Guide to Laser Quit Smoking Therapy: Effective Treatment for Nicotine Addiction
Smoking cessation is a difficult journey, and those who have tried to quit know how hard it can be to break the addiction. However, many methods have been used to help people stop smoking, from nicotine replacement therapy to medications, counselling, and behaviour modification. It is a relatively new method that has gained in popularity in recent years.
Low-level laser therapy uses laser light to stimulate specific acupuncture points in the ears, hands, and wrists. The aim is to reduce the desire to smoke, eliminate nicotine cravings, and ease withdrawal symptoms. The procedure is non-invasive, painless, and has no known side effects, making it an attractive alternative to traditional smoking cessation methods.
What is Laser Quit Smoking?
It is a holistic approach involving low-level laser therapy to stimulate specific acupuncture points in the body. The therapy is based on the principles of acupuncture, which consists of using needles to promote particular points on the body to relieve pain or treat various health conditions. In laser therapy, the same principles apply, but instead of needles, laser light is used to stimulate the acupuncture points.
The treatment is quick, painless, and non-invasive. The patient sits comfortably in a chair while the therapist places the laser on specific acupuncture points in the ears, hands, and wrists. The laser emits a low-level light that stimulates the body’s natural healing processes and helps to reduce nicotine cravings, eliminate withdrawal symptoms, and promote relaxation.
How Does Laser Quit Smoking Work?
The therapy works by stimulating specific acupuncture points in the body, which helps to release endorphins, the body’s natural pain relievers. Endorphins are neurotransmitters that help regulate mood and relieve pain and are released during exercise, sex, and other pleasurable activities. It works by stimulating the release of endorphins in the body, which helps to reduce stress, anxiety, and the desire to smoke.
In addition to stimulating endorphins, laser therapy also helps to increase the metabolic rate, which can aid in weight loss and help reduce the risk of weight gain after quitting smoking. The treatment also helps to improve circulation, reduce stress levels, and promote relaxation, which can help to reduce the risk of stress-related health problems.
Advantages of Laser Quit Smoking
This therapy offers several advantages over traditional smoking cessation methods.
Firstly, it is a safe and non-invasive treatment with no known side effects. The therapy is painless and quick, and patients can resume their normal activities of daily living immediately after treatment.
Secondly, it offers both immediate and long-term benefits. Patients typically experience reduced nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms after the first treatment. The desire to smoke decreases and withdrawal symptoms become less severe.
Thirdly, laser therapy helps to eliminate withdrawal symptoms, reducing the risk of relapse. Withdrawal symptoms are often the main reason people fail, and laser therapy helps address this issue by reducing the severity of withdrawal symptoms and eliminating cravings.
Who Can Benefit from Laser Quit Smoking?
It is suitable for most people who want to stop smoking. Ideal candidates are those who strongly desire to quit, are committed to the process, and are willing to make lifestyle changes to support their efforts.
However, there are some precautions and contraindications to consider. For example, pregnant women, people with epilepsy, or those with a pacemaker should avoid laser therapy. Additionally, people with mental health issues, substance use disorders, or other health conditions should consult their physicians before starting this therapy. Finally, it is essential to note that it is not a substitute for medical treatment or professional guidance for psychological issues.
Laser Quit Smoking vs Other Smoking Cessation Methods
Laser quit smoking is a relatively new and alternative approach to quitting smoking. Therefore, comparing it with other traditional smoking cessation methods, such as nicotine replacement therapies, medications, or behavioural therapy, is natural. Here are some comparisons:
Efficacy and Success Rates:
A meta-analysis of 16 randomized control trials involving over 2,000 participants concluded that laser therapy significantly reduced the number of cigarettes smoked and the severity of nicotine withdrawal symptoms compared to a placebo or sham laser therapy. It is important to know that the success rates of smoking cessation methods vary depending on individual circumstances, including motivation, level of addiction, and personal support.
Advantages and Disadvantages:
One of the main advantages of laser therapy is that it is a non-invasive and painless procedure with few side effects. Additionally, it can provide immediate relief from nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier to stop smoking. Laser therapy can also be used as a complementary approach alongside other smoking cessation methods. However, the effectiveness of the therapy may vary depending on the individual, and it may require multiple sessions, which can be costly.
What to Expect During Laser Quit Smoking Treatment?
Before the first treatment, clients should be prepared to undergo an initial consultation. During the consultation, the provider will discuss the client’s medical history and smoking habits, evaluate the level of nicotine addiction, and answer any questions about the procedure. The provider may also suggest additional support, such as counselling or behaviour modification deals.
The actual treatment itself usually lasts between 30 minutes to an hour. The client sits comfortably in a chair while the laser therapist directs the laser light to specific acupuncture points on the face, ears, wrists, and hands. The laser light stimulates the release of endorphins and other neurotransmitters, which can help reduce nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
How Many Treatments are Desirable?
The number of laser treatments required to stop smoking may vary depending on individual circumstances, including the level of nicotine addiction and the number of cigarettes smoked daily. However, most laser centres recommend between one to three sessions, with additional treatments if required. The sessions are usually scheduled within a few days of each other, with a follow-up appointment a few months after the initial treatment.
Conclusion
Laser quit smoking therapy is a natural, non-invasive, and painless alternative to quitting smoking that has gained popularity recently. Low-level laser therapy stimulates specific acupuncture points on the face, ears, wrists, and hands, releasing endorphins and reducing nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms. While the success rate may vary depending on individual circumstances, research has shown that it can be an effective smoking cessation method.
Before considering this treatment, it is important to consult with a therapist to determine if it is the right choice for you. While there are few side effects associated with lit, pregnant women, people with epilepsy, or those with a pacemaker should avoid it. Additionally, people with mental health issues, substance use disorders, or other health conditions should consult their physicians before starting the treatment.
It’s worth noting that it should not replace seeking medical assistance for underlying health issues or addictions.
Instead, it can be used as an additional tool for smoking cessation. Still, a holistic approach that includes behaviour modification, support from family and friends, and a healthy lifestyle is essential for long-term success.
Regarding cost, insurance companies generally do not cover this treatment, and clients should be prepared to pay out-of-pocket. The amount of laser treatments required depends on the person and the intensity of their addiction. However, many laser quit smoking programs provide bundles that consist of several sessions.
It is also common for clients to experience withdrawal symptoms such as cravings and irritability during the first few days after their initial treatment. However, it has been shown to reduce these symptoms significantly, and many people can quit after just one or two sessions.
Overall, laser quit smoking is a safe and effective treatment option for those looking to stop smoking. While it may not work for everyone, the high success rates and immediate benefits make it a viable alternative to traditional smoking cessation methods. With the help of a qualified laser therapist, clients can enjoy a smoke-free lifestyle and improve their overall health and well-being.
Q&A
Is laser therapy effective for quitting smoking?
Yes, laser is effective in helping people stop smoking. It works by stimulating specific acupuncture points in the body, which can help reduce nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It can also help increase endorphin levels, improving mood and reducing stress levels.
How many laser treatments are needed to quit smoking?
The required number of laser treatments may differ based on individual factors and the severity of the addiction. However, most programs offer packages that include multiple sessions. Generally, clients can expect to receive one to three treatments to stop smoking.
What happens if you smoke after laser therapy?
While laser therapy can significantly reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, it is still possible to smoke after treatment. However, many people report a sudden drop in their desire to smoke and find resisting easier. It is important to remember that it is not a magic solution and requires a commitment to quit.
What is laser acupuncture for quitting smoking?
Laser acupuncture for quitting smoking is a non-invasive treatment that uses low-level laser therapy to stimulate specific acupuncture points in the body. These points help to reduce nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms and increase endorphin levels.
Does quitting smoking make anxiety and worry worse?
It is common for some people to experience increased anxiety and worry after quitting smoking. This is due to the withdrawal of nicotine, which can affect neurotransmitters in the brain that regulate mood. However, these symptoms are usually temporary and can be managed with support from family and friends, relaxation techniques and a healthy lifestyle.
How can smoking be quit quickly?
Quitting smoking is a unique and personal journey that demands dedication and determination; hence, there is no universal solution or shortcut to achieve it.
However, laser quitting smoking is an effective and fast method for many people. Additionally, combining laser with behaviour modification, support from family and friends, and a healthy lifestyle can help increase the chances of success.
Efficacy of Laser Auricular Acupuncture for Smoking Cessation
Results
“There was a significant reduction in urinary cotinine levels and nicotine dependence and significant improvement in behaviour and physical effects related to smoking in all groups post-intervention” (P <0.05).
Conclusion
“Laser auricular acupuncture alone and in combination with psychological counselling can reduce nicotine dependence among smokers.”