New Quitter

[Petehendry]

Hello,

Day 1 of quitting today, and although had a few moments when I felt like needed a cigarette, generally been a good day. Slightly planned ahead got me some patches and gum over a year ago from the doctors... But never actually taken the leap.

I am expecting at some point the cough to start, although I have quit in middle of a cold. So already have stuffed up nose and congestion. What really spurred me on is last week I was diagnosed with Acid Reflux... Feels like heartburn that won't go away... I was told by doctor that my you have a sphincter in your throat that can be significantly weakened by smoking!! And the feeling was that horrendous that I no longer want to smoke. There are also other reasons for me quitting, but keep it short.

My question for you guys, today I was using 2mg gum and 25mg patch, when I I put the patch on a short while later I have this strange sensation in the back of my throat... It felt like bubbles/bad breathe coming up from my throat... I gone with it for the day, when I have taken it off this evening, after a few hours the feeling disappeared. Do you think this could indicate that I using a patch too strong? My smoking patterns were never regular, average about 20 a day... But sometimes could have 3 in a hour, and others go without for 5 hours... I thinking of not using patch tommorrow, trying just gun/lozengers to see if it's any better.

[glolin LONG TERM WINNER]

Hi Petehendry and a warm welcome to quit support. Congratulations on your decision to quit smoking.

Sorry I can’t help you in terms of using patches as I never used them myself. I am aware that some people have had skin irritations from patches, but not heard about the throat.

Take a looked under the pinned posts as there is a wealth of information that may help you. If it’s any consolation I still haven’t had the cough (I quit 5 years ago). No two quits are the same.

Understanding that it is a rollercoaster as your body adjusts to not only the withdrawal from nicotine, but all the other chemicals found in cigarettes. It is incredible to think that there is over 4000 nasty chemicals found in cigarettes.

Enjoy your quit journey, I am sure one of our many members who quit using patches will be about and will be able to share their experiences with patches.

Good luck and all the very best with your quit journey

[TheTabbyCat Administrator 6 Years smokefree]

Hi Petehendry, Well done for your decision to quit👏

Welcome to Quit Support.💙

It’s never easy to quit but it’s easier with a little support.💪

I'm afraid that personally I have never used patches but watch this space as sooner or later someone, somewhere will be able to help.

Please read the pinned posts,📌 there is lots of information there. You will find the posts to the right or at the bottom of your screen depending which device you are using.

May I suggest you drink plenty of water💧💦 to flush out the toxins and keep yourself hydrated.

If you feel you need any more help please don’t hesitate to ask. There is always someone here.

May I remind you not to post any personal information.

Good luck with your quit.🍀🚭xx

[Briarwood Administrator Ducky]

Hi Pete and welcome to Quit Support.

Well done for taking that leap of faith, it’s the best thing you can do for yourself.

It could be that the patch is too strong for you, so if this happens again I think it would be best to try the lower strength. Some people can have an allergic reaction to them.

You could try just using the gum and see how that goes.

It’s trial and error really.

I see you’ve been given good advice already so I won’t repeat that.

We look forward to to supporting you on your journey to a healthier lifestyle. Good luck and we’re all here to help🚭✅xx

[Petehendry 4 MONTH WINNER]

Thanks guys end of day 2 and I'm staying strong... Didn't go with the patches today, went just with the gum... Found that my mouth had an involuntary action to keep chewing, so definitely need to work on that.

I been reading lots online and the other posts etc.... Is it weird that I'm looking forward to developing the cough and getting rid of the 'crap in my lungs'? so far I really just feel like I've taken away one of the pleasures of life and I want to see action, not just feel like crap for no reason.

Didn't really keep track on how much Gum I used today, but I no every time I got in the van, one went straight in... Gonna make an appointment to see local smoking nurse and see what she has to say about the patches etc...

[TheTabbyCat Administrator 6 Years smokefree in reply to Petehendry]

Well done Pete! You can handle this. Remember we all have different reactions to quitting, not everyone coughs at the beginning. Drink lots of water and take it a day at a time.💪🚭

[MarionKnot57 5 MONTH WINNER]

I know some people have tonsil stones that develop in the crevices of tonsils. If you quit smoking your tonsils will start to heal and expell the tonsil stones. They are usually made up of accumulated bacteria and mucus that can have quite an odor. The bubbling sensation maybe fluid needed to expel the tonsil stones. An Ear, nose and throat doctor has the skills to check for this and other throat problems. Salt and water gargles are helpful with healing from sore throats in general. Do watch the deep breathing exercises they are very helpful and will make cleansing your lungs with productive cough's and save on your energy.