Thanks, Mari. Yeah it is hard.

Tea and coffee both help, but coffee helps more. It's probably the caffeine and not sure I could pour the amount of tea down me that would do the trick.

I also just wanted coffee, after that first cup, for both taste and effect.

What to do... have as little coffee as possible, or none preferably, but I guess from time to time I will cave, or decide that the mood is worth a temporary worsening of the mouth thing. Conversely, perhaps the mouth burning/fizzing will help me stay away for another bit now.

waves

I am down to one mug of coffee in the mornings but may have 2 tomorrow because we need to drink it, don't want it to go bad.
Sorry for the symptoms.
bizi

Well, it won't go bad, quite, but might become less flavorful. I know what you are saying, though.

I am glad you are doing well with it, doesn't sound like you are craving it.

I am a coffee addict, well and true. Just have to do the best I can.

waves

Waves,

I would not think of it as a "cave" because that sounds like a loss of control.

Think of it as planned periodic license or dispensation or freedom.

Anyway, you essentially have a plan. And the plan will work.

I wish things were easier for you.

M

I am pretty much now drinking coffee indiscriminately, but still overall drinking less than I was a few months ago (it had really gotten out of hand). I believe there may be a strong comfort aspect to this at the moment. There are mood/energy issues at times, but not always.

The feeling better seems to come and go, even with the coffee on board. It's probably related to other things, in addition to the coffee. I believe coffee does make a difference, but perhaps not a night and day difference.

Anyway, I think I need to keep drinking coffee for now, and just be watchful.

I guess I will ask about antacids when our pharmacy reopens in September.

When inspiration strikes, I will have a no-coffee day and only have tea.

Things may change in a while.

dear waves,
if you are not seeing a benefit from not drinking the coffee than what is the incentive to not drink it?
bizi

It makes a difference but currently my need to drink it is winning out.