Quitting Smoking

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How it works?


Our health improves with everyday we live a smoke-free life. The following table identifies the progression of our health after quitting smoking.


Time Effect
Within 8 hours of quittingCarbon monoxide levels drop, oxygen levels go back to normal
Within 48 hours of quittingThe chances of having a heart attack start decreasing, and the senses of taste and smell start improving
Within 72 hours of quittingBronchial tubes relax, which makes breathing easier, and lung capacity increases
Within 2 weeks to 3 months of quittingBlood circulation gets better, and lung function improves by as much as 30%
Within 6 months of quittingCoughing, tiredness, sinus congestion, and shortness of breath all improve
Within 1 year of quittingThe risk of heart attack due to smoking falls to half that of someone who sill smokes
Within 10 years of quittingThe risk of dying from lung cancer falls to half that of someone who still smokes
Within 15 years of quittingThe risk of dying from a heart attack becomes the same as for someone who has never smoked

Good Reasons for Quitting:


When your body is addicted to nicotine and is then deprived, you may experience many withdrawal symptoms. The following table indicates all the symptoms you may experience and suggests many tips to overcome the symptoms. Following these tips may help prevent setbacks.


Symptoms Tips
Increased Appetite • Eat balanced meals
• Drink plenty of water
• Snack on healthy, low fat foods
Craving for nicotine • Drink a glass of water
• Eat a healthy snack
• Chew gum
• Take a walk
• Distract yourself until it passes
• Avoid your smoking triggers
Depression • Use positive self-talk
• See the doctor if depression is intense and will not go away
• Speak to friends or family
Restlessness • Exercise
• Use relaxation techniques
• Take a walk
Poor Concentration • Avoid additional stress
• Take regular work breaks
• Go for a brisk walk
• Split bigger projects into smaller tasks
Irritability/aggression • Go for a walk
• Use relaxation techniques
• Take deep breaths
Sleep Disturbance • Take a hot bath or do relaxation exercises before bed
• Avoid caffeine
• Do not nap during the day
Lightheadedness • Sit or lie down until it passes

Tips to Help you Quit Smoking:


Information obtained from Health Canada and the Canadian Cancer Society