I'm still smoking...

[Stifle]

I recently made the transition to vaping in mid January and I had a lot of instant success. I smoked my last analog about 3 days after I got my eGo and was clean and clear for about 3 weeks.

Then some stress at work made me rush for a pack, of which I smoked about 5 and then tossed the pack. I was then good for about another 2 weeks.

Since then however, I have been a little spotty with my PV. I was a PAD ultra-light smoker before switching to vaping and even now I am probably only smoking in the range of 5 - 20 a week. But, it feels like I am losing some progress here in my battle to stay off of analogs.

I know I may have stepped my nic level down too fast (24 to 18-12mg) and that caused me to crave analogs, but I was having some serious insomnia and near nic overdoses that drove me down. While I feel I've now balanced those symptoms and cravings a bit..I'm still having trouble.

Not sure if I'm looking for advice, or what. But, has anyone else been through this same thing and come out successful?

Thanks for the input guys and gals, I appreciate it.

 

[zeromisfit999]

Hey stifle, I'm completely new to the world of vaping, and to this forum. I've been toying around with a crappy model e-cig for a while, and am still smoking, so I feel your pain. Some people have the will power for overnight success, some people don't, and it's not a shot at your ego or self-esteem. It's an inevitable addiction. Once your hooked on the idea of smoking, I feel you will always crave that. I just hope I find the right PV to make it work for me. I don't know what steps you've taken to quit completely. But I've got my ideal situation down to the last bite of info, and I will happily share it with you.

1. The day I receive my e-cig. I will have a pack of cigarettes, preferably full, with a receipt.
2. I will smoke one single cigarette out of that pack. After having vaped for a few hours. I want to do this to realize how much better vaping is on your body than the smoke. You've got to prove to yourself mentally that analog cigarettes are going to inevitably kill you if you do not quit.
3. I'm going to take that pack of cigarettes and destroy it. Maybe throw 6 bucks on top of it and light it on fire.
4. Then I'm going to clean my entire house. get rid of every ash tray. every cigarette related thing. Even lighters.
5. Going to wash my clothes. and grab some teeth whitening products from Wal-Mart or somewhere.
6. I may even make a list of the pro's and con's.

I am only doing all of these drastic things because I have tried everything on the planet to quit smoking cigarettes. Cold Turkey, Patch, gum(unbearable). The only thing remotely close to helping is vaping.

I hope this was of some help to you. It's 2 am so if it's a bit senseless I apologize, just know, you are not alone in the battle.

 

[timato]

When I. First started vaping a few months ago I had the same problem. While I had cut down smokes tremendously from 2 packs a day to just a few a day I never felt satisfied. My wife kept showing me these mods on the forum which I was reluctant to try for a while cuz I thought they were odd, and wouldn't dare take it out in public. We'll I have to admit I was wrong, these more powerful pv's actual simulate a smoking experience even more satisfying than smoking itself. I haven't had a cigarette since and I'm sure its because of these pvs. I know that feeling though and its discouraging. But I'm sure you will find what works for you with the help of this forum.

 

[techtony]

First off, no matter what, don't get discouraged! And don't pressure yourself I still smoked 1 or 2 at night for weeks and weeks after I started vaping. what happens happens. Keep it up and good luck!

 

[Valsacar]

For me it was easy, I got my Ego at 2pm and used it the whole day. Next morning I wanted to compare the flavors. Puff off Ego, Puff off cig... OMG that is disgusting. That was it, any time I wanted another one I remembered that taste.

For a while I still got cravings, so I got some 24mg to use for the tough cravings and stuck with the lower (12-18mg) for the rest of the time.

Don't feel bad about going back, the important part is you're smoking LESS. Just think about how many you HAVEN'T smoked and be happy with your accomplishment. You'll get there, just stick with it!

P.S. What type of PV do you have?

 

[tehki]

Hi there

You are definitely not alone. I'm still getting cravings too, and was having an real cigarette here and there since I got my vaping stuff a couple weeks ago. I just finished off what was left in the pack I had the other day... and have been okay since then but from what I am gathering, getting a stronger PV sounds like it might make a big difference. I do know that I can feel a difference between just my 510 and the 808-d... and the little extra power the 808-d has DOES translate to a more 'real smoking' feeling for me.

Also, on another thread earlier I read the following, and copied it for myself because I liked it - though it was simple. Maybe some things like this could help you too (sorry to the other poster I'm copying this from, I don't remember your name):

Slam a full glass of water when you get a craving, it's good for you and you'll need it with vaping anyway.
Brush your teeth when you get a craving, I know I didn't care as much for a cig right after brushing my teeth, and it's good for you as well.

And of course those are really simple things but maybe you can make a list of ideas for yourself like that so you have some other things to focus on when you get your craving.

As a last note I'll say that my stepdad had quit cold turkey and went without smoking for 10 years - and STILL had cig cravings. In fact after being without analogs for 10 years, he was stressed one time about surgery and went back to smoking for about 2-3 years before he successfully quit again this past summer sometime. I'm pretty sure even seeing me with an ecig gives him some kinda craving, though - he didn't say that but I got that impression.

So all in all I'm inclined to say that we might always have a craving but stay strong and keep sticking to your guns like you have been. It is easy to get discouraged but try to focus on the cigs you AREN'T smoking instead of the ones you are. Just stay positive!!

 

[Stifle]

...

P.S. What type of PV do you have?

I have a big selection of the eGo family including a few Rivas (SE) and a few eGo T setups. I generally use the Tank system as I think it has the least upkeep time for me and I absolutely hate messing with filler and cartos.

I find the flavor is excellent from the juice vendor I use, and I have a lot of different options to choose from as far as flavors, flavor intensity, nic level, pg/vg mix, etc.

I feel pretty comfortable with my setup, but I seem to keep getting into these brief panics when I need an analog. If am going on my lunch break at work, or I'm headed home from a tough day at work an analog sounds so good and they are so readily available (part of the problem to begin with). ( I'm wondering if this might be the MAOIs i'm craving as well?)

I've been thinking I needed to try some highly regarded tobacco flavors at a high nic level, since up until now I have not liked any tobacco flavors and feel that the replication might help.

Also, while I had no reservations about needing an analog replication in my PV's size and look when I started, I am beginning to believe that I may have more success with a KR808 mini style (possibly in combination with the tobacco flavors). Since the eGo, especially with the eGo-T 1000mah battery, is not a close replication to an analog.

I'm not sure, and I've definitely been without analogs long enough from vaping to really see the benefits starting to emerge. But, for some reason I keep slipping back and it can get me frustrated in moments of stress. I know as others have stated, that this ultimately is about keeping my consumption down as much as it is about quitting..but after tasting the success of feeling like I've kicked it..it sucks to feel like I'm losing ground.

Thanks for all the input and advice folks!

 

[tehki]

If you wanna try an 808d madvapes has a small kit with 1 auto battery, 1 menthol carto, and 1 usb charger for 10 bucks that's been working fine for me

 

[Stifle]

If you wanna try an 808d madvapes has a small kit with 1 auto battery, 1 menthol carto, and 1 usb charger for 10 bucks that's been working fine for me

That might be worth a shot, thanks! I think I want to try it in a manual battery, but the auto might be something to consider as well.

 

[tehki]

Yeah you're definitely better off going for a manual battery - but if you're just trying 'er out it might be worth it for the price.

 

[Rob Ril]

I started having cravings again too. Its weird how off and on they are. Most of the time, I'll smell smoke and get disgusted. But few seldom, I smell one and almost cave. I don't though because I think of all the reasons I quit. Then I grab my new LR tankomizer and ego, and take a few hits. It kills the craving almost completely. Try the new LR version because that helped me a good bit. My other weakness is swisher sweets. They weren't my everyday smoke but when I'd smell them, I'd buy a pack. I'm thinking of buying Swisher Spice from nicfitnation.com to see if that will kill the craving - most reviews say the taste and smell is spot on. Stifle, as far as a cig taste, Vapor4life has something that is super close, Nuport. It reminds you how bad actual cigs taste. Lol, not saying their flavor is off or bad...its spot on. Just its a quick reminder of what you quit. Hope that helps.

 

[Stifle]

Nice, thanks Rob!

I've also heard good things about FSUSA PureCig, but have thus far steered clear of the analog type juices. Might be worth the shot though.

I've heard some swear by 5v to get them the hot vape and lung expansion that people get with analogs. But, I worry that with fruit/sweet juice I am likely not going to really enjoy them as much at 5v.

 

[juicejunky]

You might try a LR 510 cartomizer on your ego. It will give you more heat and flavor than the eGo-T and not that much more difficult. A LR-ego tank might also do the trick. It might be cheaper than a whole new setup, although I use egos at home to drip and KR808 on the road. I abandoned my tanks because the vape was too cool and lacked the taste level I crave.

What helps me when I get a cigarette panic attack, is as you suggested to yourself. A very strong as close to cigarette tasting e-juice in a high nicotine level that I pull out and take a few drags off. It usually kills the urge. My choice is FreedomSmokesUSA Wyatt Earp at 24mg, but your flavor and level would be personal to what works for you. Wyatt Earp taste like a stale cigarette to me and leaves a very real cigarette aftertaste in my mouth. I don't like it, but that and the minor nicotine rush does the trick in just a few drips then I go back to my usual 12mg favorites. You could keep a tank or cartomizer of it around and just slap it on for a few drags. It gives me the "cheating" feeling without really cheating.

One of the best things about vaping is you can change flavors, strengths, and PVs whenever you feel like it. The variety has really helped me.

I'm further along than you (100 days vaping today, Yippie!!!) and I know from the last time I tried I couldn't take more than 2 drags from a real cigarette before putting it out. You still seem to be able to tolerate smoking. Do you find you like them less everytime you take a long break from them? If so you are heading in the right direction.

Anyway good luck and don't beat yourself up, you've cut down and that is commendable. Read the MAOI/snus threads and blogs if all else fails and you really want to stop smoking.

 

[Rob Ril]

....but have thus far steered clear of the analog type juices. Might be worth the shot though.

Yea I hate analog juices. Not because they are made bad, but because analog taste is crap really. But its good to keep at least a bottle just in case you get the urge.

I'm further along than you (100 days vaping today, Yippie!!!) and I know from the last time I tried I couldn't take more than 2 drags from a real cigarette before putting it out. You still seem to be able to tolerate smoking. Do you find you like them less everytime you take a long break from them? If so you are heading in the right direction.

I've quit for 3 months with vaping and then went back to analogs for about 7 months. The first few analogs were hard but tasted real good (I was drunk). Then it just went back to normal...buying a pack every day. Then when clearomizers and the ego-t stuff came out, I found my solution. My original problem was a convenience issue. Now I don't have much of a problem whatsoever.


Oh and Stifle, one last thing - I 'all-day' vape strictly fruit tasting juices, no coffee or tobacco or anything like that. The problem is the sweet type of taste doesn't kill actual die hard analog cravings....to me it actually makes it worse. This is why you should find one that is very similar to what you used to smoke and keep it around. It'll come in handy when you get that dirty ashtray flavor craving. lol. but for real, that's what works for me.

 

[runout_mick]

1. The day I receive my e-cig. I will have a pack of cigarettes, preferably full, with a receipt.
2. I will smoke one single cigarette out of that pack. After having vaped for a few hours. I want to do this to realize how much better vaping is on your body than the smoke. You've got to prove to yourself mentally that analog cigarettes are going to inevitably kill you if you do not quit.
3. I'm going to take that pack of cigarettes and destroy it. Maybe throw 6 bucks on top of it and light it on fire.
4. Then I'm going to clean my entire house. get rid of every ash tray. every cigarette related thing. Even lighters.
5. Going to wash my clothes. and grab some teeth whitening products from Wal-Mart or somewhere.
6. I may even make a list of the pro's and con's.

Personally, I wouldn't do any of this. If you get a decent PV, the occasional analog will reinforce your desire to stay vaping. I'm back on analogs for a few days (waiting on juice and DIY supplies) and they are TERRIBLE. Literally making me gag. I've only been using ecigs for a short time, but was full-time vaping within 3 days of getting my kit. My lonely analogs just sat forgotten on a shelf. Actually, I'm still vaping about 1/2 the time, but I'm stuck with unflavoured juice cut with grocery store vanilla extract for a hint of flavour. The high alcohol content makes it a huge pain to vape.

If you throw out all of your smoking supplies you are going to feel "forced" into vaping. Maybe start to resent it for taking away your precious cigarettes and view it as a punishment. If you still allow yourself full access to cigarettes, I'd be willing to bet that you'll choose the vape waaay more often than the coffin nail.

Can't wait til my supplies get here. If my nic makes it across the border, I'll be set for several years.

 

[mccawley]

I had the urge to smoke a few times.
I vape 12mg (self mixed), but have an atty/cart filled with 24mg for the craving moments.

Also, I heard that when you get the craving for a cigarette drink a glass of milk, or eat some chocolate. supposedly 90% of people find the mixture of cigarette and chocolate and/or milk nasty so the body loses the craving to avoid the taste combo.

Cant hurt to try

 

[six]

I went through it. In fact, I still get monster cravings a couple of times a day some days that are a bit hard to cope with. - I ended up doing something about it though. I keep a little 3 ml bottle of my "best" tobacco flavor (in 36 mm nic) and a primed atty in my kit at all times. No matter what flavor I'm vaping for the day, if I get a serious craving, I just spin off the atty I'm using and spin on my drip and have a few drags of the juice I consider to be my "closest to analog experience". I even get up and go outside to do it (I was never an indoor smoker - part of my analog habit was to get up and go outdoors or to the garage).

 

[n2xe]

A lot of people struggle with this so you're not alone. If you are smoking less then that's a victory in itself. I did have a few pangs for an analog when I first quit but none since. The PV was glued to my face 24/7 for the first three weeks or so. But I found this place and LR atomizers and bumped my nicquid up from 18 to 24mg/ml and never gave analogs a second look.

Everyone is different but I think you'll be able to find a solution that works for you. I was a 2.5 PAD smoker so I was pretty much an expert! It's also a lot easier for us where smoking has done irrepairable damage so just being able to breath better is exceptional reward.

I would recommend that you forget about any "timetable", find what works and celebrate every cigarette that you don't smoke. Good luck and God speed...

 

[maureengill]

I would also add that if you know when you start to jones....use the 10 minutes before that to constantly use your pv and build up your nic a little....so that it's already at the level you need and it makes the craving pass easier...

 

[316lvm]

Lots of excellent advice and personal stories.

My story is pretty much the same. After I got my ecig I quit smoking for a year and about 2 months. Got mad and started smoking again. Now I'm trying to find my way again.

I get discouraged too; then realize this is a whole new journey. I smoked 2-3 packs a day for 25 years. To have gone 1 year without cigs is a miracle for me. Even smoking a pack every 2 weeks is a miracle compared to what I used to smoke.

You will find your way.