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fatigue
How to Treat Dysautonomia With Acupuncture and TCM
By Qineng Tan, L.Ac., Ph.D. and Xiaomei Cai, L.Ac., Ph.D.
Fast heart rate or irregular heartbeat? Feel faint or dizzy when standing up? Fatigue, brain fog? Chest pain? These can all be Dysautonomia symptoms, or autonomic dysfunction. Acupuncture and TCM offer treatment for dysautonomia and autonomic neuropathy.
“Dysautonomia” is a general term that refers to multiple conditions related to autonomic dysfunction. There are many different types of autonomic nervous system disorders that fall under the umbrella of dysautonomia.
The autonomic nervous system (ANS) controls body functions like:
- Blood pressure
- Heart rate
- Breathing
- Digestion
- Temperature regulation
- Urinary function
- Sexual function
- Sweating
Basically, the ANS is in charge of all of the things our bodies do automatically—sometimes called involuntary functions—without us having to think about them.
Dysautonomia symptoms are fairly common, especially later in life, but medical science still has limited options for diagnosing and helping relieve these conditions.
Dysautonomia can be a primary condition, caused by genetic or degenerative disorders, or by damage to nerves (autonomic neuropathy). Secondary dysautonomia can occur as a result of another condition, such as an autoimmune disease, neurological disease, or injury.
Recent studies are beginning to show that dysautonomia, especially POTS, can be linked to long Covid. Even if a person had a Covid infection that was not particularly severe, the long-term effects of the virus have been shown to linger in the body, in the brain and nervous system, causing autonomic dysfunction long after the acute phase of the virus has passed.
TCM offers a way to treat dysautonomia, as acupuncture has been shown to have a positive effect on nervous system function.
Dysautonomia Symptoms
Different types of autonomic dysfunction will cause various symptoms in individuals. The most common symptoms of ANS include:
- Dizziness when standing up or changing position, light-headedness
- Vertigo
- Fainting, passing out
- Arrhythmia, irregular heartbeat, heart palpitations
- Fatigue, feeling tired
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Trouble swallowing
- Excessive sweating, or lack of sweating, clammy feeling
- Thirst
- Headaches, migraines
- Dry eyes, or excessive tears
- Digestive issues: constipation, diarrhea, etc.
- Frequent urination, incontinence
- Erectile dysfunction (ED)
- Sensitivity to sounds
Top 10 Types of Autonomia
Dysautonomia symptoms can seem similar to those of other nervous system conditions. This is why it can be difficult to be correctly diagnosed. It is fairly common for a person presenting with symptoms of dysautonomia to be told that they are suffering from anxiety or panic disorder.
Secondary dysautonomia occurs when another condition is the cause of symptoms. For example, dysautonomia systems can be the result of having disorders, such as:
- Parkinson’s disease
- Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
- Celiac disease
- Guillain-Barre syndrome
- Lupus
- Lyme disease
- Sjogren’s syndrome
- Ulcerative Colitis
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Sarcoidosis
- Crohn’s Disease
- IBS
- Fibromyalgia
These conditions can all cause damage to parts of the autonomic nervous system and therefore lead to symptoms of Dysautonomia.
There are at least 15 different types of Primary Dysautonomia. POTS is probably the most common one.
POTS Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome – POTS is a condition characterized by an excessive increase in heart rate when moving from lying down to standing up (orthostatic intolerance). Symptoms may include lightheadedness, palpitations, fatigue, and fainting. It often affects young adults, particularly women.
Hyperadrenergic POTS is a subtype of POTS characterized by excessive sympathetic nervous system activity, leading to symptoms such as palpitations, anxiety, tremors, and hypertension in addition to orthostatic intolerance.
Treatment for POTS often involves a combination of lifestyle modifications, medications, and physical therapy. Lifestyle changes may include increasing fluid and salt intake to expand blood volume, wearing compression stockings to prevent blood pooling in the legs, and gradually increasing physical activity to improve cardiovascular fitness. Medications such as beta-blockers, fludrocortisone, midodrine, and pyridostigmine may be prescribed to help regulate heart rate, blood pressure, and blood volume.
IST Inappropriate Sinus Tachycardia – Inappropriate Sinus Tachycardia (IST) is a condition characterized by a fast heart rate at rest that is not caused by exercise, fever, or stress. It is considered inappropriate because the heart rate is elevated without a physiological reason. People with IST typically experience heart rates exceeding 100 beats per minute while at rest, often accompanied by symptoms such as palpitations, chest discomfort, fatigue, and shortness of breath.
The exact cause of IST is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve dysfunction in the sinus node, the natural pacemaker of the heart, which regulates heart rate. In individuals with IST, the sinus node may become overly sensitive to normal stimuli, leading to excessive firing and a rapid heart rate.
Treatment for IST focuses on controlling symptoms and improving quality of life. Lifestyle modifications like stress reduction, regular exercise, and avoiding triggers such as caffeine and nicotine may be recommended. Medications such as beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, or ivabradine may be prescribed to help slow the heart rate and alleviate symptoms. In severe cases that do not respond to medication, procedures such as catheter ablation may be considered to modify the electrical pathways in the heart and reduce symptoms.
NCS Neurocardiogenic Syncope or Vasovagal Syncope – NCS, also known as vasovagal syncope, is a form of dysautonomia characterized by a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure, leading to fainting. It can be triggered by various factors such as prolonged standing, emotional stress, or pain.
Management of NCS focuses on avoiding triggers like prolonged standing, dehydration, or emotional stress, which can lead to fainting episodes. Increasing fluid and salt intake may help prevent episodes by expanding blood volume. Medications such as beta-blockers or fludrocortisone may be prescribed to help stabilize heart rate and blood pressure. In severe cases, implantation of a pacemaker or other cardiac device may be considered to regulate heart rhythm.
AAG Autoimmune Autonomic Ganglionopathy – AAG is a rare autoimmune disorder characterized by the production of antibodies that target autonomic ganglia, leading to autonomic dysfunction. Symptoms may include orthostatic hypotension, gastrointestinal dysmotility, and urinary dysfunction.
MSA Multiple System Atrophy – Management of MSA is focused on addressing specific symptoms related to autonomic dysfunction, parkinsonism, and cerebellar ataxia. Medications such as levodopa-carbidopa may be prescribed to alleviate motor symptoms, while medications such as fludrocortisone or midodrine may be used to manage orthostatic hypotension. Physical therapy and speech therapy may also be beneficial for managing motor and speech difficulties associated with MSA.
Management of MSA is focused on addressing specific symptoms related to autonomic dysfunction, parkinsonism, and cerebellar ataxia. Medications such as levodopa-carbidopa may be prescribed to alleviate motor symptoms, while medications such as fludrocortisone or midodrine may be used to manage orthostatic hypotension. Physical therapy and speech therapy may also be beneficial for managing motor and speech difficulties associated with MSA.
PAF Pure Autonomic Failure – PAF is a rare condition characterized by dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, leading to problems with blood pressure regulation, heart rate variability, and temperature control. Symptoms may include orthostatic hypotension, urinary retention, and gastrointestinal issues.
Treatment for PAF aims to manage symptoms related to autonomic dysfunction. Lifestyle modifications like elevating the head of the bed, wearing compression garments, and increasing fluid and salt intake may help alleviate symptoms of orthostatic hypotension. Medications such as midodrine, fludrocortisone, and droxidopa may be prescribed to raise blood pressure and improve symptoms.
FD Familial Dysautonomia – begins at birth as a result of a genetic mutation inherited from the parents. FD affects the central nervous system, breathing, digestion, ability to form tears, regulation of temperature, regulation of blood pressure, taste, and pain sensitivity. Usually diagnosed in infancy, as babies will have trouble with feeding, will not cry tears, and will show poor growth. As the disease progresses, there may be development of arrhythmia, GERD, dry eyes and vision problems, scoliosis and/or weak bones.
DBHD Dopamine-Beta Hydrolase Deficiency – a rare genetic disorder characterized by the body’s inability to produce the enzyme dopamine-beta hydroxylase (DBH). This enzyme is essential for converting dopamine to norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter involved in regulating blood pressure and other autonomic functions.
Treatment for DBH deficiency focuses on managing symptoms by increasing fluid and salt intake to help maintain blood pressure, wearing compression garments to reduce symptoms of orthostatic hypotension, and avoiding triggers such as hot environments and prolonged standing.
In some cases, medications that increase blood volume or constrict blood vessels may be prescribed to help alleviate symptoms. However, treatment options for DBH deficiency are limited, and management typically involves ongoing monitoring and adjustment of therapies to address specific symptoms and complications as they arise.
OI Orthostatic Intolerance – Orthostatic intolerance (OI) refers to a group of conditions characterized by symptoms such as lightheadedness, dizziness, fatigue, and fainting when a person moves from lying down into an upright position.
There are various types of orthostatic intolerance, including postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), neurally mediated hypotension (NMH), and vasovagal syncope. Each type presents with its own set of symptoms and underlying mechanisms.
Besides lifestyle modifications such as increasing fluid and salt intake, wearing compression garments, and engaging in regular exercise can help improve blood flow and cardiovascular function, medications such as beta-blockers, fludrocortisone, and midodrine may also be prescribed to help regulate heart rate and blood pressure.
BF Baroreflex Failure – Baroreflex failure is a condition characterized by the inability of the body to regulate blood pressure in response to changes in posture or stress. It can result in symptoms such as orthostatic hypotension, hypertension, and fluctuations in heart rate.
Can Acupuncture Help Dysautonomia?
From the perspective of conventional medicine, dysautonomia is still considered a mysterious, confusing problem to solve. But TCM philosophy has recognized this type of disorder for many centuries. Acupuncture has been used since ancient times to help regulate the autonomic nervous system, although we have not always used that terminology for it.
A Chinese medical text that dates back to the first century B.C.E. describes “Ying-Wei Disharmony,” the symptoms of which include: breathing dysfunction, palpitations, irregular heartbeat, anxiety, digestive problems, nausea, dizziness, chronic pain, pressure headaches, tingling and numbness (neuropathy), and insomnia.
For a long time, medical science has looked for the mechanisms that make acupuncture work.
Recent studies have begun to show more clearly that the stimulation of acupoints affects the neural pathways, including the autonomic nervous system.
Acupuncture has been shown to help regulate ANS functions such as temperature regulation, blood pressure, heart rate, and muscle sympathetic nerve activities.
Acupuncture helps modulate transmitters in the brain, restoring balance when these activities have become dysregulated. More specifically, electro-acupuncture has been shown to work upon the hypothalamus, the medulla oblongata, the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex, and other regions of the brain that contribute to ANS function.
One study involving 30 female patients with dysautonomia symptoms showed that acupuncture treatment helped relieve heart palpitations, abdominal issues, and helped patients sleep better.
In addition to helping to regulate the autonomic nervous system, an acupuncturist will look for signs that other organ systems are out of balance and contributing to symptoms. For example, some patients with dysautonomia may need acupuncture and herbs to help balance the spleen and kidneys, which will in turn help improve adrenal function.
Stagnation of blood or phlegm can sometimes be causing blockages that contribute to nervous system dysfunction.
Acupuncture Near Me for Dysautonomia in Los Angeles Area
Dysautonomia is a complex condition to treat. A multi-faceted approach, combining conventional medical approaches with medications with acupuncture and herbal remedies can be helpful for managing the variety of symptoms a person may be experiencing. TCM is an excellent modality for working with this type of condition. If you or someone you know is struggling to get help for POTS or other autonomic disorders, call us at Art of Wellness in West L.A..
*This article is for education from the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine only. The education provided by this article is not approved by FDA to diagnose, prevent, treat and cure human diseases. It should not stop you from consulting with your physician for your medical conditions. Traditional Chinese Medicine is based on Qi, which is an invisible force that usually cannot be observed by modern science. Because science focuses on testing ideas about the natural world with evidence obtained through observation, these aspects of acupuncture can’t be studied by science. Therefore acupuncture and Chinese herbs are often not supported by double-blind, randomized trials, and they are considered alternative medicine therapies in the United States.
How To Treat Sjogren’s Disease With Acupuncture and TCM
By Qineng Tan, L.Ac., Ph.D. and Xiaomei Cai, L.Ac., Ph.D.
Dry mouth? Dry eyes? Joint pain that flares up and then goes away? These can be Sjogren’s disease symptoms. Sjogren’s Syndrome is an autoimmune disease that causes damage to the glands that produce saliva and tears. Acupuncture and TCM provide an alternative Sjogren’s treatment to help relieve Sjogren’s syndrome symptoms.
Sjogren’s autoimmune disease is becoming more common, with an estimated four million Americans affected.
Many people with Sjogren also have another autoimmune disorder, such as rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, or lupus. In these cases, it is called Secondary Sjogren’s syndrome.
Anyone can develop Sjogren’s syndrome, but it is much more prevalent among women, and in people over the age of 40.
What causes Sjogren’s disease? As with most autoimmune diseases, medical research has not discovered the exact cause of Sjogren’s syndrome. The immune system, which normally works to get rid of bacteria or other pathogens, sometimes malfunctions and begins attacking healthy cells.
In the case of Sjogren’s, the immune system mistakenly attacks cells of the salivary glands and the glands that produce tears. When these glands become inflamed and/or damaged, they no longer produce enough fluid to keep the eyes and mouth lubricated.
Acupuncture treatment can be a safe and effective way to help relieve symptoms of dry mouth (also known as xerostomia), dry eyes, fatigue, and joint pain.
Top 10 Sjogren’s Syndrome Symptoms
As with other autoimmune disorders, the symptoms of Sjogren’s disease can seem to come and go, or “flare up” periodically. A Sjogren’s flare is a sudden onset of symptoms that occurs when you’ve been feeling better for a while, and then something like work stress or doing too much can suddenly make you feel extreme fatigue and other symptoms.
The most common Sjogren’s Disease symptoms include:
- Dry mouth, dry throat, difficulty swallowing, “cotton mouth”
- Dry eyes, gritty eyes, burning, itchy eyes, sensitivity to light, blurred vision
- Joint pain, stiff joints, swollen joints
- Dry skin, skin rash
- Loss of taste, can’t taste, things taste different
- Dental cavities, oral thrush, oral yeast infections
- Mouth ulcers
- Dry cough, persistent cough
- Vaginal dryness
- Fatigue
Sometimes Sjogren’s can cause peripheral neuropathy, or tingling and numbness in the hands and feet. Some people may experience acid reflux, swollen glands, cognitive difficulties, like poor short term memory, shortness of breath, and trouble sleeping.
Less common but more serious complications of Sjogren’s disease can include a higher risk factor for getting pneumonia, kidney problems, and liver disease, like cirrhosis or hepatitis. In rare cases, people with Sjogren’s syndrome can develop lymphoma (cancer of the lymph nodes).
Medical treatment for Sjogren’s Syndrome is mostly about managing symptoms, so that a person can live comfortably.
Sjogren’s Treatment
Managing Sjogren’s symptoms like dry eyes and joint pain is the primary aim of medical treatment for Sjogren’s.
Dryness is the most common symptom of Sjögren’s, and one of the primary approaches to managing dry eyes and dry mouth involves moisture replacement therapies. Artificial tears and lubricating eye drops help alleviate dry eyes, while saliva substitutes and frequent sips of water can provide relief for dry mouth.
Medications that stimulate saliva production, such as pilocarpine or cevimeline, may be prescribed. These drugs can help improve saliva flow, but they can also cause side effects, like dizziness and headaches.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be recommended to manage pain and inflammation associated with Sjögren’s syndrome. In more severe cases, corticosteroids, which act as anti-inflammatories, may be prescribed. However, long-term use of steroid medications does, in many cases, cause unwanted side effects, increasing the risk of developing problems like cataracts, osteoporosis, and problems with blood sugar.
Immunosuppressive medications, such as hydroxychloroquine or methotrexate, are often prescribed for autoimmune diseases, to dampen the immune response. These drugs aim to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms, particularly in cases where there are complications involving organs like the kidneys or liver.
In cases where joint pain and inflammation are present, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) like methotrexate may be considered. These drugs work to modify the course of the disease and manage systemic symptoms.
Acupuncture and Chinese herbal supplements have been shown to work as an effective alternative or adjunct treatment for Sjogren’s disease.
Can Acupuncture Help Sjogren’s Syndrome?
Many diseases and syndromes have a variety of possible symptoms, which show up differently in different people. In TCM, we recognize that sometimes people can have the same sort of disorder, but with different patterns of symptoms, which give us clues about what sort of internal imbalance is causing the disorder. Thus, an acupuncturist will create a unique treatment plan for each individual patient.
According to TCM theory, Sjogren’s disease symptoms can be related to Yin deficiency, and a pattern of dry heat. Acupuncture and herbs can help to nourish and strengthen Yin, and bring more moisture to the organ systems.
In other cases, though, there may be dampness, stasis, or Qi deficiency. Herbs to strengthen the liver and help relieve depressed Qi may be used, and/or herbs to tonify the spleen, to help clear dampness.
One systematic review of clinical trials found that a Chinese herbal formula was superior to Hydroxychloroquine for helping to alleviate Sjogren’s symptoms.
A study comparing patients with Sjogren’s treated with hydroxychloroquine versus those who received acupuncture treatment and herbs found that the group who received TCM treatment for Sjogren’s had an 83% effective rate, versus a 60% effective rate among the people who took the immunosuppressant medication. This study measured saliva and tear production as well as immune system function.
It has been hypothesized that acupuncture treatment has a positive effect on the parasympathetic nervous system, helping promote relaxation and move patients out of a “fight or flight” mode, which, in turn, can help to restore natural salivation and improve appetite.
Another study found that Sjogren’s patients who received acupuncture to help dry eye symptoms reported that they were able to greatly reduce their use of artificial tears after receiving a course of acupuncture, and were still feeling these benefits several months after treatment.
Acupuncture Near Me for Sjogren’s Disease in Los Angeles, West L.A.
Acupuncture and TCM offer holistic treatment for Sogren’s syndrome and other autoimmune diseases. An experienced acupuncture provider can create a personalized health care plan for each patient that addresses their unique needs and situation. Dr. Tan and Dr. Cai at Art of Wellness in West Los Angeles have over 35 years of experience helping patients get relief from symptoms like joint pain and fatigue, and improving their quality of life.
*This article is for education from the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine only. The education provided by this article is not approved by FDA to diagnose, prevent, treat and cure human diseases. It should not stop you from consulting with your physician for your medical conditions. Traditional Chinese Medicine is based on Qi, which is an invisible force that usually cannot be observed by modern science. Because science focuses on testing ideas about the natural world with evidence obtained through observation, these aspects of acupuncture can’t be studied by science. Therefore acupuncture and Chinese herbs are often not supported by double-blind, randomized trials, and they are considered alternative medicine therapies in the United States.
How to Treat Autoimmune Disorders With Acupuncture and TCM
By Qineng Tan, L.Ac., Ph.D. and Xiaomei Cai, L.Ac., Ph.D.
Autoimmune disorders are on the rise, and they can be difficult to diagnose and treat. Acupuncture and TCM offer relief from autoimmune disease symptoms, while addressing the root of what might cause autoimmune disorders.
What is an autoimmune disease? The human immune system creates a variety of antibodies that are designed to fight off bacteria, viral infections, cancer cells, and toxins. An autoimmune disorder occurs when your body’s immune system malfunctions in some way and creates antibodies that attack healthy cells instead of dangerous ones. Different autoimmune disorders cause damage or dysfunction in different organs or systems of the body.
A recent study, based in the UK, looked at 19 prevalent autoimmune diseases and found that autoimmune disorders affect about one in ten people (13% of women and 7% of men).
Another study published in Arthritis and Rheumatology a few years ago, found that the most common biomarker of autoimmune disease—a high number of antinuclear antibodies (ANA)—has risen significantly across the US population, and particularly among certain groups, including adolescents, and people over 50. This study suggests that the chance of developing an autoimmune disorder is higher than ever.
Medical science has named over 80 different types of autoimmune diseases, but the understanding of what causes autoimmune disorders is still murky. Many people with autoimmune disorders go undiagnosed, and even when doctors are able to diagnose an autoimmune condition, there is no cure.
Autoimmune disorders do tend to run in families, which suggests that some people are more likely genetically disposed to develop an autoimmune disease. It is also common to have more than one autoimmune disorder concurrently. Having two or more autoimmune diseases is known as polyautoimmunity.
A few of the most common combinations of autoimmune disorders are:
- Scleroderma, autoimmune thyroid disease, and/or rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
- Myasthenia gravis and dermatitis herpetiformis
- Addison’s disease and vitiligo
TCM has treated many of these autoimmune disorders for centuries, although we may categorize them differently. The TCM view is that most autoimmune diseases are rooted in imbalances and deficiencies in the organ systems.
Stagnation of blood and Qi, and problems like excess heat and dampness in the body lead to inflammation, which is at the root of so many health problems. When systemic inflammation is reduced, the immune system can regain its proper functioning.
Acupuncture treatment is able to effect changes in the way cells are developing and functioning at the ectodermal and mesodermal layers. Acupuncture can stimulate the production of healthy cells, reduce inflammation, balance hormones, induce endorphin activity, and release peptides that improve immune function.
Top 20 Most Common Autoimmune Disorders
These are the most common autoimmune diseases, not necessarily in order. Some autoimmune disorders have significantly increased in numbers in recent years, including Celiac disease, Sjogren’s syndrome, and Graves disease. Some autoimmune conditions, like Hashimoto’s and pernicious anemia, seem to have decreased in numbers. Some autoimmune conditions have seasonal variations; for example, vitiligo is more commonly diagnosed in summer.
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Lupus – is an autoimmune disorder that disproportionately affects women and causes systemic inflammation, fatigue, swollen joints and limbs, and often a characteristic “butterfly rash” or “malar rash” across the face. Lupus flare-ups can be caused by stress or light exposure. According to TCM, lupus is often related to a build up of too much heat in the body, so acupuncture treatment for Lupus and herbal remedies will usually focus on removing blood stasis and clearing heat from the internal organs. TCM for Crohn’s can be used as an adjunct treatment, and may help people rely less on cortisone steroids to control inflammation.
- Crohn’s disease – is an autoimmune IBD (inflammatory bowel disease) that impacts the gastrointestinal tract, causing diarrhea, stomach pain, and bloody stool. Antibodies attack the gut bacteria that are normally a healthy part of digestion, causing inflammation and damage to the intestinal lining. Acupuncture treatment for Crohn’s disease can help reduce inflammation, repair tissues, and improve the balance of gut flora. It can also positively affect the parasympathetic nervous system that controls the action of the digestive tract, reducing stomach cramps and diarrhea.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis – an autoimmune disorder that causes joint pain and swelling, because antibodies attack the synovium, the soft tissue membranes that line joints. RA can also impact the blood vessels and cardiovascular system. RA can lead to bone loss over time, and people with RA are more prone to pneumonia and heart disease. TCM theory considers Rheumatoid arthritis to fall under the category of “Bi syndromes,” in which cold, wind and damp affect the body as pathogenic forces, causing blockages of Qi. Acupuncture can help reduce joint stiffness and pain.
- Graves disease – also known as hyperthyroidism, or overactive thyroid, Graves disease causes too much thyroid hormone to be produced, causing Graves disease symptoms like: goiter, enlarged thyroid, digestion problems, weight loss, tremors, sweating, insomnia, and infertility. Many people also have Graves ophthalmopathy, which causes bulging eyes, eye pressure, and blurred vision. TCM works to address yin deficiency and liver stagnation. Studies have shown that acupuncture and herbs can help balance the thyroid hormones.
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) – occurs when antibodies attack the myelin sheaths around nerves, leading to muscle weakness, numbness in limbs, dizziness, spasms, ataxia, or problems with balance, tremors, and trigeminal neuralgia (facial nerve pain). Acupuncture has been used to help relieve many of these symptoms of MS for hundreds of years, and can help improve and maintain motor skills.
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Celiac disease – is an autoimmune condition in which the body perceives dietary gluten to be a threat, triggering an immune response that creates inflammation and damage to the intestinal tract. Following a gluten free diet is important, and a TCM health practitioner is trained in nutrition to help patients make the necessary changes to ensure nourishment and prevent anemia. Acupuncture and herbs can also help repair intestinal tissues and bring down inflammation.
- Myasthenia Gravis – causes antibodies to attack nervous system receptors in the muscles, especially of the face, causing the eyelids to droop and making it difficult for a person to perform some movements related to the eyes, mouth, and throat. Muscle weakness and communications between the nervous system and the muscles can be helped with acupuncture treatment, and patients may be able to regain strength and reduce steroid usage.
- Scleroderma – is an autoimmune disease in which the body is producing too much collagen. Scleroderma causes hardening and thickening of the skin, and can affect connective tissues like cartilage. In extreme cases, Scleroderma can cause scarring on internal organs. TCM diagnosis may determine that Scleroderma is happening due to blood stagnation, and Chinese herbs have been shown to help manage collagen production.
- Hashimoto’s Disease or Hashimoto thyroiditis – also known as hypothyroidism, chronic thyroiditis, or low thyroid, Hashimoto’s causes too little thyroid hormone to be produced. Hashimoto’s low thyroid symptoms include: swollen thyroid, fatigue, weight gain, brain fog, and depression. Acupuncture addresses weak kidney and liver qi, and helps to balance TSH and thyroid hormone levels.
- Pernicious Anemia – is a specific type of autoimmune anemia that occurs when the intestinal lining is not able to absorb enough Vitamin B12. Aplastic anemia is another type of autoimmune anemia, in which antibodies are attacking the bone marrow, so it cannot produce enough blood cells. Acupuncture and TCM herbs can help boost blood deficiencies that cause anemia symptoms and help to repair the lining of the intestine to improve its function.
- Addison’s disease – also known as adrenal insufficiency, or adrenal fatigue, is an autoimmune disease that attacks the adrenal cortex, so that the body does not make enough cortisol. Addison’s disease symptoms include: fatigue, dehydration, loss of appetite, salt cravings, dizziness, low blood pressure, and joint pain. TCM views Addison’s primarily as a kidney deficiency that can be treated with acupuncture, herbs, and moxibustion to support kidney function.
- Vitiligo – an autoimmune disorder that affects melanin, or skin pigmentation, causing white patches on skin, and hair turning gray or white, and can affect eye color and vision. Acupuncture treatment and herbal remedies can be used as an alternative treatment for vitiligo, or as an adjunct to conventional treatments like light therapy and steroid medications, to help with repigmentation of skin and to help treat vitiligo at its roots.
- Ehlers-Danlos syndrome – affects the way the body produces collagen, leading to a connective tissues disorder, which in some cases creates hypermobile joints, stretchy and/or thin skin, and bruising. There are many different presentations of EDS, affecting different parts of the body. Acupuncture and Tuina massage can improve muscle tone, help with healing and reduce pain.
- Psoriasis – an autoimmune skin condition that causes too many skin cells to form, creating hard, scaly patches of skin, especially on the elbows and knees. As with many other autoimmune disorders, psoriasis tends to come and go; flare-ups can be triggered by a cut on the skin, an infection, or emotional stress. TCM theory says that psoriasis occurs due to pathogenic heat and dryness in the body; treatment will focus on strengthening lung Qi and clearing blood heat and stagnation.
- Autoimmune hepatitis – which has also been called plasma cell hepatitis or lupoid hepatitis, occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks liver cells, causing fatigue, abdominal pain, and joint pain. People who already have an autoimmune disease, including Type 1 diabetes, Celiac disease, or Graves disease, are more likely to develop autoimmune hepatitis. Acupuncture and herbs are excellent for helping to repair the liver and improve liver functioning.
- Dermatitis herpetiformis – also known as Dhuring’s disease, is a bumpy, blistered skin rash, similar in appearance to herpes sores or hives. This autoimmune skin condition is related to Celiac disease, flaring up when a person ingests gluten. Acupuncture helps to relieve inflammation and itchy skin and promote healing, while clearing heat and stagnation from the lungs, which are often connected to skin disorders.
- Ulcerative Colitis – is an IBD (inflammatory bowel disease), similar to Crohn’s disease, in which the immune system attacks the lining of the colon, causing sores and inflammation to develop, which leads to frequent diarrhea, abdominal pain, and bloating. TCM uses herbs and acupuncture to clear heat and dampness from the colon and promote healing of the intestinal tissues. Moxibustion can help relieve cramping and diarrhea.
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Autoimmune Encephalitis (AIE) – causes inflammation of brain tissues, causing severe headaches, brain fog, and neck pain and stiffness. This condition can develop in response to an infection. Anti-NMDAR encephalitis can be related to a tumor called a teteroma. TCM treats the internal heat that leads to fevers, infections, and inflammation with cooling herbs, and helps reestablish connections throughout the central nervous system.
- Type 1 Diabetes – is an autoimmune condition in which the cells of the pancreas do not function properly to produce insulin. About 5-10% of people with diabetes have this type. In TCM, diabetes is known as “Xiao Ke,” the wasting disease, and is believed to be due to too much heat and dampness accumulating in the organs. Acupuncture treatment can help improve pancreatic function and insulin production.
- Guillain-Barre syndrome – also known as “acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy” (AIDP), is an autoimmune and neurological condition in which antibodies attack the myelin sheaths that surround the nerves, causing muscular weakness, neuropathy and hypertension. A combination of acupuncture and moxibustion treatment can relieve nerve pain and help improve the strength and coordination of the muscles, while helping to encourage the growth and repair of nerves.
Other autoimmune disorders include: ankylosing spondylitis.
Can Acupuncture Help Autoimmune Disorders?
Inflammatory cytokines are part of the immune response that creates inflammation in the body as a way to get rid of invasive pathogens and promote healing when we are injured. When the immune system is not functioning properly, there is excess inflammation, and this is the root cause of many types of autoimmune disease.
Acupuncture treatment has been proven to have a positive biological effect on the production of these cytokines, and may also prevent immune system white blood cells called macrophages from turning into pro-inflammatory cells.
Other TCM modalities, like cupping, activate the immune system and help manage nitric oxide levels. Nitric oxide levels play a role in T-cell regulation, which affects inflammation of joints in patients with systemic lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
TCM treatment is a holistic way of treating autoimmune diseases that takes the whole person into consideration, treating physical symptoms of pain and stiffness, skin rashes, gastrointestinal distress, and more, while also helping to alleviate emotional and mental health problems like anxiety and depression. Acupuncture can also help improve cognitive function, memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and brain fog.
Acupuncture Near Me for Autoimmune Disorders in Los Angeles and Santa Monica
Autoimmune disorders require highly individualized treatment. If you or someone you know has an autoimmune disease, adding a highly experienced acupuncture practitioner to your healthcare team can make a big difference in your quality of life.
Drs. Cai and Tan and Art of Wellness in West Los Angeles have over 35 years of experience helping treat autoimmune disorders of all kinds. They can bring a new perspective to your healthcare plan and help you find relief from many autoimmune disorder symptoms.
*This article is for education from the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine only. The education provided by this article is not approved by FDA to diagnose, prevent, treat and cure human diseases. It should not stop you from consulting with your physician for your medical conditions. Traditional Chinese Medicine is based on Qi, which is an invisible force that usually cannot be observed by modern science. Because science focuses on testing ideas about the natural world with evidence obtained through observation, these aspects of acupuncture can’t be studied by science. Therefore acupuncture and Chinese herbs are often not supported by double-blind, randomized trials, and they are considered alternative medicine therapies in the United States.
How To Treat Addison’s Disease With Acupuncture and TCM
By Qineng Tan, L.Ac,. Ph.D. and Xiaomei Cai, L.Ac., Ph.D.
Always tired? Craving salty foods? Thirsty all the time? Adrenal fatigue? Addison’s disease is a condition in which the adrenal glands do not produce enough cortisol. Acupuncture and TCM can help to balance the adrenal hormones and relieve adrenal insufficiency symptoms.
Addison’s, also known as adrenal insufficiency, happens because of damage to the adrenal glands. What do the adrenal glands do? The adrenals are small glands that are located just above the kidneys. They produce hormones, including cortisol and aldosterone. These hormones are important in metabolic functions, and are also a big part of our stress response.
Cortisol is released from the adrenal glands into the bloodstream, and it aids in the body’s use of macronutrients: protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Cortisol regulates blood pressure and blood sugar levels, and it also gives us an extra energy boost when we need it because of sudden and/or stressful circumstances.
In many cases, Addison’s disease is the result of an autoimmune disorder. In these cases, the immune system mistakenly attacks the adrenal cortex, the part of the adrenal glands that produce cortisol and aldosterone.
In some parts of the world, tuberculosis infection is still common, and tuberculosis can lead to damage of the adrenal glands.
Other infectious diseases like HIV/AIDS, or fungal infections like histoplasmosis, can cause adrenal damage.
People with other autoimmune diseases may be more susceptible to developing Addison disorder, too. For example, Addison’s disease can happen concurrently with:
- Dermatitis herpetiformis
- Graves disease
- Type 1 diabetes
- Pernicious anemia
- Hashimoto’s disease, thyroiditis
- Vitiligo
- Myasthenia gravis
Some people may develop Addison’s disease in addition to having hypothyroidism or diabetes.
Addison’s Disease Symptoms
In the early stages, Addison’s disease symptoms may feel like a flu, causing fatigue, muscle weakness and joint pain. But as the illness progresses, these symptoms may become chronic.
Adrenal insufficiency symptoms include:
- Extreme fatigue
- Dehydration
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
- Darkening of skin in areas, hyperpigmentation, darkening of gums
- Blue-black color to skin around mouth, nipples, or genitals
- Low blood pressure, hypoglycemia
- Dizziness
- Fainting, light-headedness
- Craving salt
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea, vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Joint pain
- Muscle pain
- Depression
- Irritability
- Loss of body hair
- Sexual problems
- Irregular periods, no menstrual periods, missed periods
Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), has been found to be more common among those with Addison’s disease, with about 1 in 10 women with Addison’s going through early menopause (before 40).
In extreme situations, Addison’s sickness can lead to kidney failure, or going into shock. Early warning signs of adrenal crisis include nausea, fever, headache, and confusion. This sudden worsening of Addison’s disease is known as Adrenal crisis, and requires immediate medical attention.
Medical Treatment for Addison’s Disease
Accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for individuals with Addison’s disease.
A doctor will typically diagnose Addison’s disease through blood tests. These tests measure the levels of cortisol and aldosterone in the blood. Low levels of these hormones are indicative of adrenal insufficiency.
If blood tests suggest adrenal insufficiency, an ACTH stimulation test may be performed. In this test, synthetic adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) is administered, and cortisol levels in the blood are measured. Patients with Addison’s disease typically do not show a significant increase in cortisol after receiving ACTH.
The primary treatment for Addison’s disease involves hormone replacement therapy. Patients are prescribed synthetic cortisol (usually hydrocortisone or prednisone) to replace the insufficient natural cortisol production.
If aldosterone production is also insufficient, patients may be prescribed fludrocortisone to replace this hormone. This helps regulate salt and water balance in the body.
Dosage and frequency of cortisol replacement are adjusted to meet the specific needs of each patient. Patients often need to take multiple doses of medication daily to mimic the body’s natural cortisol rhythms.
These steroid medications can cause side effects like dizziness, nausea, and changes in the menstrual cycle.
Patients with Addison’s disease require ongoing medical supervision to monitor hormone levels, adjust medication as needed, and ensure that they are responding well to treatment.
Acupuncture offers an adjunct or alternative treatment for Addison’s disease that can help regulate hormones.
Can Acupuncture Help Addison’s Disease?
According to TCM theory, the kidneys are responsible for storing and controlling not only Qi, but “essence,” which represents a person’s foundational life force energy.
Addison’s disease, or adrenal insufficiency, is usually related to some variation of kidney deficiency according to TCM diagnosis.
Possible TCM diagnosis for Addison’s might be:
- kidney qi deficiency
- kidney yang deficiency
- kidney yin deficiency
- liver yin deficiency
- spleen blood deficiency
- spleen yang deficiency
By listening to a person’s range of symptoms, an acupuncturist will determine which pattern is emerging, and choose acupuncture points to bring energy and strength to the affected organs.
Moxibustion treatment is also an excellent modality to help build up Kidney Qi and blood.
Chinese herbs can help nourish and support kidney Qi.
For some people, acupuncture treatment and herbal supplements can be a good alternative treatment for Addison’s disease. For others, TCM treatment for adrenal insufficiency can be used as an adjunct to conventional treatment, and help to alleviate side effects of steroids, like dizziness, nausea, or menstrual changes.
Acupuncture Near Me for Addison’s Disease in West Los Angeles
Acupuncture can help address autoimmune diseases that are difficult for conventional medicine to treat. TCM modalities, including moxibustion and herbs, can provide a holistic treatment that works on the root level, restoring proper function of the immune system, as well as helping to relieve all kinds of symptoms.
Addison’s disease requires an individualized approach. Dr. Tan and Dr. Cai at Art of Wellness Acupuncture have over three decades of experience helping patients overcome all types of autoimmune disorders. Art of Wellness was recently named one of the top acupuncture practices in Los Angeles. Please do not hesitate to call us.
*This article is for education from the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine only. The education provided by this article is not approved by FDA to diagnose, prevent, treat and cure human diseases. It should not stop you from consulting with your physician for your medical conditions. Traditional Chinese Medicine is based on Qi, which is an invisible force that usually cannot be observed by modern science. Because science focuses on testing ideas about the natural world with evidence obtained through observation, these aspects of acupuncture can’t be studied by science. Therefore acupuncture and Chinese herbs are often not supported by double-blind, randomized trials, and they are considered alternative medicine therapies in the United States.
How to Treat Hashimoto’s Disease With Acupuncture and TCM
By Qineng Tan, L.Ac., Ph.D. and Xiaomei Cai, L.Ac., Ph.D.
Goiter, enlarged thyroid? Tired all the time, feeling weak, sensitive to cold? Constipation, weight gain, hair loss? These can all be hypothyroidism symptoms. Hashimoto’s disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes low thyroid symptoms. Acupuncture and TCM can offer an alternative hypothyroidism treatment and address Hashimoto’s thyroiditis symptoms.
Recent data shows that hypothyroidism is fairly common. In the U.S., where it was previously thought that about 5% of the population may have some signs of hypothyroidism, more recent research shows that that number is over 10%. While people of all ages can have signs of hypothyroidism, it is most common among women over 50.
The thyroid and the pituitary gland work to release various thyroid hormones that control metabolism and other processes. The primary thyroid hormones are thyroxine (T3) and triiodothyronine (T4); Thyrotropin (TSH) is the hormone that stimulates the production of T3 and T4.
The normal TSH level for most adults is in the range of 0.27 – 4.2 uIU/mL. Lower TSH levels are often a sign that the body is producing too much thyroid hormone, which leads to symptoms of hyperthyroidism, which is often due to Graves disease, which is also an autoimmune thyroid disorder.
When TSH levels are high, there is probably too little thyroid hormone, or low thyroid hormone levels. Hypothyroidism is considered “overt” when a person has high TSH levels and low T4 levels. A person is considered to have subclinical hypothyroidism when their TSH is elevated, but T4 is in the normal range.
Hashimoto’s disease, also known as chronic thyroiditis, is the most common cause of hypothyroidism, but because it is a slowly progressing autoimmune disorder, it can take years for symptoms for thyroid to show up.
Hypothyroidism causes, or risk factors for Hashimoto, include: genetics, changes in hormones during pregnancy, and the presence of other autoimmune diseases. It is possible to have Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and also have another autoimmune condition, such as Rheumatoid arthritis, Celiac Disease, Lupus, or Type 1 Diabetes.
In some cases, hypothyroidism can be caused by an iodine deficiency in the diet. This is rare in the U.S., though, and iodine supplementation is not helpful in cases of hypothyroidism that are not caused by a lack of iodine.
Acupuncture and TCM are excellent modalities for treating all kinds of autoimmune disorders, because they work holistically to treat both the root causes of the problem, and hypothyroid symptoms.
Top 10 Hashimoto Disease Symptoms
Signs of thyroid issues can take a long time to become severe enough that people notice them and seek diagnosis and treatment. Hypothyroidism symptoms can just seem like “normal” fatigue or other signs of aging.
Sometimes when people visit their primary care doctor, and they run a typical panel of blood tests, thyroid hormone levels are still in the normal range, so no treatment is recommended.
However, hypothyroidism symptoms typically come on gradually, and will likely get worse with time, as the disease progresses.
Hashimoto’s Disease Symptoms include:
- Fatigue, sluggishness, tired all the time
- Drowsiness, sleepy all the time
- Increased sensitivity to cold, feel cold all the time
- Dry skin, brittle nails, hair loss, puffy face
- Muscle pain, muscle stiffness, muscle weakness, joint pain, stiff joints
- Swollen thyroid, enlarged thyroid gland, goiter, swollen tongue
- Memory problems, difficulty concentrating, foggy head
- Change in menstrual cycle, irregular menstruation, heavy bleeding during period
- Weight gain
- Depression, mental health problems
If hypothyroidism is not treated, it can lead to serious complications. These may include: heart problems or cardiovascular diseases, like irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) and high cholesterol.
Hashimoto’s can cause problems with sexual function, libido, and fertility in both men and women.
In rare cases, people with untreated low thyroid levels can develop Myxedema. Myxedema is the term for advanced, severe hypothyroidism, which can lead to:
- Low blood pressure
- Low heart rate
- Low blood sodium levels
- Low blood oxygen levels
- Low body temperature (hypothermia)
- Mental confusion
In extreme cases, Myxedema can lead to a health crisis in which a person may go into shock, a coma, or seizures. Myxedema crisis requires immediate emergency care.
Hypothyroidism can develop slowly, with minimal symptoms. However, it is important to get proper diagnosis and treatment for Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. As time goes on, untreated hypothyroidism can lead to more complications.
Medical Treatment for Hashimoto’s Disease
Getting a diagnosis for Hashimoto’s disease will usually involve a series of blood tests. As an autoimmune disorder, Hashimoto involves the production of antibodies that mistakenly attack healthy cells. In the case of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an antibody test may show that the immune system is making TSO antibodies. Thyroid peroxidase (TSO) a protein that is vital to the production of thyroid hormone.
In addition, blood tests will show if there is elevated TSH and/or low levels of T4. If a person has symptoms, or an enlarged thyroid gland, and high TSH levels, then a diagnosis of Hashimoto’s may be made, whether or not the T4 levels are low.
An ultrasound can indicate that there is swelling or inflammation in the thyroid gland.
Hypothyroidism Medication
The usual treatment for Hashimoto’s disease is hormone replacement. Levothyroxine, under the brand names Levoxyl, or Synthroid, is usually given in pill form. This hypothyroid medication mimics the action of T4 hormone.
For many patients, medications for low thyroid will help to stabilize the TSH and T4 levels, and symptoms will improve. However, for some people, the continued autoimmune disorder process continues to cause symptoms, even when thyroid hormone levels are in the normal range.
In these cases, doctors may recommend surgery. A thyroidectomy involves the removal of some or all of the thyroid gland. After a thyroid surgery, a person will need to continue taking thyroid hormone replacement medication, as they will not produce any without the thyroid gland.
Acupuncture and TCM treatment offer an alternative or adjunct therapy for Hashimoto’s disease, which can help improve immune function and address symptoms.
Can Acupuncture Help Hashimoto’s?
Acupuncture works by harmonizing the Qi (life force energy) of the organ systems of the body. When Qi is out of balance, then some bodily processes happen in excess, and others are deficient. A TCM practitioner observes and listens carefully to each person’s individual experience of symptoms to discover which organs are out of balance.
In the case of hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s, deficiency of Qi and blood can be building up over a long period of time, and gradually begin to impact organs: mainly, the kidneys, spleen, and heart.
For a while, while the condition is still what conventional medicine considers to be subclinical hypothyroidism, the spleen Qi is weak, and causes some symptoms, like weakness and fatigue.
Then, as the situation progresses, the kidney Qi is affected, and more symptoms begin to occur. Yang Qi is not able to warm the organs enough, so dampness and cold begin to accumulate. This causes symptoms like constipation, swollen joints, brain fog, and memory problems.
Chronic kidney and liver qi deficiency can cause menstrual problems, and infertility.
If the problem continues, then the heart is affected, too, and cardiovascular symptoms begin to arise, like palpitations, respiratory problems, and low blood pressure.
The acupuncturist deduces from the pattern of symptoms which organs are affected, and then uses acupuncture treatment, herbs, and other modalities like cupping or moxibustion to bring more energy to depleted areas and help nourish them.
Can TCM cure hypothyroidism? Not exactly, but research has shown that acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment for thyroid disorders, whether it is used as an alternative medicine for Hashimoto’s disease, or as an adjunct therapy.
Case studies have shown that regular acupuncture treatment can help stabilize thyroid hormone levels, slow the progression of the autoimmune disease, reduce symptoms, and improve quality of life.
For those who are trying to conceive and are struggling with infertility issues due to thyroid disorders, acupuncture can be a holistic treatment that helps balance hormones and improve fertility. Acupuncture treatment may help prevent miscarriage due to autoimmune conditions.
Acupuncture can also be helpful for pain management after a thyroidectomy procedure.
Acupuncture Near Me for Hashimoto’s Disease – West Los Angeles Area
Acupuncture is an excellent modality for helping to treat many autoimmune diseases and thyroid conditions, including Graves disease, hyperthyroidism, and chronic fatigue syndrome. TCM can also help with menopause and perimenopausal symptoms, which often occur concurrently with hypothyroidism in women over 50. Acupuncture can also help with all kinds of mental health problems like depression and anxiety, which may be related to underlying physical conditions.
*This article is for education from the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine only. The education provided by this article is not approved by FDA to diagnose, prevent, treat and cure human diseases. It should not stop you from consulting with your physician for your medical conditions. Traditional Chinese Medicine is based on Qi, which is an invisible force that usually cannot be observed by modern science. Because science focuses on testing ideas about the natural world with evidence obtained through observation, these aspects of acupuncture can’t be studied by science. Therefore acupuncture and Chinese herbs are often not supported by double-blind, randomized trials, and they are considered alternative medicine therapies in the United States.