Total Health Acupuncture Center San Diego Acupuncture

Stop Smoking

Why should I quit smoking?

The dangers associated with smoking, such as cancer, heart disease and glaucoma are reasons people need to quit. Many people still find it difficult to do. This may be due to severe withdrawal symptoms. Acupuncture works to remove the need for nicotine from the Liver and curb those familiar habits of smoking.

How does smoking impact your body?

What happens when you smoke is, nicotine enters your lungs and your blood stream. Nicotine is metabolized by your liver. After years of smoking your liver goes into a panic when you decide to quit, and you say, "This is it. No more cigarettes." The liver sends messages to your autonomic nervous system resulting in a nervous withdrawal reaction. Your heart beat speeds up, you’re irritable, and you may feel shaky. Wouldn’t you like to get over these symptoms and move on to a healthier you without caving in to your liver’s need for nicotine?

How does Acupuncture stop smoking?

To remove this addiction we must take away the liver’s memory of nicotine. This is accomplished by treating the outer ear with tiny acupuncture pins. The ear has connections to your liver, lungs, mouth, pancreas, fingers, and hands. Neural messages are sent through these points via the brain to the corresponding organs. There is a slight tingling sensation but no pain. To enhance the treatment a small tack may be placed on your ear and left for two days.

What should I expect from Acupuncture?

You leave the office feeling calm and relaxed. Patients usually won’t crave food since we also treat the mouth and pancreas point. Within a few hours your body begins to heal itself. The carbon monoxide and nicotine in your system rapidly disappears. Your heart and lungs begin to repair the damage caused by smoking. Your sense of taste and smell will return. Your smoker’s hack will disappear and your digestion will return to normal. You will climb a flight of stairs without being winded. Best of all, you will feel alive, clear headed, full of energy, and breathing easier.
Think of all the money you’ll save not buying cigarettes!!

Some helpful hints:

1. Start a moderate exercise program
2. Drink lots of fluids.
3. Get some rest and avoid fatigue.
4. Throw away any cigarettes, ash trays, lighters, and matches
at home and in your car.
5. Have your teeth cleaned and whitened by your dentist.
6. Put the money you saved away for a trip.
7. Keep busy.
8. Go to the movies, out for dinner, or a long walk.
9. Buy yourself a treat or do something to celebrate.
10. Avoid drinking alcohol especially before dinner.
11. Avoid situations you strongly associate with smoking.
12. Pay extra attention to your appearance.
13. Wash your hands if a desire for a cigarette occurs.

We are glad you have made a healthy choice! We are happy to help you along the way. Congratulations!

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