Hi All,
I started using nicotine with Juul in or around 2016, after only using nicotine occasionally (literally 5-10 times) throughout university. I work on wall street in an extremely demanding and high-stress environment. I started using the Juul as something to do to pass the time when I was traveling and as a medium for stress relief. Eventually, I felt terrible from vaping; sore throat, sporadic chest pain, etc.
Enter Zyn, the tobaccoless nicotine salt pouch that entered the US markets around 2-3 years ago. It seemed to be the perfect solution for me, as it seemed to cause no ancillary effects besides the desired nicotine buzz and stress-relief effects I was looking for. Eventually, this turned into a 6-7 pouch a day habit (appox. 36-42mg nicotine daily). In terms of overall health effects, I have noticed very little, aside from the occasional abrasions from the placement of the pouch. There is very little research on the long-term effects of the pouches, but I am starting to be concerned about the potential health issues associated with longer term use. I've tried to quit here and there, with little success. Typically, I start again by convincing myself that similar products (snus) have some extensive research and relatively good safety profiles as a nicotine delivery system.
Here's the issue. I've noticed that when I take a break for a week or two, I really have no cravings. Even in the early stages, I don't find myself craving the pouches. The main problem I've been having during the quit is the brain fog. It is unbearable. As I mentioned, my job is extremely demanding and requires constant attention, focus, and action. When I quit, I feel like I am in a constant state of detachment and wholly separated from my critical thinking facilities. In addition to that, I have been studying for a notoriously difficult industry charter and really cannot afford to be in that state for a prolonged period of time.
I wanted to reach out to this board and see if anyone has had a similar experience with "brain fog" as a withdrawal symptom. Has anyone found a way to combat it? Can anyone comment on the duration of the brain fog effect?
I have my quit date set for a week from today. Using that time to cut the frequency and dosage in half (3-4 pouches daily: 18-24mg of nicotine). Any tips would be greatly appreciated.
