Acupuncture therapy has the potential to treat a wide range of health conditions, including immune deficiency, by stimulating and balancing the immune system. Acupuncture can strengthen a weakened immune system by increasing red and white cell counts, T-cell count and enhancing humoral and cellular immunity in patients with immune-related illness.
A compromised or dysfunctional immune system is a major component of most chronic diseases. Poor nutrition, stress and exposure to harmful agents all lead to a declining immune system. Once compromised, a weak immune system results in frequent colds, allergies, and reoccurring infections. Immunity related disorders include: Common colds and allergies, asthma, chronic fatigue, hepatitis, AIDS, autoimmune disease, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, psoriasis, and immune deficiency syndrome.
Most allopathic health care is directed toward relieving symptoms rather than treating the underlying cause of the disease, which may include toxins, chronic viral infections, or a combination. Conventional treatments for overactive immune system disorders such as allergies and autoimmune diseases such as arthritis often include treatments aimed at suppressing the immune system through medication. Although useful for limiting symptoms and managing pain, this does not result in a cure. Side effects and other adverse symptoms may develop after long-term use of these suppressive drugs.
Acupuncture can regulate immune function and treat the underlying cause of the disease by reducing symptoms, speeding up the healing of infection and normalizing the body’s immune response. It works by stimulating specific portions of the autonomic nervous system through selected acupoints, which in turn causes responses in the immune system. Acupuncture can increase blood levels of interferon, one of the immune system’s messenger hormones. For more information about acupuncture therapy for the treatment of asthma, allergies, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and colds contact Dr. Richard Browne at (305) 595-9500.
