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Bonobo

(29,257 posts)
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 12:38 AM Jul 2014

If e-cigs really helped you or someone you love quit smoking, PLEASE post here.

Why should you post?

Because lives may be saved. If an e-cigarette can get you or someone you know to stop smoking, their lives may be saved, they will regain their cardiovascular fitness, no longer smell bad and maybe stop hating themselves.

It's a good thing all around.

So please post your story or just give a "Yes. They helped"

84 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
Highlight: NoneDon't highlight anything 5 newestHighlight 5 most recent replies
If e-cigs really helped you or someone you love quit smoking, PLEASE post here. (Original Post) Bonobo Jul 2014 OP
Two friends from work used e cigs to quit. abelenkpe Jul 2014 #1
Me. Luminous Animal Jul 2014 #2
At the end of November 2014, NavyDem Jul 2014 #3
Yes, it helped me LuvNewcastle Jul 2014 #4
I am down to 1 real cig a week. betterdemsonly Jul 2014 #5
5 months for me & never going back to the stinkies. U4ikLefty Jul 2014 #6
Who sells those? My husband has quit smoking about 5 times now. Each time it has lasted for a Dark n Stormy Knight Jul 2014 #7
Depends how much you're willing to spend Prophet 451 Jul 2014 #10
Thanks for the info. I won't offer it to my husband just yet because he is still quit Dark n Stormy Knight Jul 2014 #19
This. Treant Jul 2014 #33
i use the Vision Spinner for my BHO tanks.. frylock Jul 2014 #61
I just found a better one than the kanger, and it's easier to manage. displacedtexan Jul 2014 #67
You can buy them from ebay now betterdemsonly Jul 2014 #12
Thanks for the info. :) Dark n Stormy Knight Jul 2014 #20
*kicking self* Prophet 451 Jul 2014 #22
If your looking for a good low-cost PV then the eGo-C Twist is a good chioce. U4ikLefty Jul 2014 #13
Thank you, I appreciate the info. Hoping not to need it, but I want to be prepared Dark n Stormy Knight Jul 2014 #21
E-Go also makes rechargable batteries with USB ports.... sweetloukillbot Jul 2014 #29
Some of the personal vaporizers I use meow2u3 Jul 2014 #51
Helped me Prophet 451 Jul 2014 #8
Congratulations! Mariana Jul 2014 #15
Thanks, man! Prophet 451 Jul 2014 #18
3 within the last year. SamKnause Jul 2014 #9
Checking in LadyHawkAZ Jul 2014 #11
That's not a backslide Treant Jul 2014 #35
I haven't smoked at all for more than three years. Mariana Jul 2014 #14
hell yes they have helped. Almost 5 months for me demtenjeep Jul 2014 #16
I have not quit cigarettes, but have cut my consumption in half. Comrade Grumpy Jul 2014 #17
My grandmother quit smoking with the help of a simple fake cigarette. When I was quitting, ages ago, Dark n Stormy Knight Jul 2014 #23
Three years since my last cigarette. After 50 years of smoking. Tierra_y_Libertad Jul 2014 #24
After 29 years of almot 2 packs a day, I have been cigarette free for almost 4 months. Behind the Aegis Jul 2014 #25
My son has almost entirely quit regular cigarettes using ecigs. Cigarettes Nay Jul 2014 #26
Me JustAnotherGen Jul 2014 #27
Njoys made me cough up a lung meow2u3 Jul 2014 #52
Me too! JustAnotherGen Jul 2014 #56
Me, my Wife, and my Mother all quit smoking using E-Cigs krawhitham Jul 2014 #28
Yes, in fact it cured me of a 35 year addiction Dragonfli Jul 2014 #30
Congratulations! Treant Jul 2014 #32
+14. Treant Jul 2014 #31
I used the gum years ago, but I'll throw in my support... TreasonousBastard Jul 2014 #34
I quit smoking Unknown Beatle Jul 2014 #36
I tried almost everything Nightjock Jul 2014 #37
Question for E cig users...about weight loss. progressoid Jul 2014 #38
Have her try the vape pen with 0 nicotine juice . My last cig was in Jan, I went on 0 nicotine Autumn Jul 2014 #40
Thanks, I didn't know they made a 0 nicotine one. progressoid Jul 2014 #42
Yes and in all sorts of flavors. Autumn Jul 2014 #44
Yup, and good odds she can hit up good flavors for the weak spots TheKentuckian Jul 2014 #78
Somewhat Prophet 451 Jul 2014 #70
I quit with e cigs. It's a wonderful feeling and the easiest thing I ever did. Autumn Jul 2014 #39
My cousin used it to quit once his daughter was born IronLionZion Jul 2014 #41
It will be a year next month for my husband and I Oilwellian Jul 2014 #43
My brother ... LisaLynne Jul 2014 #45
I've been smoke-free for 8 months, thanks to personal vaporizers meow2u3 Jul 2014 #46
Kicked it after 40 yrs! tavernier Jul 2014 #47
My wife was a pack a day smoker. LexVegas Jul 2014 #48
Yes. They helped. NCTraveler Jul 2014 #49
None so far. Everyone I know who used e cigs, went back to smoking the B Calm Jul 2014 #50
Me too. Can't kill the habit if you're still grabbing for something to puff on. n/t Dawgs Jul 2014 #54
The only person I know that used them starting smoking again. Dawgs Jul 2014 #53
Yes ...wife quit using e-cigs. L0oniX Jul 2014 #55
Congrats to all that have quit etherealtruth Jul 2014 #57
Yes. They helped. nt redqueen Jul 2014 #58
I know at least 10-12. linuxman Jul 2014 #59
Yes, it helped me... Skeletor Jul 2014 #60
Helped my husband get off high blood pressure meds. He's been using eCigs for about 3 years Beaverhausen Jul 2014 #62
yes, several. nt La Lioness Priyanka Jul 2014 #63
Yes, I quit after 30 years using an eGo-C Ruby the Liberal Jul 2014 #64
Completely off of tobacco products Kermitt Gribble Jul 2014 #65
Just over a year for me, no cigarettes. I use a vape pen not an 'e-cig' but I did use disposables at Bluenorthwest Jul 2014 #66
Since me and my husband started vaping, Holly_Hobby Jul 2014 #68
11 members of a group home for schizophrenics. politicat Jul 2014 #69
Cigarette free after 39 years! Pastiche423 Jul 2014 #71
My hair dresser was a heavy smoker Texasgal Jul 2014 #72
8 months without a cigarette... SomethingFishy Jul 2014 #73
I know at least 10 people who have quit smoking JaneyVee Jul 2014 #74
Thank you for posting this One Voice Jul 2014 #75
I bought a vap kit in May and it has helped me cut way back, rudolph the red Jul 2014 #76
No cigarettes for me since April 2013 and I think it will stick. TheKentuckian Jul 2014 #77
Me. Finally quit with e-cigs. nt. Hosnon Jul 2014 #79
Yes, they are life savers for my family Live and Learn Jul 2014 #80
Yes, they helped me (2 1/2 years smoke free after 33 years logosoco Jul 2014 #81
Message auto-removed Name removed Jan 2016 #82
Message auto-removed Name removed Feb 2016 #83
Message auto-removed Name removed Jul 2019 #84

abelenkpe

(9,933 posts)
1. Two friends from work used e cigs to quit.
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 12:42 AM
Jul 2014

Watched them try many times before to quit. E cigs helped them finally succeed.


Well, so far. Only been a couple years.

LuvNewcastle

(16,834 posts)
4. Yes, it helped me
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 12:47 AM
Jul 2014

I'm 44, and it helped me quit for 3 weeks. You have to understand, I had never even quit for a day since I was 15. I still have the ecig, and I'm going to do it again. At least now I know I can.

U4ikLefty

(4,012 posts)
6. 5 months for me & never going back to the stinkies.
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 12:49 AM
Jul 2014

I was a light smoker for the last few years (3-5 smokes after work), but vaping helped me quit altogether.

I would recommend trying a GOOD personal vaporizer, not one of those crappy disposables sold by Big Tobacco.

Dark n Stormy Knight

(9,760 posts)
7. Who sells those? My husband has quit smoking about 5 times now. Each time it has lasted for a
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 12:53 AM
Jul 2014

shorter period of time. I wonder if a good personal vaporizer would help him. I also wonder what a good personal vaporizer is.

Prophet 451

(9,796 posts)
10. Depends how much you're willing to spend
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 01:04 AM
Jul 2014

I can't give you website links because I'm in the UK but if you'd like to keep it relatively cheap, look for something with an eGo coupling manufactured by Kanger or Joytech, a clear or tinted tank, with replaceable atomiser/wicks (saves a fortune in the long run). THIS is the one I got. You'll need to change either the clearomiser (the tank) or the wick inside it every six weeks or so.

Beyond that, try out lots of different flavours and be aware that your tastes may well change quickly as your sense of taste comes back. If you can find someplace that does cheap sampler bottles, buy a load of those until you find a flavour you like.

Good luck!

Dark n Stormy Knight

(9,760 posts)
19. Thanks for the info. I won't offer it to my husband just yet because he is still quit
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 01:24 AM
Jul 2014

(two weeks now) and would be insulted. But if he starts again, as he has in the past, I'll share this with him.

Treant

(1,968 posts)
33. This.
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 03:32 AM
Jul 2014

Genuine Joye eGo series are probably the most common and use the most commonly available screw thread (I actually use an alternate, which limits what I can put on my battery without finagling).

Of them all, I'm partial to the Vision Spinner, the eGo Twist (both variable voltage so if you need more kick right then you just turn the dial a little bit, then turn it back when your craving fades).

But there's much to recommend the simple eGo and it's the place a lot of people start. Plus they're pretty cheap and hundreds (if not thousands) of vape shops and online retailers will have them.

Best of luck to your husband and I hope he's successful and doesn't NEED the eGo!

frylock

(34,825 posts)
61. i use the Vision Spinner for my BHO tanks..
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 01:28 PM
Jul 2014

can't recommend it enough. have had better success with the new Spinner II.

displacedtexan

(15,696 posts)
67. I just found a better one than the kanger, and it's easier to manage.
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 07:18 PM
Jul 2014

I've been cig free and vaping since Jan. 10th, and I've tried several types. The best one so far for me is the EXXUS 510 personal vape pen. There are no wicks to get gunked up, and it's much easier to fill the tank without getting liquid into the heating tube. The battery charge lasts as long as the MatchFree brand one I've had for several months.

The kanger one was finicky for me. I never could get a perfect balance between the airflow valve and the tightness/looseness of the seals. But that's probably just me.

The main point is: No matter how many different brands and types you buy, it costs less than cigarettes, and it's NOT CIGARETTES.

Hope This helps.

 

betterdemsonly

(1,967 posts)
12. You can buy them from ebay now
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 01:10 AM
Jul 2014

Last edited Fri Jul 25, 2014, 02:30 AM - Edit history (1)

IMHO the best kits include two ego-c upgrade batteries 1000mah with the ce5+ wickless clearomizer, with replaceable atomizers. Then you want ejuice. My personal favorite is Vixen Vapes, which you can access online.

U4ikLefty

(4,012 posts)
13. If your looking for a good low-cost PV then the eGo-C Twist is a good chioce.
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 01:10 AM
Jul 2014

Doing some research is a good idea. Here's a great website http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/forum/

Oh, and here's a place that sells the eGo-C Twist http://www.myvaporstore.com/Joye_eGo_C_Twist_Variable_Voltage_650mAh_Battery_p/ego-c-tst.htm

I spent the $$$ and bought a "premium" vape (Provari Mini) but it was worth every cent.

sweetloukillbot

(10,972 posts)
29. E-Go also makes rechargable batteries with USB ports....
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 02:29 AM
Jul 2014

I have one of those I keep connected to my PC for the occasional puff. It's kind-of my electronic hookah! And it worked wonders for me. I quit cold turkey from analogs and was off nicotine completely within a year. 4 years now off cigarettes.

meow2u3

(24,759 posts)
51. Some of the personal vaporizers I use
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 09:41 AM
Jul 2014

Smok Aluminum ACE Variable Voltage/Wattage Mod Device[link:https://www.myfreedomsmokes.com/mods-rbas/digital/variable-wattage/smok-aluminum-ace-variable-voltage-wattage-mod-device.html| Mine is purple. You need 18650 batteries and a good charger for them to work.

I actually won this starter kit in a contest.

Prophet 451

(9,796 posts)
8. Helped me
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 12:54 AM
Jul 2014

I was a 50-a-day smoker for 25 years. And unlike many, I actively enjoyed smoking. Then my SO talked me into trying an ecig just because it would be easier for me when we're out to be able to have a couple of puffs rather than smoking a whole roll-up and having to frequently re-light it.

So she brought me one of those crappy disposables that Big Tobacco put out. Tasted foul and quit on me after less than a day but proved that I could get the same sensation as smoking from an ecig. So I went online, talked to a few people and asked a few questions and ended up buying VapeEscape's top-range starter kit (LINK). Cost me about sixty quid and I also spent another thirty getting a whole bunch of their liquid sampler bottles. Ninety quid. About what I'd spend on two month's of tobacco, papers, etc.

As soon as I started using my ecig, my 50-a-day dropped to five (two with morning coffee, two going to bed, one during studying). Over the course of teh next month after finding a couple of liquids a I really liked, with a little willpower (not much at all), I cut out those last five. I'm now at just over three months without a single cigarette. I alternate between VapeEscape's "7 Wolves" (tastes like Marlboro Reds) and cherry; cinnamon and cappucino flavours from Totally Wicked. Both are small online start-ups here in teh UK that have nothing to do with Big Tobacco (important to me because I'm very anti-corporate).

Three months with no analogs at all. My sense of smell has returned, my ability to breath has returned, my sense of taste is back with a vengeance (I hadn't realised quite how much hot sauce I was putting on everything). I've gone from 3000+ toxins in cigarettes to 1 and I control how much of that is in my liquids. When I started, I was on a mixture of 24mg and 18mg liquids. I've now dropped it down to a uniform 18mg and, in time, I'll drop it down further until I'm ju8st huffing flavoured steam for the taste and sensation.

I spend about twenty-five quid a month on liquids and replacement wicks for my ecig, much less than I spent on smoking stuff. The spare money is going to my wargaming hobby (toy soldiers with complicated rules). My SO is overjoyed that I've quit and no longer has to tolerate my second-hand smoke (nor do our cats). And I've even converted my mother (50 year smoker) to ecigs.

Mariana

(14,854 posts)
15. Congratulations!
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 01:14 AM
Jul 2014

I remember when you were asking about e-cigs. I'm glad to hear you're doing so well with them.

Prophet 451

(9,796 posts)
18. Thanks, man!
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 01:21 AM
Jul 2014

I'm doing so well on them that I've become something of an evangelist to the smokers in my life.

SamKnause

(13,088 posts)
9. 3 within the last year.
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 12:59 AM
Jul 2014

My nephew. (Quit smoking, quit vaping)

My nephew's wife. (Quit smoking, quit vaping)

My brother's girlfriend. (Quit smoking, still vaping)

Treant

(1,968 posts)
35. That's not a backslide
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 03:34 AM
Jul 2014

Miss LadyHawkAZ, it's a "training quit."

Think of all the cigarettes you didn't smoke when you were vaping. Every single one of those is a win and a personal victory--plus a health bonus to you.

This is difficult. There are no failures, only setbacks, and setbacks can be fixed if you decide you want to.

Mariana

(14,854 posts)
14. I haven't smoked at all for more than three years.
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 01:11 AM
Jul 2014

I bought my first rig during a very stressful time. My house was up for sale and we were getting ready to move to another state. I wasn't planning to try to quit with all that going on, but I'd been reading about them and the model I wanted to try went on sale for half price. I took it out of the package to make sure it worked, and I liked it so much from the very first drag that I never smoked again.

 

demtenjeep

(31,997 posts)
16. hell yes they have helped. Almost 5 months for me
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 01:14 AM
Jul 2014

9 months hubby hasn't chewed


almost 2 years for future son-in-law!

yes they have helped GREATLY

 

Comrade Grumpy

(13,184 posts)
17. I have not quit cigarettes, but have cut my consumption in half.
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 01:17 AM
Jul 2014

I use an e-cig the rest of the time. My goal is to get down to maybe three a day, with my cups of coffee.

Dark n Stormy Knight

(9,760 posts)
23. My grandmother quit smoking with the help of a simple fake cigarette. When I was quitting, ages ago,
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 01:32 AM
Jul 2014

I used it a bit as well. I would really have used it more if I hadn't felt so silly, though I should have felt far sillier smoking the real ones. The thing about it that worked for me I think was just the deep breathing sucking on that thing forced me to do. Also, it felt in the hand and mouth just like a real ciggie and involved the same physical actions.

It was similar to this one, but I don't recall the fake burning end.

Behind the Aegis

(53,921 posts)
25. After 29 years of almot 2 packs a day, I have been cigarette free for almost 4 months.
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 01:39 AM
Jul 2014

Yes. It did and continues to help!

Nay

(12,051 posts)
26. My son has almost entirely quit regular cigarettes using ecigs. Cigarettes
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 01:43 AM
Jul 2014

have been so hard for him to quit, but he's almost there.

meow2u3

(24,759 posts)
52. Njoys made me cough up a lung
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 09:56 AM
Jul 2014

There's something in Njoys that don't agree with me. Must be the juice they use to fill the cartridges.

krawhitham

(4,638 posts)
28. Me, my Wife, and my Mother all quit smoking using E-Cigs
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 01:59 AM
Jul 2014

I went from 2 PAD for 20 years to none in about 2-3 weeks using E-Cigs

We have all be smoke free now for almost 16 months

I had tried the patch before and it did not work

Dragonfli

(10,622 posts)
30. Yes, in fact it cured me of a 35 year addiction
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 02:41 AM
Jul 2014

I didn't even really want to quit and so thought it would be near impossible, however I was diagnosed as having pulmonary hypertension and with that condition, there is no cure and it only gets worse not better. I had to quit as my body no longer receives oxygen as it should and so things like smoking are simply out of the question.

I tried the patch and nicorette which worked very poorly for me, then a friend gave me a vaporizer and I was able to quit without even the slightest discomfort, I am very nearly completely off the nicotine as well, having moved from 24 mg to 18 to 12 and now I mix that half and half with a flavor only juice.

It is not a myth, it works and even my pulmonologist that does not even want me near second hand smoke or car exhaust if it can be avoided has no problem with the vaporizer. But what does he know, keyboard experts here think he is full of shit and fear my vapor from yards away, so he must be an idiot.

Treant

(1,968 posts)
32. Congratulations!
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 03:29 AM
Jul 2014

My cardiologist is thrilled and approves of me vaping for the rest of my life. My family doctor was over the moon when I told him and had me demonstrate the device for both his nurses and his receptionist. He approves and does not care if I vape for the rest of my life either.

So, you know, he also wasn't worried about me blasting "toxic vapor" around his office and around sick people.

My dentist says my gums look better than they have in twenty years. My teeth are healthier.

I can breathe. Walk hills. Run hills. Carry large bags of fertilizer. I couldn't be happier!

Those keyboard warriors? *&^# them. They have no clue what they're talking about...as usual.

Treant

(1,968 posts)
31. +14.
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 03:26 AM
Jul 2014

This is the number of people, including myself, that have quit smoking that I personally know. The list includes my mother, several cousins, family friends, and so on.

I'm not sure how to count random encounters on the street or in the grocery store (the CS personnel there know I vape, ask about it regularly, and asked for printed sheets from me for more information for those who wish to quit). I've not added those as I don't know the eventual outcomes.

My story? I smoked like a chimney for 25 years since my freshman year of college. NOTHING worked to quit. Chantix was...a nightmare. Patch? Maybe if I smoked it. Gum? Nope. Lozenge? Nope.

It still took me 2 months to transition to vaping, but it wasn't nearly as bad as I thought it would be (my mother switched over in a single afternoon--we all differ).

Cigarette free here since 3:00 PM on December 24th, 2012. I can no longer tolerate the smell, nor the scent of smoke on other people.

TreasonousBastard

(43,049 posts)
34. I used the gum years ago, but I'll throw in my support...
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 03:32 AM
Jul 2014

for e-cigs.

I enjoyed smoking, but enjoyed it too much-- up to three packs a day. As the price was pushing 10 bucks a pack around here it was financially as stupid as it was healthwise, so I quit.

If e-cigs were around then I would have used them.

And gone off on anyone who complained.

Unknown Beatle

(2,672 posts)
36. I quit smoking
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 04:07 AM
Jul 2014

on March 23rd of this year after 45 years. I tried nic patches and gum 10 years ago and it didn't help. I honestly thought I was going to be smoking cigarettes until I died. And then I tried e-cigarettes and a vapor pen with a KangerTech Protank 3 and I haven't smoked cigarettes since.

I also bought a shitload of FIN e-cigarettes dirt cheap. Here's a link for great tasting, long lasting but cheap FIN e-cigarettes. I think the sale will be over in 12 hours but they always put them back on sale in the near future.

Nightjock

(1,408 posts)
37. I tried almost everything
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 08:43 AM
Jul 2014

and they are the ONLY thing that worked.
Have not had a cigarette for over a year and I am never going back!
I turned two other lifelong smokers onto e cigs and it worked for them too.
I cannot praise them enough.

progressoid

(49,945 posts)
38. Question for E cig users...about weight loss.
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 09:18 AM
Jul 2014

My wife quit smoking cold turkey. 65 days now.

But it not easy and I've suggested e-cigs as an option but she want to stick it out. Thing is, she's also trying to lose weight and that struggle is not succeeding mostly because she's substiuting food for smokes.

Anyone have similar issues?

Autumn

(44,980 posts)
40. Have her try the vape pen with 0 nicotine juice . My last cig was in Jan, I went on 0 nicotine
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 09:24 AM
Jul 2014

in Feb and have not used the vape pen since the last of May, just because I never think of it or get the urge to use it. I keep it in my purse just in case. I gained no weight.

TheKentuckian

(25,020 posts)
78. Yup, and good odds she can hit up good flavors for the weak spots
Sat Jul 26, 2014, 01:55 AM
Jul 2014

A lot of empty calories when what we want is really the taste and you can while doing some thing with your hands, while putting something in your mouth, and get that familiar breathing exhaling.

Prophet 451

(9,796 posts)
70. Somewhat
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 07:47 PM
Jul 2014

My SO is trying to lose weight and vapies 0% nicotine liquids in sweet flavours to help her manage.

Autumn

(44,980 posts)
39. I quit with e cigs. It's a wonderful feeling and the easiest thing I ever did.
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 09:20 AM
Jul 2014

Smoke free and loving it.

IronLionZion

(45,380 posts)
41. My cousin used it to quit once his daughter was born
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 09:28 AM
Jul 2014

because he didn't want to smoke around her or to even have her smell it. It worked for him because he had the willpower and responsibility to gradually reduce the amount of nicotine used. If someone has low willpower, they can easily take too much nicotine too quickly and make their addiction worse.

It really depends on one's mentality.

Oilwellian

(12,647 posts)
43. It will be a year next month for my husband and I
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 09:32 AM
Jul 2014

We have three other family members who have also quit. The over the counter ecigs didn't satisfy and went back to smoking in short time. Was introduced to a more powerful battery and tank, and we've never looked back. We weaned ourselves off of the nicotine within six months, but still enjoy vaping a tobacco/coffee flavor juice. We were long-time smokers and this is the only product that has worked for us. It's the best invention I've seen in my lifetime and will save countless lives.

LisaLynne

(14,554 posts)
45. My brother ...
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 09:36 AM
Jul 2014

for some reason started smoking when he was 14. He has tried like crazy to quit for the past 20-some years. He tried everything -- the patch, cold turkey, hypnosis, therapy for stress, nicotine gum, everything. He has stopped with an e-cigarette. He is feeling WAY better physically, is shocked at how things actually smell and taste (ha ha), and, yeah, stopped hating himself. He would always get so depressed when he would fail to quit. Now, he's all proud of himself and it's a good thing.

meow2u3

(24,759 posts)
46. I've been smoke-free for 8 months, thanks to personal vaporizers
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 09:36 AM
Jul 2014

I couldn't have quit, or switched, any other way. Heaven knows I tried: gum, Wellbutrin, cold turkey didn't have any long-term results. Even my doctor said my lung functioning has vastly improved since I got off the coffin nails. I'm able to walk around the block, do housework, and even mow my lawn, all without getting out of breath.

E-liquid contains propylene glycol, which is used in asthma inhalers, and/or vegetable glycerin, both regarded by the FDA as GRAS (generally regarded as safe). The only immediate health risks are possible allergic reactions in some people and the fact that it has a tendency to dehydrate you, so drinking extra water is very important when you're vaping.

I don't understand why the PTB are scaring potential ex-smokers by claiming e-cigs are more dangerous than tobacco combustion, other than the threats to corporate profits. I also can't understand why liberal Democrats, who are supposed to be championing harm reduction, oppose vaping as tobacco harm reduction and want to regulate e-juice to the point of a de facto ban. All that will do are put vape shops out of business and drive vaping ex-smokers back to the cancer-causing, life-threatening tobacco.

BTW, vapers ought to check E-cigarette Forum out.

LexVegas

(6,030 posts)
48. My wife was a pack a day smoker.
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 09:39 AM
Jul 2014

Does the e-cigs now and does not smoke cigarettes at all any more. She has steadily decreased the concentration of nicotine, and now is at a tiny fraction of what a cigarette contains. Breathes better and has totally eliminated her morning smokers cough.

In my mind they are a life saver. I tried for years and years to get her to stop. Patches, pills, nothing else worked. As a bonus, no smoky clothes, car, hair, etc.

 

NCTraveler

(30,481 posts)
49. Yes. They helped.
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 09:40 AM
Jul 2014

The person they helped feels the same as I do. The government needs to get in and regulate the industry now.

 

Dawgs

(14,755 posts)
53. The only person I know that used them starting smoking again.
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 10:24 AM
Jul 2014

The only way I've ever heard of anyone successfully quitting, and I include myself, is to quit cold turkey.

I believe e-cigs keep the habit alive, which is one of the big things smokers should be trying to avoid.

etherealtruth

(22,165 posts)
57. Congrats to all that have quit
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 10:37 AM
Jul 2014

From the sidelines i have witnessed e-cigs help a lot of people quit or dramatically reduce their use.

I am at a loss as to why there are those so vehemently opposed to them ... of course no one should smoke, but this seems to be a fairly positive (at least better than lighting up) alternative.

I would happily sit next to someone "vaping' ... I would not be thrilled to sit in proximity to someone smoking (although in truth it really doesn't bother me much unless it is in a small and enclosed space

 

linuxman

(2,337 posts)
59. I know at least 10-12.
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 11:06 AM
Jul 2014

It amazes me how many moral-crusaders will fight this great advancement tooth and nail.

Skeletor

(11 posts)
60. Yes, it helped me...
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 11:06 AM
Jul 2014

I haven't had a real cigarette in several months. The thought of lighting up makes me ill.

Beaverhausen

(24,470 posts)
62. Helped my husband get off high blood pressure meds. He's been using eCigs for about 3 years
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 01:30 PM
Jul 2014

he smoked a pack a day.

Kermitt Gribble

(1,855 posts)
65. Completely off of tobacco products
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 06:58 PM
Jul 2014

and now spend about $40-50 per month on e-cigs. It is a good thing all around!

 

Bluenorthwest

(45,319 posts)
66. Just over a year for me, no cigarettes. I use a vape pen not an 'e-cig' but I did use disposables at
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 07:04 PM
Jul 2014

first. The pens are better, cheaper, cleaner and what I buy is organic and all that 'cause I live in Woodstock Nation.
I know several people who have entirely stopped smoking cigs using vape substitutes.

Holly_Hobby

(3,033 posts)
68. Since me and my husband started vaping,
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 07:23 PM
Jul 2014

we have not had even one cigarette. Not one, in a long, long time. Vaping works.

We're cutting our nicotine down to zero next month and will no longer be addicts.

politicat

(9,808 posts)
69. 11 members of a group home for schizophrenics.
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 07:40 PM
Jul 2014

People with schizophrenia have a high rate of chain smoking, because the combination of the nicotine and the MAOI produced by combustion act as a means of self-medication and helps control the more intrusive symptoms of the disease. Getting schizophrenics off cigarettes is like getting diabetics off insulin -- for years, we thought it couldn't be done. Approximately 90% of people with schizophrenia smoke.

But in 2009, Colorado went completely non-smoking indoors, including group homes. The members of that house had significant issues with hypothermia and serious respiratory illnesses that year, due to exposure and spending most of their hours outside. In 2010, we got them on vaporizers and adjusted their meds to compensate for the MAOI.

I am pleased to say that 3 years later, the entire house is still non-smoking. Most are on high doses of nicotine, and will be for life, but all are in much better shape.

If ecigs can work for schizophrenics, they will work for anyone, if the nicotine strength is sufficient and the hardware is of high quality.

Pastiche423

(15,406 posts)
71. Cigarette free after 39 years!
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 08:13 PM
Jul 2014

Purchased a kit in July 2010. Smoked my last analog October 15, 2010.

I, like another poster, did not want to quit. While sitting around w/some friends, two mentioned ecigs. It took them a while to convince me to try (they din't look or feel like a cig). We all purchased a kit at about the same time.

Of the three of us, I was the only one to quit smoking cigarettes.

After hearing the naysayers, some even on this board, I have come to the conclusion that it never was about their desire for others and their air to be healthy. It was and still is that they have to have something to bitch about.

That is specially true when what I am vaping contains 0 nicotine.

Texasgal

(17,038 posts)
72. My hair dresser was a heavy smoker
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 08:25 PM
Jul 2014

for over 25 years. Two pack a day habit. Started E-Cigs and started tapering off. She no longer smokes cigarettes. I am so happy for her!

SomethingFishy

(4,876 posts)
73. 8 months without a cigarette...
Fri Jul 25, 2014, 08:30 PM
Jul 2014

Thanks to Vapor..

Started with the Blu e-cigs but they were very expensive and not satisfying at all. I found myself smoking both those and the cigarettes. Then I went to a Vapor shop and talked to the guy there and he hooked me up with a couple batteries(Smok-Tech) and some juice. I haven't had a cigarette since.. Actually, I lit one up a few days ago, took two puffs and put it out and went back to my Vapor.

I can't recommend the switch more highly..

On Edit: Oh and I'm saving $200 a month!

 

rudolph the red

(666 posts)
76. I bought a vap kit in May and it has helped me cut way back,
Sat Jul 26, 2014, 01:21 AM
Jul 2014

from a pack a day to 4-5 real cigs a day. I really want to quit completely, but sometimes I just crave the real things so intensely, I guess I lack the necessary will power.

TheKentuckian

(25,020 posts)
77. No cigarettes for me since April 2013 and I think it will stick.
Sat Jul 26, 2014, 01:42 AM
Jul 2014

I've gotten to be a little battle tested having been through high stress times at work, stress at home, a break up, had to relocate quick and fast on a shoestring, illness in the family, death of said family member and as close to a father as I ever had, more stress at work, and now lost my job and the only cigarette I reached for is the MVP and the back up ego.

The only reason I'd go back is if I couldn't use an electric. Not a 100% that I'd smoke but I figure it is the most probable outcome, at least 78% straight to the dark side.

Now, I'll straight up tell you that I'm not in any conscious effort to quite the electric or even much on stepping down the nicotine but not smoking is a really, really big fucking deal.
Talking about no morning uglies (aka waking up and hacking your fucking lungs).
Talking about some running with the dog.

Talking about no random coughing, smelling fresh and clean is all the rage, shit.

Telling you about a different kind of addiction to the nicotine that is much less generally intense and with it moderated reactions to early withdrawal.

Spreading the good word about taking in way, way, way less chemicals and carcinogens.

Letting you know my canary in the coal mine, kitty no longer exists the room when I puff but she made an exit when I fired up a cigarette and gave the gas face on the way out.

Blood pressure down.

Teeth cleanings are quicker.

Non smoker friends asking why I'm going outside, "what are you going to do, make my house smell better?".

Fire risk reduced by orders of magnitude and hey I can't remember the last time I burnt a hole in shirt, pants, or car seat but I used to do all that shit from time to time.

No ashtray mouth!

No nicotine stains on my fingers (or anywhere else).

Hell, now that I've discovered distilled water and can cut the vegetable glycerin to a better viscosity the little frog in the throat is going away. My biggest downside is not being able to keep up with able lighter, never know when easy fire or light could be handy or even critical.

You get the right equipment (dont screw with the cig a likes, get you some damn power) and the right juice and it will save and increase the quality of your life. Though I do believe that some folks might long term be more likely to succeed if they first switch from commercial cigarettes to rolling their own just to get off all those chemicals, some of which I believe to also be addictive, that was my path.

Now, I might never make it to the promised land (off nicotine but then I never considered quitting cigarettes, I just like this better and it took) but the view from just this mountain top is astounding and the air is fresher than I have known in many years.


logosoco

(3,208 posts)
81. Yes, they helped me (2 1/2 years smoke free after 33 years
Sat Jul 26, 2014, 08:00 AM
Jul 2014

of smoking (and enjoying it, but I enjoy ecigs even more).
My husband quit as well when he saw what it did for me.

They are wonderful devices because I don't think I would have quit otherwise (because I really enjoyed smoking).

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