Smoking and Oral Cancer - A Quick Check You Can Do For Yourself

By Dr Jenny Tylee

Smoking increases the risk of developing all cancers associated with the lips, tongue, mouth, larynx, and oesophagus. The risk of these cancers increases with the number of cigarettes, pipes or cigars smoked. Heavy smokers have laryngeal cancer mortality risks 20 to 30 times greater than non-smokers.

It is well documented that smoking has a direct carcinogenic effect on the epithelial cells of the oral mucous membranes. 95% of all oral cancers can be attributes to lifestyle factors, in particular smoking and alcohol consumption. The most common place for these cancers to occur is on the tongue (20%). Other common areas are the gums (18%), floor of the mouth (12%) and the lips (11%). Pre-cancers also occur 6 times more frequently in smokers than non-smokers.

Those who smoke and drink heavily are at increased risk because alcohol increases the permeability of the oral mucous membranes which is thought to enhance the carcinogenic effect of tobacco based products. Smokers who drink heavily have 6-15 times the risk of developing oral cancer than non-smokers/drinkers. Smokers who do not use alcohol still have a 2- to 4-fold increase in the risk. For both genders combined, cancer of the mouth and pharynx is the sixth most common type of cancer overall in the world.

One of the problems associated with oral cancers is that they often go undiagnosed because the initial signs are painless. Often the smoker will find other reasons for the changes, such as, they must have burnt their lips or they have been biting their lips. There is often an element of fear associated with consulting a health professional. 50% of people die from oral cancers because they have seen a health professional too late.

What to Look For

There are five main symptoms associated with oral cancers:

• Mouth ulcers that don't heal - just because you have had something for a long time doesn't mean that it is harmless. I recall one patient who stated that he'd had the lesion on his lips for over 20 years and he didn't think it was anything to worry about because he'd had it for so long - when he finally did have it checked into it was too late.
• A whitish or reddish patch anywhere in the mouth - this can be painless.
• Swelling under the neck or chin.
• Difficulty chewing, swallowing or talking.
• A persistent feeling that something is caught in the throat.

Use the following steps as a guide for checking your oral cavity.

Use a well light mirror to perform the check.

1. The neck - with your head tilted backward look for any lumps or masses. Then try to feel both sides of your neck and under your jaw line.

2. Lips - feel the inside and outside of your lips using your thumb and forefinger. Look carefully at the area as you do this.

3. Gums - with your lips pulled away so that you can see, examine all of the gums.

4. Cheeks - use your thumb and forefinger to pull the cheeks away from your teeth so that you can see them clearly.

5. Palate - open wide so that you can see the roof of your mouth and the back of your throat.

6. Tongue - with a tissue of piece of gauze in your hand take your tongue and pull it to the right and left so that you can see it clearly - examine each surface. Raise the tip of the tongue to the roof of your mouth and check the floor of your mouth and the underside of the tongue.

If you find anything and you're not sure whether it is a problem, have it checked out by your medical practitioner.

Oral cancers are closely related to the habits of smoking and drinking alcohol. These cancers can be devastating and often go undiagnosed. If you are or have been a smoker, check your oral cavity for changes. Changes you do find should be seen by a health professional. The best thing you can do to reduce your risk of developing oral cancers is to quit smoking. Join a quit smoking program and get the support and assistance you need to become smoke free for good.

Dr Jenny Tylee is an experienced health professional who is passionate about health and wellbeing. She believes that health is not just absence of disease and seeks to actively promote vitality and wellness through empowering others. She encourages people to improve their health by quit smoking, cleansing their body, taking essential vitamin and mineral supplement and many other methods, including herbal remedies.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dr_Jenny_Tylee

How Smoking is Injurious to Health

By Dr. Savitha Suri Platinum Quality Author"

It is known to everyone that cigarette smoking is harmful and addictive. But very few know the risks of cigarette addiction. Smoking inflicts body with many irreversible damages and reduces the human life span by 25 years.

Effects of Smoking on Body:

Heart: Smoking is the biggest risk factor for all heart diseases. It accelerates the process of fat deposition in the inner walls of arteries (atherosclerosis). It increases blood pressure and heart rate. Not only these, smoking increases tendency for the blood to clot. It reduces the capacity of a person to exercise. (Exercises always keep heart healthy).

Lungs: Smoking destroys small hairs present in upper parts of airways. In normal persons these hairs protect lungs from germs, dust and other harmful particles. When this natural cleaning system is damaged germs, dust, smoke and other harmful chemicals enter lungs causing infection, cough and lung cancer. The air sacs of lungs (alveoli) get permanently damaged causing difficulty in breathing.

Digestive system: Smoking causes heart burn ,delays healing of peptic ulcers, increases risk of crohn's disease and formation of gall stones. It affects liver and increases chances of stomach cancer.

Legs: Smoking affects blood vessels of legs causing chronic pain in legs. This may further progress to cause gangrene of toes or feet.

Eyes: The sensitive blood vessels of eye are easily damaged by smoking. This causes blood shot appearance of eyes and itching. In heavy smokers it may lead to degeneration and loss of eyesight. Smokers are at an increased risk of cataracts.

Skin : Due to smoking the skin is deprived of oxygen and it loses its texture. An average smoker looks 5 years older than his healthy non smoking counterparts. The skin loses its healthy glow and takes on a yellowish-gray cast. The more cigarettes smoked, the worse skin will look. Wrinkles start appearing very quickly as smoking affects elastic tissues of skin.

Bones: It accelerates the process of osteoporosis

Cancer: Smoking causes cancer of lungs, larynx, oral cavity, pharynx, oesophagus and bladder. Tobacco smoke contains more than 60 substances which cause cancer. 87% lung cancer death occurs due to smoking.

Reproductive system: Smoking reduces fertility in both men and women.

In women: Smoking imbalances estrogen hormone in women. It causes dryness of vagina and reduces blood flow to genital organs. Women who smoke can get diseases of fallopian tubes and their egg production is affected. Smoking can cause abortion. It accelerates aging process and can cause early menopause.

The growth of baby retards when mother smokes in pregnancy. It affects the brain development of baby and reduces IQ. This happens even when mother is a passive smoker. The chances of miscarriage, premature birth and fetal death increase.

In men: Smoking impairs erections and can become a reason for erectile dysfunction. It affects semen and also reduces sperm count and impairs sperm motility. But these are reversed after stopping smoking.

Hence quit smoking. Quitting smoking has immediate as well as long-term benefits for you and your loved ones

This article is copy righted. The author Dr. Savitha Suri is an Ayurvedic Physician and web master of Ayurveda help through ayurveda remedies Read complete article at http://www.ayurhelp.com/articles/smoking_injurious.htm

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dr._Savitha_Suri

Quit Smoking by Remembering How You Started

By George Wischler"

In the beginning, there was an idea. An idea that somehow lighting up and smoking that first cigarette would make something 'better' for us. We would feel better - more relaxed in a tough situation. We'd have more friends, because it was a symbol that we were 'like them'. Or our 'status' would increase - we would appear older and more mature, more powerful, worthy of more respect, look 'tougher'.

Then time passed. The reasons we had for starting were slowly erased by changes in our lives. In some cases, they may have even reversed. Our minds and bodies aged, and we became less able to cope with health issues. New, more mature friends may be repelled by the results of cigarette smoke. And we became a slave to the constant fight or flight demands of nicotine on our bodies. Instead of relieving anxiety, we're forced to smoke on a regular basis or else we experience withdrawal. It now serves as a mere temporary distraction from negative life events.

And from the point we're at now, we can see the damage clearly. Cigarettes have influenced our decisions. They make us less able to think clearly about problems. They stall us, so we can not resolve our issues before they grow out of control.

And in reality, none of this is our fault. Finding fault in ourselves for these occurrences benefits no one. It doesn't help us, it doesn't help people around us, it only hurts. The fault lies within the system. The faceless corporations which deduce only an increase in their wealth, nothing more than numbers, from millions of precious innocent lives. These machines have no compassion, no empathy, no concern for health or quality of living. Their singular concern is for their own expansion, greed is their only drive.

But there is always hope - you need but believe it. We can free ourselves from this hellacious matrimony. See further, and realize in quitting we can become a symbol of freedom for those around us. Some may not be so receptive, at first, but gradually they will learn from witnessing your progression and accomplishments. The more of us who wake up, the better your reality, our reality can become.

Quit Smoking and Change Your Reality Today at http://www.smokingrevealed.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=George_Wischler

Acupuncture to Quit Smoking - Does it Work?

By George Sanchez"

Acupuncture is one of the many methods to quit smoking in use today. It works by applying needles to certain parts of the body in order to eliminate the desire to smoke. These needles are inserted by a trained practitioner and the process is completely painless. Acupuncture is gaining popularity as a way to give up smoking and many people claim to have good results with it.

Acupuncture comes from China, where it is said to have been invented more than 3000 years ago. It is one of the most important parts of traditional Chinese medicine and other Asian healing traditions. It is used as a cure for all kinds of diseases and conditions. In Chinese medicine acupuncture is usually just a part of a variety of treatments. Other techniques include herbs, bodywork and lifestyle changes.

To treat smoking addiction acupuncturists will mostly target the lungs, airways and mouth.While some scientist say that acupuncture is has never been proven to work, there exists a lot of anecdotal evidence from people all over the world who say that this method cured them, including lots of smokers. It is especially effective against cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

People are always looking for the easiest way to give up smoking. While there is probably no such thing, based on the feedback of people who have tried it acupuncture may be a method that is at least worth trying. You should remember that it will not magically make your smoking habit disappear. You will still need some willpower and determination to succeed.

For more information on quitting smoking and quit smoking methods visit YourStopSmokingGuide.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=George_Sanchez

The Mother of All Stop Smoking Programs - YOGA!

Yes, it is not exaggerating to say that the boss of all stop smoking programs is the Indian origin practice of bodily postures - a set of which together is popularly known as 'Yoga'. Its relevance to every aspect in a common man's life and its effectiveness in gifting the doer what he started it for has rolled in plenty of people from all around the globe into it.

And the ball is rolling and only getting bigger by day. There will also be a yoga instruction centre in your city if you find the right way to find it. You will be told over there, first thing, that Yoga, when followed regularly and in the right way, is the most rewarding stop smoking program. It works above and over all stop smoking medications, stop smoking aids, stop smoking hypnosis, stop smoking pills and stop smoking drugs! And the good news is that you, looking frantically for a stop smoking program, need not learn by rote the hundreds of postures (known as Aasanas in Sanskrit language) to just quit this one deadly consumption. There exists in Yoga, a particular set of Aasana, called the Pranayama, only learning and practising which suffices.

The results of this miraculous science are best reaped when practised early in the morning (even before sunrise if possible) after brushing the teeth and having a glass of water. However, they can be performed whenever an urge becomes stronger. Two types of pranayamas exist and are listed below. They can all be comfortably practised at home if you do not wish to attend classes. Perform them one after the other, slowly in the beginning then picking up pace as days pile up.

Kapalabhati: Sit in a meditative pose and keep the spine, neck and head straight. Close the eyes and keep the palms resting on the knees. Then, while exhaling contract the abdominal muscles sharply, raising the diaphragm and forcing the air out of the lungs. Inhalation should be passive and silent, while exhalation forceful, brief and audible. Gradually increase the speed. Return to normal position slowly.

Bhastrika: This is the climax part of the stop smoking program. Squat on the floor, straighten the back and close the eyes. Close the right nostril with the right thumb and exhale. Immediately inhale through the left nostril. Then close the left nostril, exhale and inhale through the right. Repeat alternatively, and slowly return to initial speed.The above are not only useful as effective stop smoking program, but have been scientifically proven for curing several diseases like bronchitis, tension, depression, insomnia and high blood pressure.

Robert Tracey is an ex smoker who has his life back. He runs an informational website that provides free unbiast information and reviews on Nicocure, a stop smoking program that guarantees you will stop smoking. Check out Robert's site and find out how to claim your 2 free bottles of Nicocure Pills, free lifetime membership to the Nicocure stop smoking club and a Stop Smoking Relaxation Audio MP3 Download. This seems to be a time limited offer so to take advantage of this cool stuff and more. Make sure you check out Robert's site at http://www.bestnicocurereview.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_O_Tracey

Methods to Stop Smoking - Which is the Best?

Methods to Stop Smoking - Which is the Best?: "There are so many methods to stop smoking, some of them expensive. Which is really the best for you? Find out more in this article.

If you're reading this article then I would say that you are approaching your quitting in a logical manner. You want to know the methods to stop smoking and figure out which is the best for you. Let's do a quick run through of the most common methods.

Willpower

Willpower is where most smokers start their quitting 'career'. After all, it's free and doesn't cost you anything! How long have you lasted then? I know that when I was a smoker, I could barely last a day or two without cigarettes. I needed them as badly as I needed food, probably more so.

The bad news, although you probably knew it anyway, is that hardly anyone quits in the long term (talking years rather than days) using willpower alone. If we're talking about not smoking for the rest of their life and never having a relapse then you're looking at around a 1% success rate. Pretty poor, really.

Hypnosis

More and more people are turning to hypnosis to cure their smoking addiction. Turn the clock back 20 years and it was not very common. Most people did not trust anyone with 'their minds'. These days, the profession has a lot more credibility and more and more people are using hypnosis.

Not just that, but thanks to the internet, you can even take your hypnosis sessions in the comfort of your own home. Just surf for one of the many hypnosis sites, use your credit card and within a minute you can be listening to an mp3 hypnosis session. However, ask any hypnotist and they will tell you that, ideally, they need to be able to read your response and adjust the session accordingly.

Does it work? Sadly no. I never took hypnosis myself but the studies say that it does not. For instance, The Cochrane Collaboration (an international not-for-profit organization) did a study into this and could not prove that hypnosis had a greater effect on 6 month quit rates than any other or no treatment. If I were you, I'd keep those hundreds of dollars that it would cost you and buy your family some presents instead!

Stop Smoking Magnets

Magnets are a member of the methods to stop smoking as lasers, acupuncture and acupressure. Basically, you wear them on the ear and they are supposed to reduce cravings for cigarettes so that you can more easily quit. The idea is one of Eastern philosophy, being that acupressure points are stimulated to produce endorphins and these are what make you feel more calm and have less cravings.

The verdict? Although I'm sure that your local practitioner of Eastern medicine will disagree with me, the facts are that this is yet another method which might work for a few days but does not work in the long term.

What Does Work?

Used alone, most of these methods to stop smoking are pretty much useless. However, using many of these therapies together and combining with other drugs such as anti-depressants, as well as making sure you have a good support structure will increase your chances of quitting. There are also some other methods that are used by a large minority that claim to address the underlying addiction rather than just the symptoms (cravings) like most other cures.

Discover more methods to stop smoking, tips and advice - all written by an ex-smoker of 8 years. Get the knowledge that you need today, at http://www.QuitSmokingAdvisory.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?exp

Best Way to Quit Smoking - There is Only One Way to Free Yourself From Addiction

There is only one real way to quit smoking. Your doctor, the government and many others will try to convince you otherwise but they are wrong. Find out more in this article.

Cigarette smoking is the biggest global health problem with approximately one third of adults hooked, as well as many children too. It costs the average smoker about 15 years of his life compared to a non-smoker. What way out of this is there? What is the best way to quit smoking?

Traditional Methods

Traditional methods to quit smoking number many, after all - this is a multi-billion dollar industry we are talking about. It only makes sense for big business and the government to work together to keep pushing these worthless cures to people so that they keep flipping back and forth between quit cigarettes on the one hand and smoking aids like nicotine patches, on the other.

Nicotine products do not work because they only substitute cigarettes and you are still addicted. You can try to cut down on nicotine products and then give up but it's hardly any different to cutting down on cigarettes alone and you sure know how successful that is, right?

Even hypnotherapy is a worthless method. Hypnosis can help a lot of people, for instance, people who have a fear of flying or a fear of social situations. But when it comes to smoking, hypnosis is useless. You can tell someone that they have super willpower and no more cravings and they may stop smoking there and then. But fast forward 6 months and nearly all hypnosis clients will start smoking again because the desire for a cigarette has returned. They simply did not believe the hypnotist.

And don't even get me started on newer methods like the laser. This is just laser manufacturers trying to make a quick buck by establishing a new market. Ever heard the phrase "a good sales man can sell a refrigerator to an eskimo?". Well, these lasers are very similar. The idea goes that you shine a laser on the body, "endorphins" are released and the person has less cravings. Fast forward 6 months and, once again, most people have started to smoke again.

Don't Believe Me?

That's OK. Most people are skeptical of what I have to say, especially smokers. I would ask you to go to Google Scholar search engine and do a search on research papers for smoking cessation methods. Make sure that you only look at the independent research and you'll come to the same conclusions.

Is There A Way Out?

There most certainly is. 8 years ago I stumbled across the best method there is, the most perfect method. Since then I have been totally smoke free. So what is the method?

The only way to quit smoking is to truly understand your addiction. Think about it - all the traditional methods do is to try to cure the symptom of an addiction, the cravings. Do you really want to be on pills, patches, hypnosis, lasers etc. for the rest of your life? That's like exchanging one addiction for another! Do any of these methods truly look at addiction, see what makes it tick, see how it works on people's minds and then cure them of it? No.

The method I used is the exact opposite. It goes straight for the root cause of addiction. And by cracking the addiction, you can stop smoking without willpower and without cravings.

By the way, I'm not the only person who has ever stopped using this method. Thousands of people around the world have stopped this way. But big business and the government do not like their revenues from taxes and nicotine products squashed so they ignore it.

Joe White is an ordinary guy who just lucked upon the secret to quitting smoking. If you want to find out more about this method, visit http://www.QuitSmokingWithJoe.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joe_White

An Overview Of Three Popular Stop Smoking Programs - Which Stop Smoking Program Is Right For You?

Hi, I would now like to share with you an Overview Of Three Popular Stop Smoking Programs - Which Stop Smoking Program Is Right For You? by Ava Alderman

Stop Smoking Program #1: CigArrest:
CigArrest is a homeopathic system containing nicotine-free tablets, gum, vitamins, and exercise and behavior management information and encouragement - all of which are designed to lesson cravings and encourage positive and diversionary thinking. The active ingredients in the vitamins and tablets are: Lobelia inflata, Cinchona officinalis, Daphne indica, Plantago major, Calcarea phosphorica, and Nux vomica. These homoeopathic ingredients are supposed to relieve the cravings, nervous tensions, and irritability that go hand in hand with quitting smoking. None of the items contain nicotine, but the company claims that the products taken together with the behavior modification program are so effective that nicotine is not needed and is really just a crutch that holds a smoker back from quitting smoking. CigArrest does not list the costs of the program on their website, but they do offer 30 days of all products free and a 30 day money back guarantee after the 30 day trial - basically giving you 60 days to try the product free. They also offer a free newsletter on their website. (See bio section for a link).

Stop Smoking Program #2: The Sedona Method:
The Sedona Method does not involve taking any substances or supplements. It is strictly a do-it-yourself self help behavior modification program. According to The Sedona Method's website, the company's method will teach a smoker how to learn the Sedona Method which shows the smoker how to tap into and use his natural ability to overcome negative thoughts, feelings or cravings, allowing the smoker immediate relief from the loss of control that comes from addictions like smoking. The Sedona Method allows the smoker to use any other stop smoking program, patch, or gum he may find appropriate, but claims that most smokers do not need other aids once they learn the behavior modification theories. The Sedona Method offers free tapes, DVDs and newsletters to get you started. (See bio section for a link).

Stop Smoking Program #3:
Richard MacKenzie's Stop Smoking Hypnosis Downloadable Audio: Like the Sedona Method, Richard MacKenzie's Hypnosis Program works under the premise that smoking is a habit that can be broken using the power of your mind. However, MacKenzie's hypnosis audio (downloadable to MP3, computer or CD, makes that process easier. MacKenzie claims that research has shown that hypnosis is a much more effective method of stopping smoking with a higher success rate than all other methods. MacKenzie offers a free newsletter with tips and hints. The Stop Smoking Hypnosis download is $49 with an 8 week money back guarantee.

It's important to find a stop smoking program that you can live with and aligns with your beliefs and comfort level. It's also advisable to take advantage of the stop smoking programs' free samples, newsletter or tapes to get a taste of what you'll experience should you sign on with the stop smoking program.

Links to the aforementioned freebies' vendors can be obtained by clicking here. Ava Alderman is an internet and technology researcher.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ava_Alderman

Top Ten Reasons to Quit Smoking - And How!

Here are top ten reasons to quit smoking.

1. More than 400,000 deaths occur in the U.S. each year from smoking-related illnesses. Smoking greatly increases your risks for lung cancer and many other cancers.

2. Secondhand smoke from a parent's cigarette increases a child's chances for middle ear problems, causes coughing and wheezing, and worsens asthma conditions.

3. Among infants to 18 months of age, secondhand smoke is associated with as many as 300,000 cases of bronchitis and pneumonia each year. If the mother smoked during pregnancy, her baby will average 6 ounces less and its pulse will be 30% faster than a non-smoker's baby, and there will be nicotine withdrawal symptoms in the baby after birth. Premature birth has been related to smoking by the mother. There is a direct link between parents' smoking and children's respiratory disease. (I suffer with chronic bronchitis in my 40's today, and wonder if it's related.)

4. Quitting smoking saves money. At a minimum of $2 per pack, a pack-a-day smoker can expect to save more than $700 per year. It appears that the price of cigarettes will continue to rise in coming years, making financial rewards of quitting even greater.

5. Nicotine affects the nerve-muscle junctions, causing tremors and shaking.

6. Nicotine causes narrowing and constriction of the arteries, adding to the heart's load.

7. Nicotine, through its ability to stimulate, causes excitement and anxiety. But the effect wears off, and often a period of depression follows.

8. Nicotine is an insecticide, and it makes the blood thicker and decreases the available oxygen. It also adversely affects breathing, sweating, intestinal, and heart actions of our autonomic nervous system, probably due to hindering the blood flow to the nerve centers in the brain.

9. Two to four cigarettes in a row increase blood fats 200 to 400%. The average smoker (30 cigarettes per day) increases his chance of heart disease by 4 to 6 times the average.

10. Smoking causes widespread and permanent destruction of the tiny air sacs (alveoli) and narrowing of small blood vessels in the lungs, decreasing the oxygen supply, requiring a higher blood pressure, thus causing extensive circulatory problems and premature heart attacks. Smokers have difficulty running and exercising.

Now for the good news:

You can quit quickly, easily and completely through hypnosis. Hypnotism to stop smoking is an excellent way to end your smoking habit. The success rates with hypnotism are possibly double that of the patch and gum. You can also use hypnosis together with other stop smoking programs like the patch to achieve even better results. In fact, multiple-session hypnosis has a 66% success rate at helping people quit smoking, higher than any other smoking cessation method available. And you won't experience the withdrawal or ongoing cravings that are common with other programs.

Do your body, your family, and your pocketbook a favor and use hypnotherapy to stop smoking now!

Cindy Locher, who contributes this article, is a certified hypnotist who helps people improve the quality of their lives in many ways. Quitting smoking, losing weight and reducing stress are just a few of the many applications of hypnotherapy.

Check out how Cindy can help you at http://www.mn-hypnosis.com !

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cindy_Locher

What Happens To You When You Quit Smoking?

If you are a smoker trying to quit, it is important that you know what happens to you when you quit smoking in order to keep you motivated. After all, quitting smoking seems to be one of the most difficult things that you could hope to do so you will need all the help you can get right?

Smoking is a hugely destructive thing to do. Despite the fact that you seem to enjoy it so much, it is the single biggest cause of premature death in the western world. That is why you need to make every effort to overcome your addiction to nicotine and get off the smokes once and for all.

The good news is that what happens to you when you quit smoking is all positive - there are no negatives as far as your health is concerned. One of the initial benefits, apparent within 30 minutes, is that as your nicotine levels start to subside, your blood vessels start to relax and your blood pressure eases as a result. Your heart is less stressed and your heart rate will fall too.

When you smoke, you are put through a roller coaster of stress from the toxins in tobacco smoke. This causes your blood pressure and heart rate to go up and down like the proverbial bride's nighty. Once you stop smoking, this roller coaster of blood pressure and heart rate stops too.

Within 8 hours of quitting smoking, your blood oxygen levels are rising significantly, your blood carbon monoxide levels are falling significantly and your body's nicotine levels are falling steadily. Within 24 hours, carbon monoxide levels in the blood will have fallen to the same level as that of a non-smoker. This is good because it means your blood can work properly at last.

One of the most noticeable things that happens to you when you quit smoking is the sharp increase in your sense of taste after about 2 to 3 days. You will be able to taste things much more clearly than before as the deadening affect of tobacco smoke on your tongue and nose subsides.

It will be at about this time that you are also starting to suffer the worst of your cravings for tobacco. Nicotine levels will be at an all time low for you and your mind will probably be fixed on either food or cigarettes. This is one of the most difficult stages of quitting smoking that you must overcome.

If you can persist with abstaining from the smokes, you will also start to notice an improvement in your breathing. The muck that has been placed in your lungs from smoking will start to be cleaned by your body. You will develop a cough that may seem worse than your smoker's cough from before. This is natural as your lungs start to cleanse themselves of the filth that has accumulated over time.

Another significant change that happens to you when you quit smoking is the improvement in your blood circulation. It should improve within the first three months and you will notice in fewer incidents of cold feet or hands. You may also notice fewer occasions of 'pins and needles' (paresthesia).

Some of the main benefits of what happens to you when you quit smoking become most apparent after about a year off the smokes. Notably, you will be able to breath much more easily and you will neither cough, nor wheeze as you used to when you smoked. You are half as likely to suffer a stroke as you were when a smoker.

After about 5 years, you are statistically at half the risk of a smoker of suffering from a heart attack. Your chances of stroke will have now diminished to that of a non-smoker too.

After about 10 years, you will have halved your risk of cancer, particularly lung cancer, but as a former smoker, you should always be aware of the higher risk that you face. Your chances of suffering from a heart attack will have diminished to that of a non-smoker too.

As a final thought on what happens to you when you quit smoking, you should understand the effects smoking has on your life expectancy. Quitting before you are between 35-40 should see your life expectancy pretty much unaffected from smoking. That's not a guarantee though and people do die from smoking related diseases even in their 20's!

It is important to know that there is evidence that for every year you smoke after this 35-40 year window, you reduce your life expectancy by around 3 months on average. A smoker at age 60 should expect to die 5 years younger than a non-smoking counterpart. That should be food for thought and should help keep you motivated in any attempt to quit smoking.

This article is by Tom Dainty, a quit smoking therapist and author of The Quit Smoking Bible, a cognitive behavioural therapy approach to quitting smoking. His work is only available from http://quitsmokingbible.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tom_Dainty

Ways to Quit Smoking - Different Methods to Try

There are different ways to quit smoking but these ways can be difficult to apply, much less, follow. Moreover, withdrawal symptoms may be difficult to cope with when you are in the process of quitting the habit. These symptoms include lack of or inability to concentrate, irritability, increased cravings and anxiety. Withdrawal syndrome may occur because your body normally craves for nicotine, which is an addictive substance in cigarettes.

However, the good news is that there are actually several ways to quit smoking. You only have to find the right method that suits you best. Here are some ways to quit smoking:

1. Hypnotherapy. This approach can give moderate effect on curbing the habit. In hypnotherapy, you subject yourself to a hypnosis session in which the therapist does an auto suggestion technique that gives you the will power to stop smoking.

2. Alternative Therapies. There are several therapies that can help smokers kick the cigarette habit through control of nicotine craving. Some examples of these therapies include acupuncture, acupressure, aromatherapy and meditation. In acupuncture, small needles of different lengths and sizes are inserted into predetermined points of the body that affect energy flow to the mouth, lungs, respiratory system and some parts of the brain that stimulate cigarette craving. Acupuncture is mostly effective during the first hours of nicotine craving.

3. Laser Treatment. This treatment is done by placing a low intensity beam of light on certain energy points of the body. Laser helps discharge endorphins, which are chemicals that help lower the smoker's nicotine craving. However, a laser treatment can be quite expensive, which can cost roughly about a hundred dollars per session.

4. Medications. Medications that can reduce your cigarette craving may be purchased over the counter or will need a doctor's prescription. These prescriptions can either be relaxants or sedatives that help control or calm the nerves, which are usually prescribed either on a regular or SOS basis.

5. Strong willpower. Nothing beats the good old fashioned way to quit smoking than to have willpower. Willpower costs you nothing. It is but a state of mind. And if you really want to succeed with your goal, you must have strong willpower.

6. Call for counseling. Willpower needs a little boost with counseling as well. It is essential for behavioral support. Whether you like individual or group counseling, it is up to you. A number of private groups, charitable organization and government institutions offer counseling services for those who want to quit smoking.

So make it your resolve to kick the cigarette habit. With control, consistency and commitment, these ways to quit smoking can pave your path towards a healthy lifestyle.

By Davion W

Davion W advocates healthy living. Find out how you can pick up some useful tips and an easy way to quit smoking book at http://www.clickbankproductreview.com/effectivewaystoquitsmoking.php.

Forever Smoke Free! Stop Smoking Hypnosis

Hi,
Among the resources that I have recommended at the side bar, are the Audio CDs on Forever Smoke Free! Stop Smoking Hypnosis. I would strongly encourage any smoker to try these CDs - even if you're not sure if you are "ready" to quit, and even if you know nothing about hypnosis.

The CDs have received rave reviews, among them the following:

Paris Barclay, Director - "The West Wing", "ER"
"Trevor's help was so effective, I continue to recommend him to my family and friends."

Rick Floyd, Art Director - "Vanity Fair", "Vogue"
"Trevor’s talent gave me the ability to change my life."

Bill Brooks, Vice President - Hilton Hotels
"I always leave my sessions with Trevor relaxed and free of stress."

This highly successful Stop Smoking Hypnosis Program consists of three stop smoking CDs.
Stop Smoking Hypnosis Motivation, guides you through a series of relaxation techniques and suggestions, which will decrease your desire and increase your motivation to quit smoking - simply by listening to this relaxing hypnosis CD as you drift to sleep.

At the end of this first week, you will listen to The Stop Smoking Hypnosis Session. This hypnosis session will gently guide you into a very deep state of relaxation. Once in this relaxed state, you are given a series of powerful suggestions that will permanently free you from any desire to smoke! You will only need to listen to this hypnosis session once, as you will be a Non-Smoker at the end of this session!

After becoming a Non-Smoker, you will begin listening to Forever Smoke Free! This hypnosis session will further reinforce and strengthen your commitment to remain permanently smoke free!

Why is "Forever Smoke Free!" so effective?
By creating direct access to the most powerful part of the mind, the subconscious, you can teach your subconscious mind to automatically act in the ways that best suit your goals, rather than relying on poor habits that you've built up over the years.

When you align what you consciously desire with your subconscious motivations...stopping smoking has never been easier!

Can everyone be hypnotized?

Yes. Have you ever been driving a familiar route home and suddenly arrived at your destination without remembering the last few minutes of the drive? This is one example of our subconscious mind taking over the routine details of life. Our subconscious mind handles most of our day to day activities. That is the subconscious mind's job - to handle the details of life, while our conscious mind handles the more important needs.

Most clients are amazed at how quickly they accomplish their desired results. Unlike traditional therapies, Hypnotherapy is able to help you reach your goals without going through years of self-exploration.

When You Are Ready!

Reach your goals faster than ever! You can and will make permanent, positive changes in your personal and professional life. Beverly Hills Hypnosis offers an effective, relaxing, drug-free choice for change.


From the Author

Why are our Hypnosis programs so effective?

By creating direct access to the most powerful part of the mind, the subconscious. With the help of Beverly Hills Therapy's Hypnosis programs, you can teach your subconscious mind to automatically act in the ways that best suit your goals, rather than relying on poor habits that you've built up over the years. When you align what you consciously desire with your subconscious motivations...your possibilities are endless!

Can everyone be hypnotized?

Yes. Have you ever been driving a familiar route home and suddenly arrived at your destination without remembering the last few minutes of the drive? This is one example of our subconscious mind taking over the routine details of life. Our subconscious mind handles most of our day to day activities. That is the subconscious mind's job - to handle the details of life, while our conscious mind handles the more important needs. Most clients are amazed at how quickly they accomplish their desired results. Unlike traditional therapies, Hypnotherapy is able to help you reach your goals without going through years of self-exploration.

When You Are Ready!

Reach your goals faster than ever! You can and will make permanent, positive changes in your personal and professional life. Beverly Hills Therapy's Hypnosis programs offer an effective, relaxing, drug-free choice for change.

From the Inside Flap
I have seen many people, myself included; transform their lives by utilizing the power of the subconscious. It is amazing what we can accomplish when we align our conscious desires and our subconscious motivations.

Generally we are more suggestible in the evening, therefore, one of the best times to listen to this session is at night before going to sleep. Please never listen to this motivation program while driving or at anytime you need to be alert.

If you find that you are drifting to sleep while listening to this recording, you may trust that your subconscious is still receptive to ideas and suggestions for reaching your desired goals.

Warm Wishes, Trevor H. Scott, C.Ht.

About the Author
Trevor H. Scott, C.Ht. is the founder and Executive Director of Beverly Hills Therapy.

He is a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, a Subconscious Motivational Therapist and a member of The American Counseling Association. In addition to studying Psychology and Neuro-Linguistic Programming, he attended the only nationally accredited college of hypnotherapy.

An expert in his field, Trevor specializes in providing private consultations and audio programs for smoking cessation, self-confidence, sleeping disorders and anxiety/stress management.

Best Regards.

Quit Smoking Advice

Hi Guys,

The following clips which I would like to share with smokers are from the BBC: Horizon documentary series entitled "We Love Cigarettes".

The advice this guy gives is pretty damn good, it convinced me a chain smoker to quit cold turkey. It has been a couple months now and I'm still going strong.

Strongly recommends that you view them. God willing it will help you; You Too Can Be a Non Smoker.

Best Regards.

How To Quit Smoking

To quit smoking is possible only by reducing the acidity of our body. what increases our body acidty :

1)Lack of Faith:If we make a careful research we shall see that people who have faith and perform their prayers in Islamic countries almost do not smoke at all .Praying throws the negative feelings from human brain, keeps you self-confident and prevents
nervousness, stress causing the body acidity.

2)Refined foods and too much consumption of meat : increases the acidity of our body. By consuming natural foods and les meat your body will be balanced and will not need to smoke

Hereinbelow are some refined foods:

White flour products(sandwiches,pizzas,cakes, ,etc):have almost no nutritional value and contain various chemical ingredients so as to have a better appearance,mouth-feel..Best way of consuming wheat is buying wholewheat bread, bulgur or making our own bread at home with fresh ground whole wheat flour.

White rice,salt,sugar: polished rice (without bran) also loses all the vitamins, minerals and causes acidity in our metabolism. The right alternative is natural,branned rice.

White sugar: and its derivatives like chocolates,ice-creams,puddings,cakes,etc . are subject to many chemical applications till they become refined and granulated and increase acidty.

We can obtain sugar from legumes ,cereals, fruits, vegetables and dairy products naturally. Ready made vinegars,tomato pastes,soups,puddings,pickles,tinned vegetables: also cause acidty and we must try to produce them at home as well with simple methods. Margarines,refined edible oils:are also unnatural because of the refining processes(bleaching,deodorising, degumming,etc.).

Best alternative is cold pressed olive oil or eating oil seeds like sesame,coconut,groundnut or nuts like hazelnuts,peanuts,walnuts to satisfy our limited amount of daily oil need.Butter is not also good because of its saturated oil content. Avocado or peanut butter are the best alternatives of them. Tea,coffee and all kinds of alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks increases the acidity so we must prefer natural mineral water,herbal teas like linden,rosehip,etc. or fresh fruit juices .

Our protein intake can be obtained from meat,poultry,fish but the best way is to prefer lite dairy products or soybeans which is the only legume that can stand alone as a complete protein because too much consumption of animal products make our body tired because they contain no fiber and cause acidty.

After passing to natural nutrition we must quit smoking very slowly.Firstly you must determine a base amount. E.G.You must smoke everyday 15 cigarettes(or 20) for a week.

After that you will decrease the number always one by one.E.G. next week everyday you will smoke 14 cigarettes.Quiting cigarette is also hard psychologically therefore you must be very patient and let your body adapt to the new amount both physically and psychologically and try to avoid yourself being effected from the side effects of quitting smoking .

So each week by decreasing you can come to your last cigarette and then you begin to smoke 1 in 2 weeks then,1 cigarette in one month and then you can quit completely.You must not forget that after this period of 3-4 month quiting process you will gain 10 years added to your life .

Appended is a video on How to quit smoking cigarette; YOU CAN DO IT AS YOU SEE IT !

Best Regards

Smoking And What It Does To You

Hi Smokers,

Here is a Great Video About Smoking and what it does to you. Take heed of what you will see.

Just a sincere friendly gesture.