Acupuncture for Bronchitis
April 30th, 2009
Bronchitis is a respiratory disorder which causes the lungs’ bronchial passages and membrane to become inflamed and swollen, narrowing the lung airways. As the airways narrow, coughing spells and breathlessness occur, accompanied by phlegm. Bronchitis may be acute, lasting less than six weeks or may be chronic.
Often, bronchitis is caused by a viral infection or may be bacterial in origin. Acute bronchitis is most often caused by viral lung infections. Chronic bronchitis may be caused by cigarette smoking and atmospheric and industrial pollutants. Cases of chronic bronchitis may also result from acute bronchitis. Over time, bronchial airways may become weakened and irritated from repeated cases of acute bronchitis.
Wheezing, fever, low energy, tightness in the chest, chest pain, and cough are the primary symptoms of bronchitis. Conventional therapies for acute and chronic bronchitis include: Rest, fluid intake, avoiding fumes and smoke, cough syrup, bronchodilators, and steroids to reduce inflammation.
Acupuncture can prevent future bronchial attacks and can improve lung function. Acupuncture and Chinese herbal formulas can be combined to treat acute cases of bronchitis to cure the infection, clear phlegm and strengthen the lungs.
Acupuncture can facilitate breathing by opening the lung airways and stimulating the lung tissue to function more efficiently. Acupuncture restores respiratory muscle tone, improves contractility and mobility of the diaphragm and can reduce dependence on medications in both acute and chronic cases of bronchitis.
From the traditional Chinese medicine perspective, bronchitis may be caused by external pathogenic factors (seasonal pathogens) or by interior pathogenic factors (internal organ disorders). Acute bronchitis most often results from seasonal pathogens; chronic bronchitis is often produced by interior pathogenic factors.
Acupuncture can strengthen the immune system in cases of both acute and chronic bronchitis, aiding the body’s natural defenses to resolve the disorder imbalance. Acupuncture also is very effective in clearing phlegm, which can reduce wheezing and coughing. Acupuncture and Chinese herbal formulas can strengthen the energetic system of the lungs.
For individuals who regularly experience acute attacks of bronchitis, regular acupuncture treatment during the attack and afterwards can ensure immune system and lung respiratory efficiency. Maintenance acupuncture treatments on a regular basis may be recommended by your acupuncture physician.
Chinese herbal formulas can strengthen the effects of acupuncture therapy without causing adverse side effects such as insomnia and drowsiness.
For more information about acupuncture for the treatment of bronchitis call Dr. Richard Browne, Acupuncture Physician, at (305) 595-9500.
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