asthma & acupuncture

Asthma is a long-term condition that affects more than 20 million Americans. Caring for a chronic condition such as asthma can sometimes be frustrating, but it's important to remember that it can be controlled. Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine can be powerful allies in the management of asthma, and they work well in conjunction with other types of treatment.

The facts about asthma  Asthma is an inflammatory disease in which the airways become blocked or narrowed, causing symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Some people have long periods without symptoms, while others may always experience difficulty breathing. Asthma attacks occur when something triggers the inflammation of the respiratory system. Flare ups can be severe-sometimes even life threatening.
Asthma attacks are generally caused by one or more triggers, including:
● A cold, flu, bronchitis, or sinus infection
● Allergens including dust mites, tree and grass pollen, mold, and animal dander
● Irritants that include tobacco smoke, strong fragrances, and air pollution
● Certain foods and food additives
● Aspirin and anti-inflammatory drugs
● Strenuous exercise
● Changes in weather
● Strong emotions such as anxiety, stress, grief and anger
Generally, the available approach of asthma treatment is to try and prevent attacks. This is usually done with regular use of anti-inflammatory medications, inhaled steroids and leukotriene inhibitors. Once an asthma attack is underway, quick-acting medications like corticosteroids may be able to relieve it. Most of these medications can cause side effects such as nausea, headaches muscle tremors, and insomnia. However, many people have found that acupuncture treatment may help reduce asthma attacks, improve lung function and even lower the amount of medication needed.

Asthma according to ancient principles In Oriental Medicine, asthma is known as "Xiao Chuan," which means "wheezing" and "shortness of breath." It is caused by a variety of factors that involve an imbalance with Wei Qi, and an imbalance with one or more of the organ systems, generally the Lungs, Spleen or Kidney.

An acupuncturist will take a holistic, or whole-body approach in order to determine what areas of the body are affected and out of balance and contributing to the attacks.

Since acupuncture and Oriental Medicine take into account your overall well-being, your practitioner may also address other issues that may be contributing to your asthma, such as exercise, diet and stress. Acupuncture is a safe, effective, and pain-free approach to many conditions, and you my find that your overall health improves along with your asthma symptoms.

Below are some of the more common TCM diagnosis that your acupuncturist may discover and treat.
● Invasion of Wind
● Phlegm Damp
● Lung weakness
● Kidney weakness
● Spleen weakness
● Liver imbalance 
● Liver Heat
● Wei Qi deficiency

Constitution medicine and herb for asthma In constitution medicine, asthma comes from the constitution have weak metal energy. There are bunch of good food and life style for strengthening weak metal energy. If we combine with herbal formula, the asthma is easy to treat in constitution medicine.  

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