend. I’ve been smoking for close to 50 years and now I’m paying the price. Don’t ever say that cancer won’t get you. It just might and the waiting to find out is almost as hard as quitting the habit that started it. Good luck everyone.
MAB
January 12, 2018 at 6:26 pmIt has been now 50hrs to smoke my last cigarette. I do feel some changes in my mood and behavior, I hope to stick onto my decision and not to go back smoking. Trying my best!!!
Lori
January 11, 2018 at 8:08 amThis is my first smoke free day. I have quit before, however, I seem to always go back to this habit. I am really optimistic this time 🙂
steve
January 10, 2018 at 4:38 pmquitting smoking is the best success story in my life.steve from KENYA
Cory
January 8, 2018 at 2:04 pmI have to say, I had no idea that quitting smoking would change things so quickly, I have to share this, and this is less than one week from quitting
Before quitting:
Blood pressure: 130/90
Heart rate: 95bpm
After 5 days of no smoking:
Blood pressure: 115/70
Heart rate: 72bpm
Not too mention, I have been having problems with my circulation, developing PAD (peripheral artery disease) which was making it difficult to walk long distances, after these 5 days, the difference is night and day, I can walk farther, faster and can feel warmth in my calves and feet from my circulation improving.
Also, my lung capacity, even only improving by maybe 10%, has made an enormous difference.
My heart palpitations have stopped, I’m sleeping better, less headaches….so many changes. Gotta quit people!!!!
Former Smoker
January 1, 2018 at 9:32 pmI have been nicotine free since June 28, 2016 a total of 550 days after smoking for over 35 years. Not a day goes by that I don’t think about that feeling I used to get when I had my smoke “moment”. I have gained 12 pounds (now 172 despite working out regularly) and gone through a period of what most would call depression. I thought everything would be great and somethings are (I smell so much better and I don’t have to duck out from social settings to have a fix) but I tell people often that I really don’t feel better I just added a tire tube to my mid section! What keeps me going is the thought of dying a terrible death. My mother had a stroke at 80 after 60 years of heavy smoking and she struggled mightily until her passing six years later. I want to die a dignified death (like we can control that!) so I have decided that I can never have “just one” and hope the good Lord blesses me with a great ending. My only regret in life is that I ever started in the first place! Good luck to all former smokers!
ashish mondal
April 4, 2018 at 9:52 amnot under stand your feelings
Ghaxanfar
December 31, 2017 at 10:05 amThe day I quit was Nov 21st 2017
bjean55
December 29, 2017 at 8:57 pmMy quit date is August 29, 2017. I smoked for 23 years and am 62 years old. I had made all the right noises (at least in my head) about quitting smoking for a while, but my chest started feeling weird and it scared me. I would feel the need to cough, but nothing broke loose and it didn’t change anything. My insurance provider gave me patches and gum free. The patches might have been OK, but I knew I couldn’t do the gum because I’m always on the verge of periodontal disease and you have to chew that stuff, then hold it between cheek and gum for a while to get the benefit and I knew it would wreck my teeth and gums. I finally decided that, in MY mind, it would just be trading one addiction for another so I elected to go cold turkey. I have read on the web that this is not the most effective way to quit, but it was my choice. I had tried to quit a couple of years ago and just had nicotine withdrawal that made me a totally crazy person. This time it wasn’t quite so bad….at least I don’t have any memory of it. My trouble is that I’m just not really enjoying this. And the weird thing is that I had to have gallbladder surgery a little more than a week after I quit. My body was NOT HAPPY with me after the surgery. I already had a-fib that was diagnosed about a year ago. Well, the day I got home from the hospital, my a-fib kicked in and wouldn’t quit! My heart rate went nuts and my cardiologist increased my meds. THEN my blood pressure went nuts and I had to go on blood pressure medicine. I thought my health was supposed to IMPROVE after quitting, but I’m falling apart. I thought I’d be so proud of myself once I had quit, but I’m not. I had lost 30 pounds prior to quitting, but after quitting smoking AND having gallbladder surgery, I’ve gained most of that back. The temptation to just give in and start back is very real. It’s not all the time and I know it’s just psychological, but it is there and when it comes it is really strong.
Jessica Tyne
December 29, 2017 at 4:29 pmSo i am currently on day 3 of not smoking i can feel the symptoms are getting more intense. but i am using the gym a lot to kill time and take my mind off smoking i have had a few pulls on a vapor in the night time as this is when the cravings are at there worse. i will fight on an defeat this. been trying for 2 years now but this time feels different.
Brandi
December 29, 2017 at 6:01 amFinished day 5 of quitting today. Have PTSD. Man, that makes it tough BUT it got real easy remembering why I suddenly quit: first ever asthma attack followed immediately by full blown panic attack. Yup, that’s my daily motivation. Scared hubby so much he won’t smoke near me for fear of another attack. Little advise for anyone listening: Xanax helps calm ya down while quitting. I found the regular aids gave me nightmares. With PTSD that’s not a good thing. Anyway, quitting much easier with Xanax. Yeah, I will have to wean off that too but I did it before and it’s a walk in the park compared to nicotine. Being a smoker means you’re selfish. We all know it. The motivation you need to quit has to be huge…i mean….enough to overcome that selfishness. Whatever it takes. For me it was a first class ride in an ambulance on Christmas eve 2017 gasping for air. ER Dr did nothing so I remained in that state until day after xmas when primary came back from holiday. Imagine 3 days gasping for air. Yup, that’s how strong my addiction (selfishness) was. 25 yrs at 2 packs per day. I can’t believe I’m still alive. No amount of withdrawal symptoms bother me after that ordeal. God Bless
Tati Britner
December 27, 2017 at 9:22 pmI quit last Friday, almost a week. I don’t want it I’m done!
I GOT THIS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Camden Riley Norris II
December 24, 2017 at 7:35 amI’m going on day 7 of being a non-smoker assisted by Chantix. Wish I had used this years ago. Can’t believe how much easier it’s made quitting for me. A support network is very helpful. Even if it’s just bragging about each smoke free day that’s gone by on Facebook. Stick with it, don’t think you’ve beat it & not finish the medication finish it out. Quit once. Good luck!
Stacey M Lincoln
May 23, 2018 at 8:52 amI am day three of not smoking with Chantix. Did you quit? Was it hard getting off the Chantix?
Hariharan
December 20, 2017 at 9:34 amPlease help me anyone. i want to quit as i had smoked packet a day for 9 years. i have the fear of dying. please help me
bjean55
December 29, 2017 at 9:06 pmGoogle quittrain. This is a message board for people who want to quit. You need encouragement. These people have all been there. If you have insurance, ask about nicotine replacement therapy…patches and gum. It wasn’t for me, but millions of people find it helpful and some insurance providers will give it to you free. Write down reasons to quit. Go to https://smokefree.gov/build-your-quit-plan. It will help you write out a quit plan. When it’s complete, you can print it. Figure out how much a month you spend on cigarettes and make a list of things you could do with that money (trips, new car, clothes, shoes).
Ric
December 19, 2017 at 4:48 pm1/1/2018 will be 26 years since my last cigarette, I remember the first couple of weeks were hell but after that clear sailing. I picked up my first cigarette at 9 and started smoking full time by 11 I quit New Year’s Day 1992 at 0200, I remember this clearly as though it was yesterday.
Ecosurf
December 18, 2017 at 2:18 pmI quit 3 days ago on 12/15/2017. Smoked for 16 years this time. I had stopped smoking before for about 10 years after smoking for over 35 years. Stupid reasons caused me to start again, but behind me now.
The main reason for quitting this time, besides general health, is that I am facing her surgery for blocked arteries. I get winded easily and get a burning in my chest. I want to get back to my active lifestyle as well.
Wish me luck, as I wish all here strength and resolve in accomplishing goals.
Millano
December 16, 2017 at 6:09 amI was a smoker for 27 years. This is my 3rd attempt for a cessation of smoking. The first 2 attempt, I didn’t have any motivation, and for this time I have stopped for a week. I am craving and it was painful…but I will survive..Let God do the rest..
Katalin
December 11, 2017 at 10:58 pmQuit for three years in 1985 when a carton was $33 CDN…now quit again on Oct 21/17 when a carton has ballooned to $127 CDN…mostly because the feds decided to police us by banning all menthol cigarettes…it was time to quit anyway due to the cost.
Doing well…coughing has stopped.
Greg
December 11, 2017 at 5:29 pmHI There, My Quit Day was 12/12/14. My 3 year anniversary is tomorrow… best thing I ever did and I quit before I was diagnosed with (NSCLC)… I am in remission for the Lung Cancer and I feel Great… If you don’t Smoke (don’t Start) and if you Do Smoke(QUIT)… Please Quit!
Aka
November 30, 2017 at 6:14 amQuit the hell of cigarette on 28th November, 2017. To God be the glory.
CJ
November 29, 2017 at 10:37 pmI’d tried everything after 45 years, but realized I didn’t really want to quit. Then, I developed a tumor on my heart caused by too little oxygen. My surgeon said he’d remove it only if I quit smoking. I got rid of all cigs and butts and bought a bottle of whiskey. I knew if I was drinking I wouldn’t get in my car and drive to get cigarettes. Haven’t smoked since.
Did the doctor remove the tumor? Yes. Do I feel better? Yes. Do I crave cigarettes every day? Yes.
This is a lot like a 12 step program. One day at a time.
Moran
November 28, 2017 at 11:38 pmI quit on Saturday 11/25, I have been smoking for 30 years. This is the first time I have tried to quit. Feeling strange, sleepy, anyone know why?
Is this something expected. I normally sleep late at night mainly watching TV and smoking. Last 2 nights fell asleep at 8:00 pm, been feeling sleepy all day at work. Is this the withdrawal symptom that I hear about or something else.
Hope I make it.
Khan
November 27, 2017 at 12:57 pmMy quit date 20/11 and I do feel the cravings immediately after having every meal but that don’t last more than 80 seconds. I don’t miss smoking at all, so much so that I accompany my smoking colleagues but don’t smoke, stand at a distance from the smoke and do not feel the urge to smoke. Amazingly I can feel so much energy in me.
Aveek Dutta
November 27, 2017 at 10:44 amMy Quit day 2nd Nov, 2017.
3 weeks without a cigg from 1 pack a day.
Smoked for around 12 years from the age of 18
Cold Turkey quit.
It was difficult for the first couple of days.
But thing are better now.
Hope I can stop the urge and not smoke again.
Regards
Aveek Dutta
Steve T
November 17, 2017 at 1:59 pmHello all, I quit after 28 yrs of smoking 1 1/2 packs or more a day.
My quit day– Cold Turkey was 10-22-2017. So nice to see the post’s here, I have painful swallowing, with a sore neck, and can no longer burp when I need to, painful as well. But I will never start again, that is for sure. I have an appt. with a throat specialist for 10-12-2017, almost 3 weeks away, but every day I feel a little better, and hopefully will not need to see him (fingers crosses :)) Good Luck to us ALL!
Sam
November 16, 2017 at 10:55 pmAfter 15 years of smoking, I went cold turkey about 1 year ago (2016/11/21), it was too hard for me, I am a programmer, and I always smoked when I had to think about the algorithm and plan what should I do, and also I was used to smoke when I was reading books or walking or thinking … smoke was a part of every thing that I was doing in my life.
quitting smoking is my best thing that I have done, believe me it worth every minutes.
And now I am a runner, and I can breath again 🙂
Tip: drinking water helped me a lot 😉
Brian
November 14, 2017 at 4:37 amWhen I started smoking, cigarettes cost about 23¢ a pack. I smoked (heavily) for 49 years starting when I was 11 years old. I was up to two packs per day when I finally quit and switched to vaping e-cigarettes on March 27, 2017 (my wife’s 60th birthday. I didn’t tell her, I just stopped.) Since I was a heavy smoker I began with the maximum nicotine content liquid I could find for my e-cigarettes. I tried at least 5 different brands before I settled into my current daily routine. (I am not going to tell you what I settled on as I am not endorsing any particular product. Just stay away from any “free” offers. When it comes to self-help advice, you get what you pay for, but price is not indicative of value.) I gradually reduced the nicotine content over the next 6-7 months, but I found I was using the e-cig more often as the nicotine concentration decreased. I am currently battling my inner demons so I don’t backslide and increase the nicotine content on my next purchase. I don’t know if this will help anyone or not, but if it does I will be gratified. After the first few weeks, I was craving a “real smoke” so badly I thought I would go insane. It tapered off after that. I went from 36 mg to 6 mg of nicotine delivery over the course of 7 months. Around the 8 month mark I began having nightmares about smoking, guilt, not being able to stop. Talking with friends and family about those nightmares helped. No man is an island.
To anyone trying to free themselves of cigarettes I would encourage you to stick with it. You can do it. YOU CAN DO IT. It will not be easy, but nothing worthwhile is ever easy.
Marie Alldritt
November 11, 2017 at 8:19 amHi all iv not smoked for 11 days i smell better breath better iv been using champix of my doc and a vap best thing iv ever done
Jon
November 8, 2017 at 1:18 pmThis is probably my 20+ attempt. I haven’t smoked today. I really want to quit but the urge is an absolute killer. I am hoping to read this one day and be proud like you are all. My wishes are with you to you and your beloved ones. I hope I could be as strong as you this time.
Krish
November 8, 2017 at 9:09 amForgot to mention the benefits am experiencing.
I used to have regular migraine 2 or 3 times a month. Now its like 1 or 2 times in last 18 months.
Before i get tired quiet soon. Now i run on treadmill for 30 mins and do exercise for another 45 mins without any issue.
Last week I played Frisbee for quiet a long time with my 7 yr old son in the park. I was delighted how i managed to run around & seeing my wife so happy seeing me active like.
Altogether, its great to be a nonsmoker.
Krish
November 8, 2017 at 9:04 amI quit nearly 18 months ago, it was relatively easy than i thought. But i smoked few normal cigarettes on two occasions during this 18 months, during my get together party with my friends. Is that okay or my recovering process start from beginning every time?
Botan.ali
November 7, 2017 at 10:29 pmI am quitting after 16 years of die hard smoking
11-07-2017
I hope that everyone finds the courage to quit smoking too
Don Juan
October 31, 2017 at 8:20 amWow, I am also thinking of quitting, I am tired of the terrible cough I have, any ideas on how I should start
Enrique Mcaboy
October 24, 2017 at 10:45 pmThere is noticeably a bundle to know about this. I assume you made certain nice points in features also.
Vishnu
October 22, 2017 at 9:21 pmHi guys, I was addicted towards smoking and now I stopped smoking cigarettes. I started smoking in 2011 and it’s been 7 years. I tried to quit smoking but unfortunately I started smoking again after few days because of hyper tension etc etc. in the month of August I started getting pain in the left side of the head and I thought it is just a normal headache. Later on I realized that the pain is still there even after taking k medicines , I have been diagonosed and get to know that I had brain clot. Doctor said it need to be opearated asap , I was shocked to hear that and got scared as well. I got admitted and opearted in hospital and clot was removed , it’s been more than one month whereas I haven’t smoked and going very smooth, I didn’t even looked at the smoking part because all.my focus is on clot and I forget about smoking. I am very happy that this is the first and last, I will never ever smoke again. Your loved one also cares about you when this situation arises and you will start feel.guilty. anyways I wanted to say the that only thing to quit smoking is your will power and mind divertion
I have gone through all side effects after quitting smoking. You will start feeling thirsty, little headache,insomania no sleep , loss of sensation in smell and taste,don’t worry , everything will.be back after a month or so.and it increases your capabilities to smell.and taste again
Health is wealth guys. If we will play with health and then there is no option left.
Quitting Smoking Needs Will Power
jim
October 22, 2017 at 6:47 pmi stopped 16 days ago its been okay some days are worse than others
i need to do this though i smoked 40 cigs a day, but then i got a lung infection which changed everything. it really made me think and realise what was important
the main thing was my grand children . i need to do this if not for me for them, so yes i wished i had done years ago,
Angel Bautista
October 20, 2017 at 3:23 amI am quitting today after 8 years. Good luck to me. I hope I can make it. Please..:)
Naden Wright
October 18, 2017 at 12:10 pmi gave the habit up yesterday using champix, im 36 and have smoked for over twenty years! in all honesty i have not given up before because i always thought i could do everything i liked to a suitable standard, things like playing football, spearfishing and hiking. i promised my wife that id definitely quit the day she told me she was pregnant, well iv got a son, hes already 1 year old i was still smoking/!! i havnt felt this mix of emotions ever before, one minute im ashamed for finding it soooo hard to quit even though im doing it for my son and wife, the other minute im proud of myself and the next is just a blur as all im concentrating on is the fact that i cant be feeling like this all the time! i consider myself to be strong willed for everything else that life throws at me but stopping the ciggs is a constant warzone inside my head. i went from 40 plus gigs the day before yesterday to none yesterday. cutting down never seemed to work for me because i always enjoyed smoking and i would never cut the amount even when i tried to. whatever happens im not going to smoke again! i think i owe it to my wife and know my son.
Pete
October 10, 2017 at 12:03 pmMy quit day 03/14/2017
Alex Betts
October 5, 2017 at 1:34 amI smoked 3mg nicotine one time and quit after I saw this.
Gus
October 1, 2017 at 4:53 amI’m stopping today trying so hard
Johnf716
September 29, 2017 at 4:11 amIt is really a nice and helpful piece of info. Im glad that you shared this helpful information with us. Please keep us up to date like this. Thanks for sharing. deeeecafedbk
ticha
September 22, 2017 at 9:10 pmMy quit day was September 20th so far its been hard of course. But, I am going to do it, I want to get into shape loose some weight. I want to be healthier. NO more cigarettes, or blood pressure and cholesterol pills.
stephanie
September 16, 2017 at 2:42 am18 of march 2017 want cold turkey still going strong still smoke free its been hard been times i wanted a smoke but havent given in and i live with two smokers witch is hard one of them is my partner hopeing he gives it up as i rearly kiss him now as i hate the smell it makes me feel sick im loveing all the changes like the taste of food and been able to smell things i took up smokeing at the age of 12 or 13 and quit just before my 41st bday best thing ever i had tryed meny of times over the yrs to give it up even the when smokes hit this price im giveing it up for those who want to quit what i did after meny attamps was i slowly cut back then i replaced smokeing with mints loveing been a reformed smoker
derek mcmahon
July 9, 2018 at 6:53 pmHi I am into my second day of smoke free and got up from bed as I could not sleep and I started to read all your stories and decided to tell my storey as I have been smoking for 73 years and am 79 now I play golf 4 times a week and my last game I pulled a rib muscle and it was hard to breath so the only way to breath easier was to stop smoking all together as I had started to cut down each day and was on 2or3 a evening as I did not smoke in the day time and I have found out not to tell people you have stopped as it puts more pressure on you so just say when they mention you not smoking you dont feel like one and it makes you feel a lot better so on my second day off the smokes I will try and play golf today as my breathing is getting better and the best os luck to all .
Vivica Cornelly
September 9, 2017 at 11:54 pmI am 54 years old and I was told I had COPD 7 years ago. I immediately quit smoking, but as the years pass by my condition got significantly worse, and I started having serious attacks. I used to be able to exercise, but it became so hard because I`m constantly out of breath. My pulmonologist started me on oral steroids to help control symptoms and minimize further damage but my symptoms never stopped getting worse. In January this year, my pulmonologist and I decided to go with natural treatment and was introduced to NewLife Herbal Clinic natural organic COPD Herbal formula, i had a total decline of symptoms with this COPD Herbal formula treatment. The infections, shortness of breath, fatigue, dry cough and other symptoms has subsided. Visit NewLife Herbal Clinic official website ww w. newlifeherbalclinic. com or email info@ newlifeherbalclinic. com.
I have had great improvement with my over all respiration with this product and i breath very much easier, i can never be thankful enough to nature
GC
June 18, 2018 at 7:10 amAlert!!
This is a con…NewLife Herbal Clinic is a South African rip off company preying on the vulnerable.
Eric
September 7, 2017 at 5:12 pmMy quit day May 29, 2017. Smoked almost a pack a day for nearly 20 years (I’m 36). I’m here to say that if I can do it, anyone can!
norman whitworth
September 5, 2017 at 11:50 ami quit from today
Lee Morant
August 27, 2017 at 12:59 amHi , its been 2 weeks cold turkey my 3rd attempt my first attempt was in 2009 did 6 month , second 2012 did 2 years and now my last I swear I hate cigarretes , can’t tolarate the smell , dislike the smoke , is not from me , it does not belong to me , is what I constanlty tell my subconsious , no auto correct so my apologies if a spelled something wrong but hooray am happy and this is my last attempt am done never again b4 my 40th bday
Tabitha Lea Klepper
August 21, 2017 at 9:08 pmI quit smoking a month ago using chantix it really does work if your actually ready and wanting to quit! If not it won’t work! Was on an inhaler what Really made me quit was I went hiking with my family and have to use my inhaler THREE times In about an hour!! I was disappointed in myself so I said I was done and have been since a week after starting chantix ! Now I went for a hike with my husband a week ago in the same park and didn’t use my inhaler once I am SO PROUD of myself! Seriously if I can do it ANYONE can!!
Juanita Juniper
August 18, 2017 at 4:14 pmi am quitting today after 30 years. I am tired of being tired, tired of not being able to be the energetic, exercising, happy-go-lucky person I know I am meant to be, simply because I am constantly worrying and anxious about my health now because of stupid cigarettes! I am doing this!! I’m nervous but I want to feel good again. I have a lot of living left to do.
Somnath
August 15, 2017 at 3:27 pmI had smoked for 30 years averaging 8-10 cigarettes a day. In between several times I tried to quit smoking cigarette for good but to no avail. The longest duration I did not smoke a cigarette was for 9 months. But today it is 84th day after my last cigarette I smoked. This time it is for good. I went ‘cold turkey’! This time right from the day one I quit I started vigorous physical exercise. I am also doing Yoga & Meditation every day. These I noticed have strengthened my body and mind quite substantially which in turn helped me to fight and defeat those TERRIBLE URGES TO SMOKE. I also have noticed I am feeling better and better every day. I have undergone tremendous mental and physical stress and strain more often than not in these 84 days but I have kept sailing on the predefined course with strong determination. And I shall keep on sailing ……. So I call to say, quitters of the world lets keep sailing together!
Juanita Juniper
August 18, 2017 at 4:10 pmthank you for that motivation, I quit today. yikes
Schele
December 21, 2017 at 4:28 pmMy quit date was 12/15/17 so I am 6 days in, so far it has been okay. I have had my struggles but talk myself out of smoking. I quit cold turkey and I am glad I did because I did not want any other vises that I had to quit. I am looking for some sort of mind exercises (as well as body) you mention yoga and meditation, is there an app I can look up for those things. I live in a cold state for the winter so I am unable to run, walk or ride my bike right now when I need to curve the cravings. Any thoughts on apps? I look forward to hearing back on suggestions.
Thank you and congratulations on 84 days (which is more now).
chuck givan
August 7, 2017 at 8:23 pmTo all who are fighting my dumb but was on a inhaler still smoked took a visit to. Emergency room a little very very cute doctor showed me a x-ray of right lung. Game changer I’m 54 years old smoked 30 years within 2 months I put on 10 pounds everything changed for better no longer on inhaler getting better everyday I still thing that little cute doctor was from God anyone fighting this can email me for support [email protected]
Juanita Juniper
August 18, 2017 at 4:17 pmthanks for the inspiration.
David Chetta Alvarez
August 7, 2017 at 1:25 pmToday its my 10 day after my last cigarette and i m going cold turkey!!!! Wish me luck my wife smoke and i will try for her to slow down or quit but me i m Done!!!!
chuck givan
August 7, 2017 at 8:12 pmHang in there I smoked for 30 years in 54 in two short months 3 hospital visits later I saw trays of a hole in my right lung I feel a thousands times better scared the scrap out of me you can do this
Dane Kjer
August 9, 2017 at 5:17 pmLuck!!
Nancy Ryan
July 31, 2017 at 6:14 pmThis has happened to me before….. i smoked a whole pack plus 2 on saturday, sunday morning when i woke up i could barely breath… just short breaths in…. and congestion in throat – so now it is almost 48 hours that i’ve not smoked – i have got to quit for good – it is ridiculous to feel this way!! i’ve smoked for about 10 years…. i’m tired of feeling like this, and smelling bad, etc. My boyfriend smokes so i may have to leave him !!!
WIll Copeland
August 1, 2017 at 5:55 pmHave you tried vaping ? I smoked for about 20 years and vaping was the only thing that worked. It still took some work but nothing terrible. For a couple of weeks I would just replace a cig with vaping until I was done.. it was a lot easier for my wife though..a lot of people say I just replace one habit for another. Which maybe so but my new habit is a lot better. I haven’t had a cigarette in 2 years and 3.5 for my wife.. if you just go to a local shop they can help u get started..I was around someone smoking a cigarette the other day and I never realized just how bad they smell.. I now understand why non-smokers complained so much.. after 2 years I have no regrets and I really do enjoy vaping . It also became a nice hobby for my wife and I .so maybe it could be for you and your boyfriend. Good luck and I hope u consider it!!!
Sharon
February 21, 2018 at 3:46 pmI started vaping January 25, 2018. Before that I used the disposable e-cigs on December 5th. I love that I do not smell like an ashtray. Sometimes I still smoke a real cig or two, however they give me a headache and I feel light-headed. I never smoked in my home or vehicle. So, in bad weather I had to smoke outdoors. I thoroughly enjoy vaping and my local vape shop walked me through the selection. It comes in no nicotine to higher. Also flavor’s. I use the lowest level nicotine possible and when I have a craving I take a puff or two. It’s just vapor. Quitting is easy, staying quit is the hard part. My son 44, has never smoked is so happy for me. I never thought it would be so easy and I can vape inside my house or car because there is never a nicotine odor. It’s never too late to change to a healthier way of life. I’m 72, and smoked since 14. He never criticized me…that only adds stress, so be easy with your significant other. Good luck and stress is also a killer. Be kind to yourself and If you have a couple, get going the next day…just don’t stop your determination to be healthy. ☺
Letaalwaysbless Grant
August 2, 2017 at 2:25 amI quit 5 days ago and my husband smoke. I make him go outside and no smoking in the car.
spliffsmommy
August 6, 2017 at 3:41 pmtry chantix..ive been on it since july 4th and have not smoked a single puff of anything..the first 2 days were hard,but im like 30 days ciggy free…i can actually fast walk a mile 3 times a day now without feeling like im gonna die…its also been said i dont snore anymore,lol..and ive lost almost 8lbs..because im using the anxiety/addicted bitchiness to walk/exercise..lol..try chantix!
Derl Sloan
July 31, 2018 at 9:34 amAmen. I’m using chantix too. It works be strong
George Chiang
July 19, 2017 at 1:40 amAfter smoking at least a pack a day for 10 years (about 73,000 cigarettes), I went to a hypno-therapist n quit for 8 years. My mom passed n I smoked through the grieving process (two years) and I have quit again (3 years). This time it’s for good. Also watch “what the health” the to fully understand what you’re putting in your body to fully understand what you’re putting in your body when you eat processed meats like sausage bacon pepperoni turkey roast beef… Good luck! If I can quit, anybody can quit.
sujay das
July 15, 2017 at 10:53 amI m trying to quit smoking. From last 48 hours i have not smoked a single puff as well.
But i am feeling drowsiness..
Why so?
mlsMichael Mary Sparey
July 16, 2017 at 4:41 pmI felt the same. Very sleepy. It was ok for me because I am retired. I just slept through it. That was 8 years ago. I would never go back to the weed. Feel so much better.
sujay das
July 27, 2017 at 8:39 pmThank you for sharing your experience
mlsMichael Mary Spare
Gwen
July 26, 2017 at 2:56 amCigarettes trigger endorphins in your brain, which are feel good factors. It tricks you brain into thinking you feel good, and the inhalation makes you feel better. It’s kind of like it’s tricking your brain. Once you take the feel good factor away from your brain, you start to feel tired, get jittery, anxious, possible headaches, and more withdrawl symptoms. I smoked for 21 years, but quit 9 years ago. Hardest thing I ever had to do, and trust me, it took me many tries, to finally do it. I started Chantix prescription, but I could only take it for two weeks. I started having nightmares every night, and it seemed like they were reality after I woke up, and I weaned off of it, but it kick started the quitting process, and with hard determination, I kept going. Wasn’t easy at all, but it’s doable. I still get the urge to have one when I an stressed, but I don’t act on it. I wish you all the luck in the world on quitting. You got this!! If I can do this, you can too. 🙂
sujay das
July 27, 2017 at 8:38 pmThank you gwen…
I m trying my level best..
From last 2 weeks..
By profession I am a software developer .whenever i face difficulties in my project my mind insists me to smoke.
Somehow i am protecting myself by eating somethng or drinking something..
Jonny Gagnon
July 13, 2017 at 12:51 amStoned for the first few days…. Oxygen overdose!
Fundi KaUkho NoMikii Singiswa
July 13, 2017 at 10:13 pmLol ???
Kevin
July 8, 2017 at 6:05 amwhy do I feel chest pain or angina after 6 weeks of quiting smoking? can you please help me with this 🙁
Jutkuppe
July 8, 2017 at 1:03 pmGo see doctor mate. Seriously.
Kevin
July 12, 2017 at 6:19 amI will for sure. thanks
Diva Denise
July 12, 2017 at 6:08 amI had it, too. I thought, ‘Great! Now that I stopped smoking, I’m having chest pains.’ It’ll pass, trust me.
Kevin
July 12, 2017 at 6:22 amthanks for the advice. I thought it was something really serious but I will see a Doctor just to make it sure… thank you
Diva Denise
July 12, 2017 at 12:25 pmKeep it up and stay strong. It’s only been 2 months for me and I quit cold turkey, no gum or patches. Regular gum I chew and lollipops have been doing it for me. Again, keep it up, and good luck to you!
Damaru Prasad Bhandari
July 29, 2017 at 9:10 amIn my life I have quit smoking 3 times. And on all the three instances I feel there was intervention from god. It is not easy without god factor. Now I will not touch at all.
chuck givan
August 7, 2017 at 8:26 pmPraise God
Fundi KaUkho NoMikii Singiswa
July 13, 2017 at 10:15 pmI have those chest pains as well. Its been almost 3 weeks without nicotine but the chest pains jeer
Gwen
July 26, 2017 at 2:59 amIt may be your body ridding itself of the toxins. If you are coughing at all it will hurt too. I think a trip to the doc may be in order, but it could just be the withdrawal process. Good luck, and keep us informed on what the doc says. 🙂
Garden B Boneses Tomlinson
June 12, 2017 at 9:21 pmHello everyone. First I’d like to congratulate all the super humans for over coming this terrible habit. Saying “I feel better!” is an understatement. The first and last thing I would do everyday? Nope. I don’t do that any more. The cough that I had to hide from people? Nope. I don’t do that any more. That pain in my head and neck, I would never admit? Nope. I don’t have that any more. The 100lbs brick on my chest? Nope, don’t have that any more. Yes I was on the edge for a while. It was a tough road. I’m not a slave to them any more…. And you can do it too. Good luck everyone. 🙂
elmer yumol
June 6, 2017 at 2:50 pmtoday is my 60 days of quitting smoking….but still annoying specially when it comes to my food so tasteless… but no regret i can do it…
Voce
June 6, 2017 at 10:52 amI suggest those that have stress disorders or panic attacks go to their primary doc and get a script for a sedative to take during withdrawal if going cold turkey. Also NLP helps reinforce the quitting and helps the body reject the thoughts or craving for the Nicotine. I know 3 people who died because of smoking and 2 people qho suffered strokes. It is NOT worth it.
Tara Owens
June 6, 2017 at 5:59 am32 years smoking. I tried the patch. Gum. Vaping. Homeopathic. None worked. Due to my bipolar disorder I can’t use Chantix.
I’m a firm believer that the desire to quit must be stronger than the desire to smoke. In other words, you must absolutely want it.
18 months smoke free. Cold turkey. I don’t want to go back. And every time I crave one I remind myself of the smell, the ashtray taste, and the grossness.
I can’t even be around them anymore. I cough for days if I am. And the smell gives me a headache. The smoke burns my nose and throat. My body rejects every facet of smoking.
So my trick and my advice is to want it more that anything else if you want to succeed. If you don’t, then you aren’t ready and you’ll set yourself up for failure.
Arshad Ali Khan
June 4, 2017 at 8:58 amHii guys it has been 1 month today since i quit but i m faceing many side efeect like weakness,fatigue and thrstiness why is it happening
MeggieBeth McBurney
May 22, 2017 at 10:05 pmToday is day 6 smoke free. Yes I am irritable as heck! But I can do this! Going for a walk now!!
Steve Roberts
May 19, 2017 at 7:02 pmI quit 30 years ago.
vikash anand
May 15, 2017 at 6:14 amThe birth of my daughter gave me a reason to quit smoking. Though I was trying for the last 17 years but unable to control the smoke. May be a sense of fear or love I cant explain but yes 20 days have passed. Hope will not become weak towards smoke.
Fred Joseph Corsino
May 12, 2017 at 2:23 pmI’m at 18 hours, my hands are shaking. I’ve smoked for 16yrs. I pinky promised my daughter I woukd never smoke again. I intend to keep it, but it’s so hard right now.
Michael
May 31, 2018 at 12:48 amDo it for yourself, and everything else will fall into place
Amir Najam
May 10, 2017 at 6:24 pmQuit day was 4/20/17… Chantix really helps, I would recommend but be wary of side effects
Tricia Olsen
May 9, 2017 at 2:05 pm4 years ago today, I QUIT!! Such a wonderful day!
Paul Fields
May 8, 2017 at 11:51 pm26 hrs for me
KevAlcaTroxX
April 17, 2018 at 7:01 am6 days for me 😀
Linda Tibbetts
May 6, 2017 at 7:14 amIm on Day 3. MAN!! This is the hardest thing I have ever had to quit!! Im having surgery (nothing major) at the end of next month and I know not smoking will improve healing time plus the surgery itself. While preparing for this I had a harsh flashback to when i was my sons age now- and my mother had a heart attack. Triple by-pass. She was a heavy smoker- like chain smoking 3 packs kind of heavy!! I was his age watching all this happen. I DONT want him to have to go through what I did. So its time. But UGH this sucks! But if I give in now I’ll have to start all over again. So onward and upward. Glad to see alot of you on here have gone through the same stuff and lived to tell the tale hahaha so that really helps!!
Lynn
May 4, 2017 at 9:44 pm16 months cigarette free! Life is good!
Mile Hi Dave
April 30, 2017 at 6:03 am5 days and not looking back! Smoked at least 40 years!
Debra Smith
April 27, 2017 at 6:12 pmI quit 13 days ago after smoking for 35 years. After destroying my body for all those years it’s time to for me to give back so I give my body a gift each and every day by not smoking
Donna Flood
April 26, 2017 at 11:21 pmQuit smoking 2 months ago had heart surgery I’m glad I quit smoking best thing I ever could have done for myself
Anita Jackson
April 22, 2017 at 5:04 amI’ve smoked for 28 years and used Chantix to kill the cravings . I was struggling with the habit but after watching Allen Carr’s easy way to stop smoking. I quit the same day. It helped me with my addiction. I’ve been smoke free 7 wks and don’t have a problem with people smoking in front of me or don’t even thinking of smoking ever again… if you wanting to really quit and have time to read Allen Carr’s book please do so it will be worth it …
BigtheGangsterCat
April 20, 2017 at 12:15 pmDay 4 of being smoke free for me and I’ve noticed that even though I didn’t sleep for a full 8 hours I woke feeling wide awake and recharged this hadn’t happened in years. I had been smoking for only six years but after the death of my uncle from a heart attack at age 59 I realized it was time for me to quit. Plus I hope this vigil of mine serves as an example for my father to quit and for my younger siblings to never smoke.
Rolando Moreno
April 19, 2017 at 7:39 amMy last cigarettes was on Saturday, I believe that when Jesus Christ resurrected he took my addiction to cigarettes with Him.
denzell mims
April 18, 2017 at 2:48 amQuit cold turkey a week ago after 23 years every second of the day feels like I just put a cigarette down smh my chest is still wide open ? but I told myself that I have to hate them as much as I loved them ??
George
April 13, 2017 at 5:02 amSo I was going crazy, been 3 weeks and smoking 3 to 6 a day (after 35 years I cut down to that from 2 packs). Been cold turkey – trying again 24 hours and I finally found the trigger. Managed to switch the cravings off immediately. I associated smoking with my Dad who was my hero and he always smelt like cherry tobacco as he had a pipe. I bought a non – nicotine vape a couple of years ago, subconscious probably selected it, for me. So when I quit again today the water and everything else wasn’t working me. Recharged the vape put the cherry fluid in it and it was like bang, that is where it came from. Wanting to be cool like my Dad and his smart pipe. I think the association I just happened to luck on a few minutes ago helps everyone on this page.
GL – I feel I can make it knowing how it started
EL Sovic Mitra
April 12, 2017 at 8:49 amI smoked for eight years. One day I woke up and decided not to smoke anymore. This is my third day and I don’t feel like smoking anymore. Best decision ever.
NimBold
April 10, 2017 at 1:23 pm5th hours is passing by. it’s hard af. damn what did i do to my body that after 5 hour not smoking i’m getting crazy. fuck.
Armaan Ahmad
April 6, 2017 at 12:52 pmIts been around a month now, but i feel adverse effects as mentioned above, I’m low on stamina, feel sleepy most of the time, can’t do good time exercise or running activities, can anyone suggest something ?
Ygoraphobic
April 11, 2017 at 12:25 amKeep at it, your lungs are still healing, it can take up to 3 months for you to really get that lung power back especially if you were a heavy smoker for a long time. But, you might want to mention the lethargy and lack of stamina to your doctor, though.
Linda Reifsnyder
April 6, 2017 at 1:07 amToday is my fourth day
Damien Noble
April 4, 2017 at 8:34 pmI am on Day 2 and its TOUGH im an on the step 2 patch and I
Wasif Choudhury
April 1, 2017 at 3:58 pmAfter many failed attempts, i finally quit smoking about 5 days back. I smoked for a little over 12 years but before i quit i was down to 7-8 cigarettes a day.
I have time for other things now, like work, study etc. without the exhaustion or tiredness i used to feel when i did smoke so that’s definetly a benifit.
But honestly, i feel i miss it, not the Nicotine (cause I use the gum just in case), but the activity of smoking. I never knew that smoking was NOT “just another habit:”, it was something i did which made me feel good, release stress etc. Just 5 min. with a cigarette every 1-2 hours later was a joy. So i guess what i’m trying to say is, i know its healthy i quit smoking and all, but was it worth it to give up something that used to literally make me feel better in an instant?
Ygoraphobic
April 11, 2017 at 12:15 amYes. It’s worth it. And that’s just you trying to rationalize the addiction. The feel good in an instant was a lie – you felt good at first because of the nicotine. But later, you only felt good because until you smoked your brain was making you feel bad because it wasn’t getting what it craved. I quit for 9 months back in 2004, and again for about 2 years back in 2010 and now I’m on my forever quit because I’m never letting that kind of logic through again. You’re rigth in that it’s NOT “just another habit” because the reality is it’s an addiction as bad as heroin.
Wasif Choudhury
April 11, 2017 at 2:12 pmIt’s been a few weeks now, still miss it, but I’m not suffereing from any withdrawal symptoms cause I use nicotine gum, stuff actually works!
But I do miss the cigarette, but your right, before every smoke I used to miss it so much, but afterwards, I use to regret after each one.. health issues, social issues, even used to give me a high so for the next 10min or so.. I was useless. Thanks for the reminder.. it’s support like these that makes us stronger as a unit!
Tosin Adeyelu
March 28, 2017 at 11:17 amHi,
I really like all these write up, i am trying to quit also. I have been smoking for 4 years now. Roughly 8 sticks a day and i really need to stop. Reading how must of you smoked for like 10 years plus amazes me. How did you cope with regards to work, social life etc ? My fiancee left me over smoking and i really feel bad.
I hope i can stop, good luck everyone.
Bobby Lotun
April 22, 2017 at 1:37 amTosin,
I watched a movie recently ” Fat, sick and dying”. One line in the movie was the Dr who said” Its like smoking, and its not question of if one is going to get sick, but rather when”. I realized that it’s like I am playing russian roulette. I have smoked for 18 years and today is Day 2 of quitting. When I get the craving I search benefit of quitting smoking online… It helps and makes me proud of the decision I took to stop.
George
November 15, 2017 at 6:55 amYea I do that too and that was what brought me here. Its not easy to quit at all.
Becky
March 26, 2017 at 6:22 amHubby and I quit three weeks ago after he had a health scare with his heart. Both smokers for 40 odd years with a few breaks in between. I’ve been having a lot of dizziness and flu-ish head feelings. Anyone else have this? I really miss smoking as I used it as a stress relief . But at the same time I feel incredibly positive about this step we’ve made and am determined to never start again ever!
Victoria Helvey
March 23, 2017 at 3:33 pmHas every one quit cold turkey? Did you use the patch or another replacement? Do you think that they helped? I am doing it by cutting my cigarettes down weekly and thinking about each one and if I really need it. I also joined a stop smoking help line we have in AZ. They are sending me patches but are not going to be here until Monday, the start of week 3 for me. I smoked 20-22 cigarettes a day. First week on Monday I went to 16. There were a few hard times but stuck to it. I am on week 2 and went to 14 a day. I am doing good and it is Thursday and no slips, in fact I only had 10 yesterday! Has anyone else done it this way? Were you successful at quitting completely? Thanks!
Ygoraphobic
April 11, 2017 at 12:20 amI tried it that way several times. It’s always good to ration them down before you quit. I quit twice cold turky for a moderately successful amount of time, but I always fell back on the crutch. I’m doing Champix now, I’m one week as a non smoker again. It takes more than patches or pills, though. You have to be diligent. When you say it’s time to stop, you have to stop and never look back no matter how hard it gets. You have to retrain your brain to crave new things that are healthy, and you have to remind yourself repeatedly why you quit. How you quit is less significant than quitting. Good luck, hope you made it to 0!
Malik Muhammad Ali
November 15, 2017 at 7:35 amI quit smoking today on dated 15-11-2017
Dianne Faulkner
January 2, 2018 at 2:34 pmIt’s 8months since I stopped with champix tried several times before but am really proud of myself this is the longest time for me but I am determined not to look back this time.
Zameel
March 20, 2017 at 7:41 pmI have been smoke free for 2 weeks!! I have been sick for almost a week now and no this is short term pain for long term gain. It makes me motivated by reading all of these comments that it isn’t easy going thru this challenge but coming out strong at the end. I am not the only one who has tried to quit as it is very doable.
Debra Walker
March 19, 2017 at 3:47 pmAfter more than 50 years as a smoker, I quit on New Years Eve 2016. I used a nicotine patch but quit that too after a few weeks. I tried quitting before (many times) and decided I would give it one last attempt. I was afraid of failing and for the first few days I was a basket case. I knew I had to change my lifestyle if I had any hope of success, so on January 12 I started a walking program. I walk at least 3 miles a day and it has done wonders for my self-esteem, not to mention my physical health. I still have cravings but they are becoming easier to dismiss. I am cautiously optimistic.
Donna Gettings Apperson
March 16, 2017 at 12:35 am8 days for me. Every day, including today, I read about quitting smoking. That’s how I found this site. I’ve had about 5 nicotine lozenges so far during the quit, have been drinking a lot of water and getting a lot of sleep. NOPE (not one puff ever) is my way of thinking. I’m having ups and downs, but I’m not smoking.
AngryNewYorker
March 14, 2017 at 8:16 pmAhhhh, Finally a Disqus thread that’s positive in nature and contains no politics!
xdreamartist
March 8, 2017 at 7:51 pmI’m so stoked! thanks for this article1
bharat
September 2, 2017 at 10:03 pma small question, i smoke for 3 years one cigarette per day can i get cancer ?
Lori Martin Dollar
March 7, 2017 at 7:10 pm12 weeks smoke free today!!!
stonrdude
March 5, 2017 at 10:19 pm20 years smoke free of all smoking products! Cold turkey and never went back. Worst and best things I ever did!
Jacki
March 1, 2017 at 6:25 pmIt will be 15 years for me in July. It took several tries at quitting before I succeeded.
1812
March 1, 2017 at 8:56 amAge 39, 1st heart attack, continued to smoke until age 43, second heart attack. Coded twice on the table. Have not thought about cigarettes since then. Smartest decision I’ve ever made.
chrisb1
February 28, 2017 at 5:55 pmAm now on day 15 of quitting after smoking a pack of 20 for 35 years.
Best thing I ever did.
jamie
February 27, 2017 at 12:59 pmI quit 3 years ago Jan. 27 exactly 2 months before my bday. Was so excited and proud of myself but I’m still craving and really snappy and irritable..
Ann
September 19, 2017 at 5:08 amI smoked for 30 years, off an on. I started as a child, 6 or 7 years old. I had grey skin and no energy in 1985, and finally quit. I also quit my job, changed my profession, started writing, almost had to file bankruptcy, accumulated a whole new set of associates (although I kept the good old ones) and was finally able to breathe again. But I am still paying the price, the emphysema and COPD caught up with me anyway. But I do not want a cigarette. My life totally changed, and my personality finally developed into someone that I like and respect. It was a long process.
Denise Meredith
June 8, 2018 at 2:37 amI’m truly happy for you, Ann. It’s impressive that you took such gigantic steps to change your life. It requires enormous strength of character to do something of that magnitude. I imagine that smoking was the least of your problems. I have also smoked since I was about 17 and I’m now 65.This is my third clean week and yes, sometimes I would love to have a cigarette, but it is surely a passing thing. I am so determined to never smoke again and your story has imbued me with even further determination. Many thanks for sharing.
Denise Gasparini
February 26, 2017 at 4:49 pmIm coming up on 2 months I actually quit on New Years day. So far so good .I am taking wellbutrin for the withdrawals and weight gain and its working great I have no desire and no side effects whats so ever .I just hope when I stop the medication I don’t want to smoke again. Im 52 and have smoked since i was 13. I never even tried to quit > I am just gonna loo
k at it like there is no going back I cannot smoke again ever and I don’t care.
Victoria Helvey
March 17, 2017 at 7:18 pmDenise, we are the same age and started at about the same age. I quit once for 5 years in my mid 20’s. Dumbest thing was to start again but I did. I want to quit. This week I went from 20 a day to 16 a day and I’ve done good. Each Monday I will cut 4 more. That is what worked last time. I’m going to my doctor in 2 weeks and I’ll ask about the med you’re on. Wish me luck! I will need it! Good job on your end!
Denise Gasparini
March 18, 2017 at 12:41 amI wish you all the luck in the world you got this. those cigarettes are disgusting keep telling yourself that cause they are.
Victoria Helvey
March 18, 2017 at 5:38 amThank you so much! I really hope I can stay strong! Keep up the great work on your quitting! Have a wonderful weekend!
Robert Petranek
March 22, 2017 at 3:39 pmIt’s all in your mind. You don’t NEED to smoke… it’s not like giving up FOOD or WATER. A couple irritable days are just that, then they are gone, and you are better- healthier, richer… just stay away from other smokers during the first few weeks.
Victoria Helvey
March 23, 2017 at 6:08 pmThanks! I hope I can do this! Some days it’s ok and other days it’s non stop craving! Today is one of the bad days! I’ve had hard candy, popcorn, water, lots of water and they won’t stop! I wish I could nap but I am wide awake! I don’t think I have been this awake in years! Last night I only slept for 2 hours and I can’t believe I am so wide awake! Did you get like this? I have not used any replacement so it makes no sense!
Robert Petranek
March 23, 2017 at 6:25 pmTHIS TOO SHALL PASS. You don’t want to be living walking around with an oxygen tank. This will be over in a little while. In a few more days you will look back and say- “Wow I didn’t NEED any of those smokes!!!” It is all in the mind.
Ann
September 19, 2017 at 5:03 amIt’s different for everyone. And if you fail, you haven’t failed if you try again. You might need to stop and get some sleep, and address the sleep issue in the meantime with your doctor, making it easier to try again. The withdrawals will be a little different every time this way, but you can make “no smoke” islands in your life, where you can practice no smoke behaviors to replace smoke behaviors. (Deep breathing at work to relieve stress can be helpful at other times, too, and become incorporated into your procedures for living, as you replace cigarettes.) And keep trying. Tell yourself, “I won’t have a cigarette this weekend,” and incorporate every replacement behavior. Just build the successes, and pretty soon, cigarettes won’t be so important, both mentally and physically.
Cheri Lynn Peterson
February 26, 2017 at 4:17 pmDay 3 for me! I’m going through a lot in my life at this time and was very surprised to find out that I didn’t want to smoke anymore. I’ve smoked for 30 years and just stopped. Why I don’t know but I really don’t want to question it.
Denise Gasparini
March 18, 2017 at 12:41 amGood job never question a good thing
Dave Carrigan
February 22, 2017 at 3:43 amToday is the end of Day 2.. I am 55 and a 40 year smoker. I am on stage 2 patch, and have cravings. But I am determined to do this. I have to. I want to work at a certain hospital and they test for nicotine. So I have motivation. I know it will be hard, I am lowering my nicotine, and breaking my triggers. And will go to the 7 mg patch in 3 weeks, just for a week. And step away forever. I had a chest xray done a month ago for another reason and was told I am showing signs of the early stages of emphysema. I know I am not 30 anymore, but I do get winded more easy. I am done with smokes.