Smoking Cessation
While acupuncture and Oriental medicine may not make a person want to stop smoking, they may help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms in those who have decided to stop smoking. Acupuncture can help the body relax during this important time, helping reduce irritability and anxiety associated with smoking withdrawal.
Scientific studies indicate that certain inherited genes make some individuals more addicted to cigarettes that others. Specific genes also make certain smokers more at risk of developing lung and other types of cancer. It is known that smoking can lead to changes in gene expression; many of those changes are reversible once the individual stops smoking. One gene was found to lead to a nearly 100% chance of developing bladder cancer in those who smoke.
Smoking greatly increases your chances of getting several types of cancer. 87% of lung cancer deaths are linked to smoking. Smoking may also lead to cancer of the mouth, larynx, esophagus, bladder, stomach and kidney.
It is well known that smoking leads to a greater risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack and stroke. Smoking cessation almost completely reverses this risk. The benefits begin soon after quitting.
After a short time, smoking becomes a habit. The smoker gets used to placing the cigarette in the mouth when stressed. It becomes like an adult pacifier, calming the individual during stressful times. When trying to quit, it is helpful to replace this habit with healthy habits. Chewing gum may be a beneficial replacement. All the sense organs come into play when smoking. The smells, sounds, tastes, and sights connected with smoking can become triggers, which should be avoided, especially in the first few months after an individual quits.
Your treatment may include the following modalities:
Acupuncture- thin, sterile acupuncture needles will be inserted in various parts of the body and often the ear. Placement will vary between individuals.
Ear seeds - tiny herbal seeds are applied to the ear. The seeds are attached with an adhesive backing. They may remain on the ear for several days. The seeds help reduce the urge to smoke. They are gently rubbed several times a day, especially when cravings are strong. These cravings serve as a signal to use your chosen replacement (chewing gum).
Chinese Herbs- herbs may be prescribed during your treatment. The various herbs may help with calming anxiety, alleviating depression, and reduce cravings. The herbs are usually taken in tablet form. Occasionally, the prescription will be for a variety of loose herbs, which are simmered to form an herbal tea.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will it take me to quit?
This depends greatly on the individual. While certain genes make some individuals more likely to smoke, these same genes may also make it more difficult for those people to quit smoking. A person’s determination to quit is also a big factor. Even with acupuncture not everyone will stop smoking. Acupuncture only facilitates the process to make it somewhat easier for the person to deal with their cravings and symptoms during withdrawal. Acupuncture will not make you quit smoking. Your individual strengths, motivations, and support system will determine if you successfully stop smoking.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments may vary greatly between individuals. Some may need only weekly treatments for a couple of months. Others do better with two or three treatments per week until they are no longer craving or feeling anxious. Documented studies have found the first 72 hours are the most difficult period. Resources are available to help you 24-hours a day during this period. These same resources are available during other times of personal crisis when your urge to smoke is heightened.
How you feel during the withdrawal period will help determine the number and frequency of treatments. Using acupuncture and other techniques, your practitioner will attempt to provide some of the tools to help you through the hard times. Some of your anxiety may be relieved just knowing these services are available any time you feel you need them.
If smoking cessation is a concern of yours, alternative medicine at Desert Sands may benefit you. Working as a team, we can form a treatment plan that best meets your health needs. To begin your return to a healthier lifestyle, you may contact me at (520) 780-1230.
Jill Darban, L.Ac., Dipl.OM, MT, SH
Desert Sands Acupuncture- Tucson, AZ