Lasers for smoking cessation cure

Relatively new to the market, smoking cessation laser procedures have been embroiled in controversy regarding their effectiveness. The owners and operators of clinics that offer procedures using lasers for smoking cessation claim their programs work and have helped many people quit smoking. However, many researchers, scientists and doctors disagree. They point to evidence collected during studies which show that using lasers as a smoking cessation aid are ineffective and results prove them comparable to those that have taken a placebo.

Is laser therapy an option for quitting smoking?

There are clinics nationwide which offer smokers a smoking cessation program that uses lasers. Neither these clinics nor the laser therapy method for smoking cessation have been evaluated or approved by the FDA. Their effectiveness is highly controversial and there have not been any studies conducted that conclude the effectiveness of this technique. The costs of smoking cessation laser therapy procedures vary depending on the number of sessions needed and location, but average approximately $400. Unfortunately, this procedure is not covered by insurance, however, many smoking c essation products can used as a deduction when preparing federal income taxes.

How does this procedure work?

The body naturally releases certain naturally occurring chemicals in the body, including endorphins, serotonin and dopamine. These neurotransmitters are released whenever they are needed by the body to maintain stability and balance. This process is interrupted with the introduction of nicotine into the body. Nicotine causes these chemicals to be released in higher amounts than they naturally occur in the body. Repeatedly maintaining a high level of these chemicals creates dependency and addiction. The body expects and desires these chemical to remain at the superficially high levels. This is why smokers experience powerful cravings when their nicotine levels drop too low. Smokers experience intense withdrawal symptoms when they try to quit smoking because the body is now accustomed to having a higher level of these chemicals. The body desires, or craves, a higher level of these che micals and when they are not provided; the smoker will experience a variety of intense and unpleasant withdrawal symptoms.

Laser therapy claims to work by accelerating the natural healing powers of the body. Through the use of low level laser technology, many people have been able to overcome drug and alcohol addictions as well as weight control. Now the same therapy is being expanded to treat nicotine addiction. Low level lasers use cold, pure highly charged laser light applied at specific points on the body to help smokers quit. Targeting addiction sites throughout the body, similar to acupuncture, the lasers stimulate the body and cause endorphins to be released. The endorphins block the addiction receptors and allow the body to end the nicotine addiction without the common withdrawal symptoms. The high charge is accepted into the body, which in turn, transforms it into energy. The body then uses that energy to accelerate the healing process. The lasers that are used during the laser thera py to quit smoking are very low level lasers and are classified by the FDA as a non significant risk device.

This produce is generally considered safe and it does not include the use of any medications. Low level laser therapy has been used throughout Europe and parts of Canada for nearly 20 years without any incidents of side effects. This procedure is not recommended for those who have active cancers, are undergoing any type of chemotherapy or radiation therapy, have blockages, tumors or for women who are pregnant. If you have any questions regarding the use of low level laser therapy, it is recommended that you speak to your doctor before starting treatment.

How long does it take to achieve smoke free status?

Most patients usually need at least three sessions to become and remain smoke free. Smokers typically have two sessions during the first week and then a follow up session a few weeks later. These sessions are fairly short, averaging roughly thirty minutes a piece. Smoking ces sation lasers typically do not carry the risk of any adverse side effects, other than the procedure not working for some persons.

Many companies that offer smoking cessation laser therapy programs also provide those who quit smoking with additional smoking cessation support. This includes counseling, acupuncture, message therapy and herbal remedies. Experts recommend that quitting smokers take the following steps when beginning the smoking cessation program.

• Smokers should clean out their house and car. Throw away items that tempt or remind them about smoking including cigarettes, lighters and ashtrays.
• Tell people that you are going to be starting a smoking cessation program.
• Greet you stop date on a positive note and try to keep a positive attitude throughout the day.

Using lasers for smoking cessation assistance may not work for everyone. Quitting smoking is very difficult to do and is often a life long challenge, which may be made easier by using smoking cessation lasers.

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Quit smoking help and aids

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