Asthma
Asthma is an acute respiratory disorder involving wheezing, tightness of the chest, breathlessness and difficult inspiration. It is caused by allergens such as dust as well as stress.
In Chinese medicine asthma is caused by the Lung energy (“Lung Qi”) failing to descend. In acute cases this can be caused by simple obstruction in the Lung. Chronic asthma is involved with an underlying weakness of the Lungs and Kidneys predisposing the system to recurrent attacks.
Treatment involves arresting the acute episodes with strong dispersing herbs and acupuncture to regulate the lung function and eliminate phlegm. Once the acute episode is relieved, treatment is aimed at strengthening the weakened system and preventing recurrence. Specific herbs are used to strengthen Lung and Kidney function. Regular acupuncture stimulates the lungs to descend properly to regulate the breath.
Management of asthma with acupuncture and herbs is favourable for those who wish to gradually reduce the use of bronchodilator medication. Prolonged use of these drugs weaken lung function further and can induce tachycardia, arrhythmias, hand tremors and insomnia.
Specific foods can aggravate phlegm in the body so a thorough analysis of the diet is carried out to identify any of these and modify the diet as necessary.
Treatment time depends on the chronicity of the asthma and the degree of medication that has been used over time. Chronic cases with long term reliance on medication take longer to improve.
To start managing your asthma naturally, book in your initial Chinese medicine consultation with Dr Rachel Berners(CM) at her Eltham or City practice. Call Rachel direct on 0417325393.