Quitting smoking

[emtp2031]

OK I quit smoking starting last night at 2330 hrs....and so far its killing me!!!! The cravings arent too bad but the headaches I've had all day and the edginess are just loads of fun....its been 20 hrs with out a puff...so how many of you have quit smoking and what were some of the things you found to help calm down some of the withdrawals???I've been smoking for 27 yrs 2 packs a day...using the gum and the patch....

[Nate]

So you gave up Mary Jane or regular smokes? :p

[EMSsquirrel]

So you gave up Mary Jane or regular smokes? :p

I think we ought to get Nate to sign a waiver of liability. If emtp2031 kills him, FOOPS is not responsible. :D :D :D

- Greg

[smurfe]

I think we ought to get Nate to sign a waiver of liability. If emtp2031 kills him, FOOPS is not responsible. :D :D :D

- Greg
Guess I can post one in the FILES section :D :D :D :D

Smurfe :beer:

[IAMedic]

I smoked a pack a day for about 10 years. I quit cold turkey December in 2003, however, I think I was more of a "boredom" smoker. I can still have one occasionally if I am out having a beverage, but I don't need to have one.

[emtp2031]

Nate.....with the mood Im in right now you're lucky not to be in the area!!!! :lol: now I know what a junkie feels like when they need a fix....I smoked for a whole bunch of reasons stress,boredom and a few others...all I know is I feel like crap right now physically and mentally.....

[firechic]

CONGRATS emtp2031!!!!! :jig:
It's an extremely, very, very difficult thing to do!! I know this because I just quit on May 18th @ 1530. (Funny how we can remember the exact time)
If you can get through the first 4 days, I'm told it gets easier and easier. Actually, I miss the hell out of it, but it's not as bad as the first week. I had to call in one shift as "too b*tchy" to show up for work. I got through it though.
My withdrawals have been psychological, not really physical. I have found that changing some of the behaviors that trigger the 'want' to smoke has helped. I also carry an emergency lollipop and tic tacs to pop in my mouth if I have an especially bad craving. Other than that....it's just been waiting for time to pass.
I stopped cold turkey, couldn't do the gum, patch, Zyban.....
Best of luck to you. If you need a cheerleader in your corner to get by those difficult times - let me know.

[EMSsquirrel]

Nate.....with the mood Im in right now you're lucky not to be in the area!!!!

Yeah, Nate. Thanks. Thanks a whole bunch. I can already hear her screaming and ranting and wrecking the whole town like a herd of wild bison... and I think she's coming this way!!! :eek:

:D :D :D :D :D

- Greg

[emtp2031]

naw Greg youre lucky right now......Im at work until 6am...youre safe for now :lol:

[emtp2031]

thanks firechic...glad to hear you've made it this far...its been 26 hrs and I still feel like crawling into a hole..Im having alot of the physical and psych withdrawals..didnt realize they'd be this bad... :barf: :barf:

[Nate]

My partner tried to stop once...all she did was sleep...not smoking made her so sleepy.

[WELLAGEDEMT]

I quit smoking on the 25th of May 2005 and I can say that "I'M GOING FRIKIN' NUTS". I gave up alcohol a looooong time ago, I have so few vices left I may be a candidate for Sainthood. Not much left to do except chase wo----cars and bite the tires. Good Luck to all that take the plunge and make it. I don't have any advise for you because "I'M GOING FRIKIN' NUTS," through withdrawl myself.:lol:

[emtp2031]

Good for you Ray...check out the American Lung Assoc. website..there's some really helpfull info there and the forums...lots of support there...but I here you on the going nuts stuff...ya know they say misery loves company :lol: we can be miserable together thru this if you'd like on here....:lol: we could actually get away with some funky posts and blame it on the withdrawal symptoms!!!!Whatcha think???could we get away with it???:lol:

[celestialdaisy]

Good luck to you guys. Maybe one day soon I can join you. I'm cutting back again. I've quit about 5 times already. I'm a stress, boredom, and social smoker. Mainly a stress smoker though.

[smurfe]

We are gonna give it our best shot here to, I can't do cold turkey though, I tried that a hundred times with no success. I bought us each a smoking cessation kit. Hope they work.

I had tried cold turkey last Friday with no success. I made it smoke free for about 12 hours before I cracked. I have smoked for 29 years with the exception of 3 years where I was able to quit. (You might ask why I started again after 3 years smoke free? Well, travel to Illinois and meet my ex-wife and you will have your answer!) That was 10 years ago and I still enjoy the additional 75 pounds I gained when I quit. I had actually gained close to 100 pounds, but have been able to knock 25 pounds off, but can't seen to go lower. Hopefully if I can knock smoking, I can regain more energy to exercise.

Smurfe :beer:

[DaSharkie]

We had a bunch of classes on this for school. I think the average number of times for stopping smoking attempts is 7 or 8 times before success.

Many drug addicts have said that quitting heroin was easier than quitting cigarettes. Who am I to question that?

The best trick is, and this will sound all weird adn touchy - feely, group support and smoking cessation techniques. For some reason people find the comfort of being with others going through the same situation making it easier.

If you fall off the wagon, you need to try to get back on it. Don't forget to ween yourself down.....From a pack a day to a pack every couple of days to a pack a week. Do it over about a month or two. Your body will adjust fairly rapidly.

Worst part is you need to fight off the psychological and oral fixation that causes you to eat food instead of smoking cigarettes.

Best wishes to you all. We'll all be here for you.

[SteelMaiden]

The best trick is, and this will sound all weird adn touchy - feely, group support and smoking cessation techniques. For some reason people find the comfort of being with others going through the same situation making it easier.

yep, misery loves company. I've tried quitting 5 times, guess I'm almost to the magic number, huh?:beer: My problem is that if I quit smoking, I'll not have any bad habits left. Then, when my kids say something like, "you think you're perfect, don't you?" I'll have to answer "yes."

Good luck to all who are quitting, I'll be back in your ranks real soon.

[WELLAGEDEMT]

I think the real answer to quitting is the desire to quit. If you really want to quit it is possible. I am having a problem with the habits aquired while I was smoking. Things like. smoking as soon as I got up in the morning, after every meal, when things start to bother(stress) and the thought that it relaxed me before going to bed. The routine!!!!! I've had to find "other" things to do with my hands. No! not that!!!!!!:lol:

[celestialdaisy]

I think one of my problems is that when I would have quit cold turkey, no matter how
b!*chy I would have been, I had 2 Docs telling me not to. I was pregnant and found out late. They were worried about the baby going through withdrawl. Since then I've cut back, started up again, cut back, quit for about a week, and just repeated this cycle , ummm, i have no idea how many times.

[smurfe]

Well, I start again today. We will see how it goes. I am off till Saturday night. I smoke way more at work than home so if i can get through till Sat. Night smoke free, I think I will be on the path to success.

Smurfe :beer:

[firechic]

Good luck to you Smurfe!!! Stay strong man!!!
So far, I have survived the worst and it IS getting better. I no longer have continuous thoughts, although I have one every now and then.
I actually had a cup of decaf coffee (I quit caffeine the same time I quit smoking) and hung around some people actually smoking and survived!! The smoke smell turned my stomach and I didn't want one.
It does get better - Take it day by day or hour by hour!!
:beer:

[smurfe]

Good luck to you Smurfe!!! Stay strong man!!!
So far, I have survived the worst and it IS getting better. I no longer have continuous thoughts, although I have one every now and then.
I actually had a cup of decaf coffee (I quit caffeine the same time I quit smoking) and hung around some people actually smoking and survived!! The smoke smell turned my stomach and I didn't want one.
It does get better - Take it day by day or hour by hour!!
:beer:

I have heard many say that the smell makes them sick and helps them stay smoke free. That will not work for me as I have always thought the smell of smoke was gross. The odor in my wifes vehicle totally makes me ill as she will smoke with the windows rolled up tight, which drives me freaking nuts.

I am actually allergic to smoke. My eyes burn and my nasal passages swell shut when I smoke. I just can't believe I smoke and have for so many years. It is an addiction.

Smurfe :beer:

[emtbuff]

Good luck to all of you who are quitting smoking.

[emtp2031]

Good Luck Steve....I'm going on day 7 with out a smoke....the first 24 hrs were the worst as I stated before....now the smell of smoke turns my stomach too...Im getting my smell back..which I guess I had lost.....the cravings only seem to hit somewhat hard right after I eat.....Ray youre right its the patterns or routines that have to be recognized and changed so that the cravings etc wont be so bad....I too was one to light up as soon as I got up in the morning..now I pop in a 4mg piece of nicotine gum and that subsides that craving....remember to rewards yourselves guys too for every good week you have.....mine this weekend was going to DC for the weekend and doing tons of stuff while we were there...WNBA game,site seeing,being pampered LOL next week were on vacation and he's planning something special for that trip now too....but I have to wait for that surprise :hehe:

[smurfe]

Well, I am still hanging in there. I don't think I am too bad of a Bastard, guess you should all ask the wife though, Even though she is a cop-out and hasn't tried to quit yet. If she don't try, this is gonna be even tougher. Hope she is reading this and the guilt trip encourages her to stop.

I have gotten over the thoughts of Genocide. I am at the serial killer level now after the mass murderer feelings calmed.

Smurfe :beer:

[smurfe]

Well, tomorrow it will be 7 days smoke free. I haven't noticed any symptoms easing up yet. I am miserable! but I am going to make it! Just need to vent.

How are all the other "quitters" doing?

Smurfe :beer:

[RMurphy]

Well, I am still hanging in there. I don't think I am too bad of a Bastard, guess you should all ask the wife though
Smurfe :beer:

Well, so far he won't sit in the same room with me, one of us has to leave while I smoke and he has yelled at the dog numerous times tonight.... I can say this, he's keeping busy. He cleaned out his car Friday. It looked like a trash truck.... and the kids caught a little hell this weekend, too. oh nooo, he's not edgy at all. He's the one who usually tells me, "oh honey, they are just being kids"..... hahaha

[emmit233]

I have lost track of how many times I have quit....somtimes for 6 or more weeks at a time. The last time I quit for about 4 weeks during medic class. Then cardiology came around and wellllllllllll :( Boy was my partner mad at me when she found out I started up again.

I have found that I am a boredom smoker mainly. I have found that after a run and I am done cleaning my truck and waiting on my partner is when I struggle.

I had intentions of quitting and starting my running routine again. Ya know one excuse after another. LOL I have had several people tell me to wait until after I am done with ride time and N. Registry. Any thoughts on this? I wont be done till late August and I really hate the idea of not running all summer.

[IAMedic]

Well, I must admit that I have been a closet chewer for many years. This thread has made me quit cold turkey. I quit on Sunday. It's hard to sit at home and work on homework or watch TV without having something to stuff in my lip. To fight this urge, when I get a craving I take a drink of water.

[SteelMaiden]

To fight this urge, when I get a craving I take a drink of water.

I'd drown!

[emtp2031]

Ros...my friend and you are going thru the same thing LOL actually it only lasted about 2 days with me...he actually told me that if I didnt try to recognize when I was going to explode then he wouldnt see me until I was over that phase LOL and he meant it too !!!!!
Steve...Im actually doing pretty good..surprised myself actually....today is day 9....and as my weekly reward......I have no clue ...
Im doing the patch and the gum..are you trying any of these??? Biggest time when I want to smoke is right after I wake up and after eating....Keep up the good work...it's truely worth the aggrevation you go thru the first few weeks....I just keep reminding myself that I get really cool rewards each week to look forward to !!!!! : :) :

[RMurphy]

Steve is using some Nicozan stop smoking kit. He has been less edgy the last day or so. I will do the cold turkey thing when my last couple of packs are gone. He bought me a kit, but I don't do vitamin pills. I don't do pills of any kind. It's a big deal for me to take headache meds when I need them!

[DaSharkie]

Wellbutrin XL is supposed to work well for helping to stop smoking as well. Need an Rx for it though.

Whatever gets you stop smoking works though. Remember, just like alcohol, it is so easy to slide down the slippery slope into usage, even after years of sobriety.

One little toke on a friend's cigarette leads to a pack a day very easily.

Still thinking about you folks.

[joemt]

I went cold turkey... but I DID chew an awful lot of gum (non-nicotine). I still crave cigarettes, and I have been known to stand around with friends who were smoking, and second hand smoke, but I've now been smoke free for about 12 years.... My parents still smoke like Chimneys.

[firechic]

Still going strong here - 3 WEEKS AND 5 HOURS QUIT!!!! :jig:
I am so happy - I have little thoughts here and there though......for instance, the other day buying some tic tacs at the gas station where I used to buy my "supplies" .....looked at them and thought - man, if I could have just one puff......ARGH!!
I found out the other day that my brother and his wife just quit cold turkey also. He said that everytime he gets a craving he puts the money he was going to pay for a pack of smokes in a jar. He's got a ton of money that would have gone to support the habit.

Anyway - keep going strong and best wishes everyone!! :beer:

[WELLAGEDEMT]

I quit on May 25 and everything is screwed up. I still catch myself bringing my hand up to my mouth and inhaling, but there's nothing to inhale except fresh air, now that's a trip!!! I made a comment one morning(before I quit) when my wife asked me where I was going,, I told her I was going out to the garage and kill some brain cells(Smoke), She replied that it was already too late. I didn't get the connection. I use "the patch" to help on days when the urge gets a little strong and stress gets a little heavy. I can't keep it lit though and it really stinks up the garage!! :lol:

[emtp2031]

Well today is day number 12 without a smoke.....the craving havent been bad at all until today....no I havent given in and bought smokes..I refuse to let this event set me back in that regards....since 4 am this morning it's been a very stressful day and will continue to be for the next week or so...my mom passed away this morning.and now that trip that was planned to Cancun has been cancelled : :( :...boy do I really want a smoke,but I wont..I think I'll just go sit in the jacuzzi until I turn into a prune......

[WELLAGEDEMT]

I am so sad for your loss. Keep the memories, she'll be with you forever!!!

[emtp2031]

thanks Ray....we knew it was coming but thought we had at least maybe a month...she had been diagnosed last month with multiple myeloma....next week is all the fun...2 funeral services in 2 different states...the one time I DONT like being the only child....: :( :

[EMSsquirrel]

thanks Ray....we knew it was coming but thought we had at least maybe a month...she had been diagnosed last month with multiple myeloma....next week is all the fun...2 funeral services in 2 different states...the one time I DONT like being the only child....: :( :

If there's anything I can do for you, you know where to reach me.

- Greg

[smurfe]

If there's anything I can do for you, you know where to reach me.

- Greg

Same here, if you need anything, let us know.

Steve

[emtp2031]

Thanks all for your support........We knew it would be coming just never thought this soon...was hoping for her to have one more summer with the grandkids

[emtp2031]

oh yes...back to the topic of the thread......tomorrow is 2 weeks with out a smoke....have been chewing ALOT of gum the past 2 days..but it's keeping the cravings down pretty good......Smurfe how're you diong so far???Ray you still putting that phantom smoke to your mouth??:lol: I've caught myself doing the same thing a few times...so youre not alone in that!

[smurfe]

oh yes...back to the topic of the thread......tomorrow is 2 weeks with out a smoke....have been chewing ALOT of gum the past 2 days..but it's keeping the cravings down pretty good......Smurfe how're you diong so far???Ray you still putting that phantom smoke to your mouth??:lol: I've caught myself doing the same thing a few times...so youre not alone in that!

I am still a Bastard, but still smoke free.

Smurfe :beer:

[DaSharkie]

I am still a Bastard, but still smoke free.

Smurfe :beer:

Don't listen to those nasty names the wife has been calling you. :hehe:

You'll be calling her names too when she quits.

Still thinking of you all. Keep up the good work. It is just a monkey on your back, and you need to kick his ***.

Just to motivate you all, remember that you are not doing this just for yourself. Many of you have kids, or grandkids and they need clean air to breathe when they are with you.

Stay motivated for yourselves and for them.

[WELLAGEDEMT]

Just a monkey on my back? more like a 500 lb gorilla. I didn't smoke in our house or in my wife's car, so that part is easy, but my car, now that thing still smells like a tobacco factory. If I need a lift, I just have to go out for a ride in my car and inhale without lighting up. I have found that food tastes a lot better and that I'm not stuffed up or coughing near as much as I used to be. My bout with cancer also motivates me to stay away from smoking.

[firechic]

Wow! I didn't even realize it until I read this post - I haven't even had a thought about smoking for a few days now. :jig:
Well....crap! Now I just thought about it! :bang:

[smurfe]

Well, yesterday, I was presented with another hurdle in my no smoking quest and passed it. I still have one hurdle to meet but don't know when that will happen.

The first hurdle I have been tackling is boredom at work. I constantly smoked at work when I wasn't on a call and could easily smoke 2 packs in a 12 hour shift even when we are busy, but normally 1 pack when we are busy.

That has been the toughest thus far, the slack time at work. Thank god I have been at a busy station and will be for the next 2 months till I rotate to the country.

Now the hurdle I met yesterday. Drinking beer or other enjoyable concoctions. I chain smoke when I drink. Gotta have a beer in one hand and a smoke in the other. We had a pool party yesterday with copious amounts of adult beverages and it was tough.

The last time I tried to quit, it was a night out partying that broke me down. I had went a couple months that time. We went out and I didn't survive. The I will just burn a few tonight didn't make it. I didn't go three yesterday although I really thought about it.

The next hurdle is driving long distances. We haven't planed any trips anywhere so this hasn't been presented yet. If you ever have the chance to take a road trip with my wife as a passenger, not only would numerous smokes be in order, but a handful of Valiums as well. Road trips are very tense in our household due to her freaking out every 12.3 seconds about the other drivers on the road. Thats all I am gonna say on that one.

So, these are my Achilles Heel's or my Kryptonite if you must. I will keep trudging on. Just my vent of what it is been like for me.

Smurfe :beer:

[RMurphy]

Steven, I am extremely proud of you. You're hangin' tough and I have not lived up to my end of the bargain. I will in another day or two. Promise. And quite frankly, after that large pitcher of Margaritas got passed around, you did very well not smoking. I didn't think you would be able to do it either. Everyone drank and smoked yesterday but you :bow:

[emmit233]

6 days for me now. My nails are a little shorter and I have gained a little weight but I am determined to kick this monkeys arse! :D

[DaSharkie]

Good for all of you.

In all actuality Smurfe, I thought one of your hurdles was going to be wanting to smoke after sex. I know it is a cliche, but still.......

[smurfe]

Good for all of you.

In all actuality Smurfe, I thought one of your hurdles was going to be wanting to smoke after sex. I know it is a cliche, but still.......

LOL, nope, never did, hell, usually too out of breath from the smoking

Smurfe

[RMurphy]

Are you sure it's from the smoking?

[emmit233]

Are you sure it's from the smoking?

:beer: You go girl! He knows which answer he "should" choose! :hehe:

Yesterday was day 8 for me and the first day completely without any nicotine. I went swimming and fishing so I could not wear my patch. I have the gum but did not want any of it. I expected to have trouble since I usually have a beer or 3 while fishing. :D

I am getting ready to head off to one of our slow stations today. I will probably put the patch back on because I smoke when I am bored.

[DaSharkie]

Are you sure it's from the smoking?

Smurfe, as memeber of the marriead man club, let me remind you that you should be VERY careful in how you anser this question, or else you shall spend a night or two in the dog house.

[WELLAGEDEMT]

We're waiting!!! Smurfe, All enquiring minds want to know. Upcoming poll, Smurfe answers correctly or spends the night on the couch? ie: doghouse!

[smurfe]

Ain't touching that one

Smurfe :beer:

[DaSharkie]

Ain't touching that one

Smurfe :beer:

You WUSS!!!!!!!!! Come on, answer the question.

Your wife asked you a question. You know as well as the rest of us married guys, if you don't answer the question you will still be in the doghouse.

[RMurphy]

He hasn't smoked in 2 weeks. I think in about 2 more weeks, his lungs should be on the mend and I will know. I will just have to find out for myself.

[DaSharkie]

He hasn't smoked in 2 weeks. I think in about 2 more weeks, his lungs should be on the mend and I will know. I will just have to find out for myself.

I don't know if I should ask for a report from you or not.

I will leave it to wellaged to request it.

I am still kind of shocked that he won't answer it himself. I think he is just afraid of the couch punishment.

[RMurphy]

Ya know, I'm little surprised myself. Steve is never ever at a loss for words. He shares all his thoughts and opinions 24/7. He is very predictable in that regard.

... he's not as grumpy today as he has been. Maybe the edge from not smoking has finally lightened up.

[Rentapig]

I know i dont talk much

but from reading all this i think no i know. I well go quit cold turkey this friday. When i get payed from work the only time i did not smoke was when i was in boot camp U.S.M.C.

[emtp2031]

Well today is number 20...the day of the funeral my cravings werent that bad and I only chewed about 5 pieces all day,guess I had too much other stuff on my mind to think about smoking :lol:..yesterday I only chewed 2 pieces of gum all day which surprised me..still using the patch...as for sex life stamina there Ros LOL I will say it improves!!!! :hehe: and thats all Im going to say on that note :lol:.....I can still smell it somewhat in my truck but I hopefully will be getting my new Jeep in the near future so then all I'll smell is the new car smell!!!

[emtp2031]

Just wanted to say thanks to all for the condolences.It's been a bit hard on my kids,seeing as my mom was basically obsessed with them LOL but theyre starting to accept she's in a better place.Me well.......I still havent smoked it's now day 24.Hope everyone else is keeping up their good work in that arena!!!

[smurfe]

I'm still hanging in there. Still a bastard, still crave, but not cheated any :jig:

Smurfe :beer:

[IAMedic]

I haven't had a dip since I quit, however, I did get Nicorette gum to help with the urges. I chew only about 2-3 pieces a day for about a 1/2 hour each. I was skeptical, but it does work. I only use the 2 mg pieces.

[DaSharkie]

Hey all, just wondering how you folks are doing with fighting the demons? I truly hope you are all well.

Smurfe - I am still waiting for an answer to the question, as are we all. :p ;)

[RMurphy]

He had no shortness of breath last night ;)

[DaSharkie]

He had no shortness of breath last night ;)

LOL. Heh, heh, heh.

You STUD you. :beer: :beer: :beer: :beer: :flame: :flame: :flame:

[SteelMaiden]

Gee Roz, thanks for sharing, (I think????) LOL!

[smurfe]

Hey all, just wondering how you folks are doing with fighting the demons? I truly hope you are all well.

Smurfe - I am still waiting for an answer to the question, as are we all. :p ;)

LOL, I told ya, I ain't getting in the middle of this one. i am gonna plead the 5th LOL

Smurfe :beer:

[DaSharkie]

LOL, I told ya, I ain't getting in the middle of this one. i am gonna plead the 5th LOL

Smurfe :beer:

Fine, be that way. Apparently your wife has no shame and will give us enough details on your progress to get the truth. :p

[WELLAGEDEMT]

I just have a feeling that we aren't going to get smurfe to answer. And I'm not so sure that Roz is going to be keeping us informed either. Maybe it's best that we just have our suspicions and our own ideas, we can picture all sorts of images and responses to the question, "Does he or doesn't he?":lol:

Take the 5th, what a wuss!!!!!!:lol:

[smurfe]

I just have a feeling that we aren't going to get smurfe to answer. And I'm not so sure that Roz is going to be keeping us informed either. Maybe it's best that we just have our suspicions and our own ideas, we can picture all sorts of images and responses to the question, "Does he or doesn't he?":lol:

Take the 5th, what a wuss!!!!!!:lol:Just trying to keep a "family" atmosphere here! :wow: :rotflmao: :rotflmao: :rotflmao: :rotflmao: :rotflmao: :rotflmao: :rotflmao: :rotflmao: :rotflmao: :rotflmao: :rotflmao:

Smurfe :beer:

[DaSharkie]

Just trying to keep a "family" atmosphere here! :wow: :rotflmao: :rotflmao: :rotflmao: :rotflmao: :rotflmao: :rotflmao: :rotflmao: :rotflmao: :rotflmao: :rotflmao: :rotflmao:

Smurfe :beer:


We are a family brother. :p :p :p

[RMurphy]

We are a family brother. :p :p :p


He's gotcha there, Steve :lol:

[Rentapig]

well i tried but my wife and me got in to it and then work's going down hill i like over time but when I'm getting like 20 hrs=40hours over time this is too much for one person to handle like me going in at 1100 and not going home till 0100 then come back and doing it again i should say my day should be 1100-2130 and be do about 10+runs a day we have over 50 trucks in louisville,ky sorry to rant but i'm going to try to stop smoking this coming Friday

[smurfe]

Fine, be that way. Apparently your wife has no shame and will give us enough details on your progress to get the truth. :p Well lets just say my "stamina" has vastly increased :dazzle:

Smurfe :beer:

[EMSsquirrel]

Well lets just say my "stamina" has vastly increased :dazzle:

Smurfe :beer:

Well, 1 minute to 2 minutes IS a 100% increase... :D

- Greg

[smurfe]

Well, 1 minute to 2 minutes IS a 100% increase... :D

- Greg
Damn Straight!

[WELLAGEDEMT]

In the words of Toby Keith. "I'm not as good as I once was, but I'm as good "once" as I ever was!!" 1 minute, 2 minutes, who really keeps track anyway, as long as the job gets done, Right???:rotflmao:

[celestialdaisy]

WOW...Talk about off topic....I'll try to set us back on...I still haven't quit. I'm too busy trying to lose weight. I guess the weight issue was my priority. Maybe...oh never mind...I was trying to avoid that topic...LOL

[WELLAGEDEMT]

No! we weren't off topic!!! Smurfe quit smoking and we were questioning his newfound stamina. Does smoking really affect your stamina as much as is touted by all the "smoke out crazies" ???? Not off topic, it's all in the ball park figures, RIGHT? :lol:

[smurfe]

No! we weren't off topic!!! Smurfe quit smoking and we were questioning his newfound stamina. Does smoking really affect your stamina as much as is touted by all the "smoke out crazies" ???? Not off topic, it's all in the ball park figures, RIGHT? :lol:

Yes, it is true, i get much less winded on "strenuous" "calls" I have found I have been able to competently perform my job "duties" for much longer periods of time without too many associated "break" periods.

Smurfe :beer:

[DaSharkie]

Yes, it is true, i get much less winded on "strenuous" "calls" I have found I have been able to competently perform my job "duties" for much longer periods of time without too many associated "break" periods.

Smurfe :beer:

That's my boy!!!!

Not off topic at all. Strictly in pursuit of expanded knowledge.

I must thank Steve for "sacrifices" that his body has made in the furtherance of science. RMurphy should also be thanked for her "sacrifices" as well.

Both should be encouraged for future "sacrifices" in order to offer additional evidence for this important "body" of research. :p :p :p :p

[EMSsquirrel]

Yes, it is true, i get much less winded on "strenuous" "calls" I have found I have been able to competently perform my job "duties" for much longer periods of time without too many associated "break" periods.

Smurfe :beer:

But the question remains, what do your "run stats" look like, Smurfe? How many "calls" do you actually get? And you know that technology has improved since people started doing this "job." Using newfangled "equipment" to help you on your "calls" may invalidate your statistics. Remember, for any experiment to be valid, you must control for variables. And repetition is key!

Oh, by the way, I really hope you don't lose any "calls" to "mutual aid..." :wow: :D

- Greg

[celestialdaisy]

I know what the connection was, but whatever happened to the "family atmosphere"? Oh well, this is more interesting anyways....LOL Maybe I can pass some info on and get someone else to quit too.... ;)

[EMSsquirrel]

I know what the connection was, but whatever happened to the "family atmosphere"? Oh well, this is more interesting anyways....LOL Maybe I can pass some info on and get someone else to quit too.... ;)

If you've got a little one who can read into our "code," then you've got a heck of a lot more to worry about than quitting smoking! :wow:

- Greg

[celestialdaisy]

My kids can't figure it out, but I do believe Smurfe was trying to edge his way out with that line.

[WELLAGEDEMT]

That's the real reason for continuing our thorough assessment tactics. You have to ascertain the root of the problem before you can treat the patient correctly. All the variables enter into the picture during the assessment and we work from there. :rotflmao: We are getting the same results as we do from a stubborn patient, but we do get results!!!!!!! And what "code" are you referring to? :lol:

[RMurphy]

That's my boy!!!!

Not off topic at all. Strictly in pursuit of expanded knowledge.

I must thank Steve for "sacrifices" that his body has made in the furtherance of science. RMurphy should also be thanked for her "sacrifices" as well.

Both should be encouraged for future "sacrifices" in order to offer additional evidence for this important "body" of research. :p :p :p :p

Hey, I'm just doing what I can for the cause and to give my husband support in his profession. ;)

I find it quite amusing...the size of this thread, and the number of pages on comments made about my husband's stamina AND I appreciate the support his internet colleagues have given him regarding his endeavor to quit smoking. Ya'll are great! :beer:

[hageremtp]

http://bestsmileys.com/smoking/1.gif

[smurfe]

http://bestsmileys.com/smoking/1.gif
That is totally excellent :D

Smurfe :beer:

[celestialdaisy]

I find it quite amusing...the size of this thread, and the number of pages on comments made about my husband's stamina AND I appreciate the support his internet colleagues have given him regarding his endeavor to quit smoking. Ya'll are great! :beer:

Your welcome Ros. :D We'll do anything we can to help. :D

[smurfe]

Well, just thought would see how the other "quiters" were doing. So far, I am still smoke free. How's it going for you?

Smurfe :beer:

[celestialdaisy]

Still haven't even attempted, although I did go for 4 days with oly 3 cigarettes that I bummed off of a neighbor due to lack of funds.... I think I'll be getting around to it pretty quickly now though. My spenable income has severly dropped since I left my kids dad and moved to a place where the rent is $200 higher. I think quitting is going to end up being forced on me. :soapbox: Oh well, I've been saying for how long now that I'm gonna do it. :bang:

[firechic]

I'm still going strong; however, last night I had the most realistic dream of dragging on a nice long cigarette and loving every minute of it.......
this isn't considered cheating is it??? :cool: God, it was so good. ugh.

[emtp2031]

Naw firechic...thats not considered cheating.....good for you still going strong...as for me Im on week number 9 without a smoke....but I sure have wanted one when certain things have happened recently...but I didnt give !!!!! Good luck to the rest of you !!!!

[firechic]

Good for you emtp2031!! Keep up the good work!!!
I'm expecting my baby in late December, so the real test for me will be after that....when I really CAN have a cigarette. It's easy for me now because it's not an option - just can't give a baby a cigarette.

[smurfe]

Well, even after my 12th straight day at work due to the hurricane, I am still smoke free, came close to breaking but so far not snapped yet.

Smurfe :beer:

[DaSharkie]

You take it back up I guarantee you I will get down there and give you a real haircut!

Keep it up Steve.

[emtp2031]

Thats great Steve !!!!! If ever there was stress......Im still smoke free myself going on I cant recall anymore how many weeks it is...something like 15...since May 28th....but yes I still have cravings everyday at times

[MikeyTN]

I am, and have always been, tobacco free.

My question is why does anyone ever take up a habit like that? Oral tobacco turns your teeth brown and ciggarette smoke smells terrible, makes your clothes smell like it and turns your teeth yellow. I have never found anything positive about either one and yet people take up the habits every day.

Smokers and/or chewers please explain.

[emtp2031]

well lets see.....I had started when I was 13....peer pressure....then when I got older it was you have to have one at certain times..i.e. after a meal,boredom,something to do with your hands etc etc.....there would always be a reason to light up.....the physical addiction is very strong...it's just as bad as being a junky needing a fix.....and withdrawal is just as bad..well it was for me the first 48hrs, as it would be for a drug addict trying to kick the habit....I had been smoking for 27 yrs before I quit....

[smurfe]

I like Beth started smoking many many years ago (in the mid 70's) It wasn't looked upon as bad like today. Once your hooked, you don't care about all the bad stuff you mentioned.

I smoked 2-3 packs a day and always thought it was the most vile smell there was but I kept sucking them down. It is an addiction no different than a heroin junkie or an alcoholic. There is no reason today that anyone should start smoking with all the negative campaigns as well as the facts available to one about its killer effects.

Smurfe :beer:

[DaSharkie]

Actually Smurfe, it is an addiction worse than alcohol or heroin (except that alcohol withdrawals can kill you.)

Talk to a heroin junkie who kicked the habit and kicked cigarettes. There is a good chance that they'll tell you that kicking the nicotine was harder than kicking the needle.

[emmit233]

Now that I am done with registry and am actually working as a medic now I have quit again...for the 100th time :confused: I find that I smoked mainly out of boredom and of course stress. I just chew the heck out of gum now and jump rope or shoot some b-ball (if I am the right station). I always hated the taste of cigarettes in the cold weather...weird I know but now I won't have to worry about it. :smiley_ab

[DaSharkie]

It usually takes several times of trying to quit to actually succeed.

If Smurfe can do it (and not get all hot and out of breath during nookie) then surely you can too.

[emmit233]

If Smurfe can do it (and not get all hot and out of breath during nookie) then surely you can too.

nookie whats that? :bang: oh yeah that fun exercise I haven't gotten in a while. :( Guess I'll have to be like Nate and do some arm exercises :o OOooops wrong thread again! LOL

[smurfe]

Well, thought I would revive this thread and report that I am still smoke free. It has gotten a lot better but there are still times that I reach for the pack.

Hows everyone else doing?

Smurfe:beer:

[DaSharkie]

I was going to revive this thread on Thanksgiving figuring that families would stress folks right out of their gords.

Nice to see you still going. I hope that your "endurance" has maintained and maybe even improved. :hehe: :hehe: :hehe: :hehe:

[EMSsquirrel]

I'm still smoke free. Never started, so I never have to stop. I've been exposed to enough second-hand smoke, though, that I've got terrible allergies and I wheeze like an asthmatic. Especially you all with kids, quit, and stay quit! My health always took the back burner to my parents' cigs... sad, really.

- Greg

[smurfe]

Greg, that was one of the biggest reasons why I quit. The Kids. I am over 40, fat and I smoked. I was a walking poster child for a massive MI.

I have a 4 year old I would like to see leave home. Since that will take a few years, I would really like to be here

Smurfe:beer:

[WELLAGEDEMT]

Those 4 yr olds can get to be a real handfull. I can offer some fatherly advise. You will NEVER really want them to leave home. When you reach the longevity limit, you will be wondering when they are going to come back home, just to visit or maybe even stay for a while just to get it together again. It is great to be able to be in good enough health to enjoy that part of "family"... Fantastic job on the QUIT SMOKING side!!!!:lol:

[emtp2031]

Glad to see youre still smoke free there Steve !!! I am too..but I've wanted to light one up once in awhile..but that thought really doesnt last very long...Im now on my 6th month smoke free....

[smurfe]

I hear you Beth, I still reach for them at times but it is a lot easier. The smell now nauseates me. The smell of someone smoking don't bother me, but the smell of stale smoke in clothes and upholstery and the such just turns my stomach. :v:

I to am in my six months, I think I stopped a few days after you. They always say no one likes a quitter but I am glad I was able to. I just hope i can keep with it.

Smurfe:beer:

[firechic]

Congratulations all on remaining smoke free!!
I am still the same - smoke free since May, although I have thought about it at times - I never could do it.
My real test will be soon. The baby is due at the end of the month and I need to stay strong. I'm afraid that if I get to drink a beer in the near future, the other hand will have a smoking stick.
I'll keep strong though....one day at a time, right??

Keep up the good work!!
:jig:

[emtp2031]

Well seeing as it's been awhile since anyone posted on this I figured I'd do my update.....it will be 8 months tomorrow tht Ive been smoke free....not saying there isnt times I want a smoke but the cravings are few and far between now adays....Steve how are you doing on it and anyone else that quit??????? To those of you who have keep up the good work....and to those that may have slipped...dont worry slipping isnt a permanent thing just a temporary thing and yuo CAN do it !!!! If I can anybody can :lol:

[smurfe]

So far so good for me, STILL smoke free. I hardly think about it until the wife lights up :v: She is still a loser and won't quit, She tried last week and made it like 4-5 hours before she broke. Oh well. I have made it like 7 months now.

I will say my diet hasn't been as successful, I have fell off the wagon into the gravy vat a few times :wow:

Smurfe :beer:

[epmagoolee]

Ive been trying to quit, but find it very hard.. My husband smokes.. anyone have any suggestions? Ive been a closet smoker for years My mother doesnt even know I smoke.. Amazing I know but she doesnt.. I want to quit I guess thats the first step.. Congrats!! to those of you that have remained smoke free for so long.

[emtp2031]

hmmmm....I know willpower would be a big part of that.....Smurfe..Im deferring this to you..seeing as you have a smoker in the house you would be the man to have the pointers....Ros..I know you'll suceed when youre ready: :) :

[smurfe]

Ive been trying to quit, but find it very hard.. My husband smokes.. anyone have any suggestions? Ive been a closet smoker for years My mother doesnt even know I smoke.. Amazing I know but she doesnt.. I want to quit I guess thats the first step.. Congrats!! to those of you that have remained smoke free for so long.


First off, if your Mom is a non-smoker, she knows you smoke. Anyone that is a non-smoker knows you smoke unless you smoke buck-a$$ naked outside the shower and jump in as soon as you put it out. I can't believe I smelled that bad all these years. The actual smell of someone smoking does not bother me but the smell of smoke on clothes and in the wifes vehicle turns my stomach to the verge of puking.

Well, its really tough to quit with another smoker in the house. I have to say I am probably the worse reformed smoker to live with. I constantly gripe and the wife hoping I can Guilt her into quitting. I make her smoke outside since we moved and I pretty well barely ever ride in the car with her.

I used a smoking cessation kit (http://www.avprin.com/) when I quit. I actually bought one for each of us but she refused to try it. One excuse after the other why not to quit so I have gave up. I had great success with this kit. Yes, it was very tough for a couple weeks but then all of a sudden, it was a relief and the urges went away. I still have a craving every now and then but they are few and far between.

This is what it boils down to. You have to really want to quit. I mean really really want to. If you don't have complete confidence that you want to, it will not happen. You need support form others, hence this thread here, to release on when you feel like you could become a Mass Murderer real easy. It take commitment and dedication. These things really aren't that hard.

Nicotine is a drug and you just have to flush it out of your system and replace the "activity portion? in your psyche with another activity or habit. I have been surrounding myself with hobbies. I am back playing my guitars and my biggest activity is now wine making. I guess if I can't smoke, I might as well be drunk! Seriously, this hobby consumes my times of boredom which attributed to my smoking habit. Thats how I have kept my mind off of smoking.

Smurfe :beer:

[emtp2031]

I too used a smoking cessation kit...but I had to switch to an herbal one because I had reactions to the nicoderm etc....throat closing off was a big reason :lol: the herbal kit worked great..actually better than the nicotine replacement..this had no nicotine in it,no side effects...I had support for my quitting..the cravings do occur but not that often and when they do not that long...theyre gone in a few seconds...Im like Steve if I even smell it it repulses me...when my kids come from the ex's they have to strip and get in the shower and give me all their clean clothes..because even those clothes reek of cigarettes and I have to wash them.....both the ex and his girlfriend especially chain smoke in the house...but with what Steve said..he's right on !!!!!

[smurfe]

Beth, the kit I used was an Herbal kit as well. I have never tried any of the patches or stuff like that. Roz wouldn't take the kit as she has a pill phobia. I offered to get her some patches but she just don't want to quit so it isn't going to happen.

Smurfe :beer:

[BFD Medic424]

Beth, the kit I used was an Herbal kit as well. I have never tried any of the patches or stuff like that. Roz wouldn't take the kit as she has a pill phobia. I offered to get her some patches but she just don't want to quit so it isn't going to happen.

Smurfe :beer:

You could get her off the smokes with crack!:rotflmao: :rotflmao: Just an idea:D

[DaSharkie]

You know, after last month's surgery rotation i just keep learning more and more the bad effects of tobacco use in general.

I figure why pay $3 a pack (or more in the North) for something that is only going to kill you one way or the other and makes some other bastard very wealthy. I say screw 'em.

Does Ros want to be around to see the little one get married? Graduate from college? Spend time with her grandkids?

Remember, lung cancer is fatal in 5 years to all but a very small number of people and there is no treatment for it. Only paliative surgery and care to put off the painful death that metastasis brings when it spreads to the breast and then to the bones.

She want to be totin' around a little oxygen bottle forever and in and out of the hospital for bacterial pneumonia that just won't go away?

Quit now!

[EMSsquirrel]

I always thought a smoking cessation kit included a muzzle and four-point restraints...

- Greg

[DaSharkie]

I always thought a smoking cessation kit included a muzzle and four-point restraints...

- Greg

So I see that you enjoy that sort of thing. :jig: :jig: :jig: :jig:

(Not necessarily a bad thing by the way. ;) )

[EMSsquirrel]

So I see that you enjoy that sort of thing. :jig: :jig: :jig: :jig:

(Not necessarily a bad thing by the way. ;) )

Well, my girlfriend didn't call me an incorrigible pervert because of my stunning good looks.

- Greg

[DaSharkie]

Well, my girlfriend didn't call me an incorrigible pervert because of my stunning good looks.

- Greg

Heh, heh, heh. Only in an emergency services forum could a conversation go from smoking cessation and support to bondage.

God I love this job!

[smurfe]

You know, after last month's surgery rotation i just keep learning more and more the bad effects of tobacco use in general.

I figure why pay $3 a pack (or more in the North) for something that is only going to kill you one way or the other and makes some other bastard very wealthy. I say screw 'em.

Does Ros want to be around to see the little one get married? Graduate from college? Spend time with her grandkids?

Remember, lung cancer is fatal in 5 years to all but a very small number of people and there is no treatment for it. Only paliative surgery and care to put off the painful death that metastasis brings when it spreads to the breast and then to the bones.

She want to be totin' around a little oxygen bottle forever and in and out of the hospital for bacterial pneumonia that just won't go away?

Quit now!

You ain't telling me anything new. I have been on her a$$ for months now with no results except occasional hatred. I have tried to reason, shame, guilt or what ever to get her to quit. She don't want to so I guess it ain't gonna happen :( Guess I need to up the life insurance!

Smurfe :beer:

[EMSsquirrel]

You ain't telling me anything new. I have been on her a$$ for months now with no results except occasional hatred.

We were talking about smoking, Smurfe! SMOKING!

- Greg

[joemt]

LMAO.... too funny! :bow:

[DaSharkie]

You ain't telling me anything new. I have been on her a$$ for months now with no results except occasional hatred.

Hatred in the bedroom is a bad thing. Sex is a good thing. Too bad men can't use it as a bartering chip since women are much more disciplined in holding out than men are.

[epmagoolee]

First off, if your Mom is a non-smoker, she knows you smoke. Anyone that is a non-smoker knows you smoke unless you smoke buck-a$$ naked outside the shower and jump in as soon as you put it out. I can't believe I smelled that bad all these years. The actual smell of someone smoking does not bother me but the smell of smoke on clothes and in the wifes vehicle turns my stomach to the verge of puking.
Smurfe :beer:


Actually since my husband and I are always together, I do smell like smoke already,and my Mother doesnt know... but anyway I do know what you mean about the smell, Im already that way, the stale smell makes me sick, and smoking is not allowed in the bedroom (my rule) Im more of a social smoker really, I guess thats what makes it hardest..

[emtp2031]

Steve the herbal kit I used didnt have any pills...patches only...half the size of the nicotine patches....boy I wish that when I smoked it was only socially...then it wouldve been ALOT easier to quit.....:bang:

[lucy]

hello

i am new here and the topic of the thread itself prompted me to write here, this is one problem that my husband is facing he has already made several failed attempts to get rid of this dreadful habit but to no avail. i think however this is entirely dependant on the resolve and determination of the person himself else no one can make one quit smoking, and i am quite sure to this.

[smurfe]

hello

i am new here and the topic of the thread itself prompted me to write here, this is one problem that my husband is facing he has already made several failed attempts to get rid of this dreadful habit but to no avail. i think however this is entirely dependant on the resolve and determination of the person himself else no one can make one quit smoking, and i am quite sure to this.

You are correct, the person has to WANT to quit. I have griped, moaned and pleaded to get my wife to quit. She has no desire to so I have given up griping about it. I guess I will just be nauseated while in her presence.

Smurfe :beer:

[BFD Medic424]

hello

i am new here and the topic of the thread itself prompted me to write here, this is one problem that my husband is facing he has already made several failed attempts to get rid of this dreadful habit but to no avail. i think however this is entirely dependant on the resolve and determination of the person himself else no one can make one quit smoking, and i am quite sure to this.

I don't smoke, but I have known a lot of people who do and have quit or tried to quit. The ones that make it are usually those who really want it. Will power is definately the key.

Welcome to the site by the way.:wave:

[Shannon]

I am working toward quitting smoking for the 5th time. My main issues now are the "triggers" and I would love some suggestions on how to deal with them. The first is fairly easy, which is my tendency to get on the phone, head outside and light up (I don't smoke in the house). I can force myself to stay inside, but the trigger of being on the phone is such that I start immediately itching to light up, so I get up and walk around. The second is harder to deal with and that is the habit of lighting up as soon as I get in my car. I can't avoid driving, but I sure could use some ideas on how to manage.

I am not in the most stable frame of mind right now, as anyone who has quit can attest, but I am open to suggestions and I promise not to bite anyone's head off! I could also use some moral support as my boyfriend is of the mind that anyone can quit "cold turkey", which is how he did it. He wants me to quit but is not very helpful in the support department.

By the way, I am new here (not to mention a newbie Basic - despite my advanced age) and after spending quite a bit of time looking around, I think it's great!

[Firegirl444]

Hey everyone...I've been gone for awhile but the computer is again up and running and boy was I glad to see this thread still here!!! Since my daughter was born last June I started smoking again and quit about five times....I am absolutely repulsed by myself at this point!!!! If I could just get through the first 48 hours.....

What kind of herbal kit did you guys use? The gum makes me want to vomit, the patches give me insomnia, I'm running out of crutches here!!!! Help!!!

[smurfe]

I used THIS KIT (http://www.avprin.com/)to stop. I didn't use the weight loss stuff much as anyone who has seen my expanded gut can tell but it sure helped me get over my cravings. I will tell you, even with this, it won't be a piece of cake and the first few days are total hell so don't think it is a miracle cure. It takes a self dedication to want to stop before you will ever be successful.

Smurfe :beer: