Quit Smoking

Quit Smoking with Acupuncture

Nicotine is a highly addictive drug found in tobacco and is a major component of cigarette smoke. This drug stimulates the brain reward system activated during pleasurable activities in a manner similar to that of most other addictive drugs. People smoke to feed their nicotine addiction but simultaneously inhale hundreds of carcinogens, noxious gases, and chemical additives that are a part of cigarette smoke. These components are responsible for the multiple health consequences of smoking.

Smoking cessation often causes intense withdrawal symptoms, primarily a craving for cigarettes but also anxiety, depression (mostly mild, sometimes major), inability to concentrate, irritability, restlessness, insomnia, drowsiness, impatience, hunger, tremor, sweating, dizziness, headaches, and digestive disturbances. These symptoms are worst in the 1st wk and subside within 3 to 4 wk, but many patients resume smoking as symptoms peak. An average weight gain of 4 to 5 kg is common and is another reason for recidivism. Smokers with ulcerative colitis often experience an exacerbation soon after quitting.
Acupuncture is an alternative approach to smoking cessation.
Acupuncture is a non-medical treatment therapy that does not include any use of chemical or herbal medications.

It is estimated that most smokers will attempt to quit 2 or 3 times, or more, before finally kicking the habit. When conventional methods to quit smoking, such as nicotine gum or patches, have failed, smokers often look outside the mainstream and turn to alternative medicine. Acupuncture is not a panacea or a magic cure in the treatment of any addiction, including smoking. But, acupuncture is effective in making it easier to quit and remain smoke-free. If you are highly motivated and ready to quit, acupuncture can empower you to take control and begin a healthy and smoke-free life!
The acupuncture treatments will focus on the cravings, the irritability, and the restlessness that people commonly complain about when they quit. It will also help in relaxation and detoxification. Each patient is treated according to his or her specific and unique TCM diagnosis. Usually a combination of body acupuncture points and points on the ear are used that are believed to influence the organs and energetic pathways associated with smoking.

The length, number and frequency of treatments will vary. Typical treatments last from five to 30 minutes, with the patient being treated one or two times a week. Some symptoms are relieved after the first treatment, while more severe or chronic ailments often require multiple treatments. A stop smoking program will often consist of 4-6 initial treatments scheduled in the first few weeks followed by monthly treatments for four to six months.

Qi in Motion Acupuncture

Viktor Nedelchev R.Ac MD(Bulgaria)