acupuncture for digestion
Acupuncture is an effective treatment modality for any type of indigestion, upset stomach or dyspepsia. In Chinese medicine, the Liver, Spleen/Stomach, Large Intestine, and Small Intestine energetic organ systems can be involved in digestive issues. Indigestion is marked by a discomfort or a burning feeling in the upper abdomen, often accompanied by nausea, abdominal bloating, belching, and sometimes vomiting. Some people also use the term indigestion to describe the symptom of heartburn. or poorly formed bowel movements; the type of digestive disorder you suffer with will determine the type of treatment the acupuncturist will perform./p>
Indigestion might be the result of a disease in the digestive tract such as an ulcer or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), but for many people, it is caused by eating too much, eating too quickly, eating high-fat foods, or eating during stressful situations. Smoking, drinking too much alcohol, using medications that irritate the stomach lining, being tired, and having ongoing stress can also cause indigestion or make it worse. Many patients that we see have developed stomach problems as a side effect of phatmaceutical medications.
Some people have persistent indigestion that is not related to any of these factors. This type of indigestion, called functional or non-ulcer dyspepsia, may be caused by a problem in the muscular squeezing action of the stomach (motility). This type of indigestion responds especially well to acupuncture therapy. Luckily, Chinese medicine has its own system of diagnosis, and it is not necessary to have a Western medical diagnosis in order to alleviate digestive disorders that are unexplained.
To diagnose indigestion in a Western medical clinic, a doctor might perform tests for problems, like ulcers. In the process of diagnosis, a person may have X-rays of the stomach and small intestine or undergo an endoscopy, in which the doctor uses an instrument to look at the inside of the stomach. Unfortunately, Western medicine does not have easy solutions for weak digestion or general indigestion.
Avoiding the foods and situations that seem to cause indigestion in some cases is the most successful way to treat it. Heartburn caused by acid reflux is usually improved by treatment with antacids, H2-blockers, or proton pump inhibitors. Smokers can help relieve their indigestion by quitting smoking, or at least not smoking right before eating. Exercising with a full stomach may cause indigestion, so scheduling exercise before a meal or at least an hour afterward might help.
To treat indigestion caused by a functional problem in the digestive tract, the doctor may prescribe medicine that affects stomach motility. Because indigestion can be a sign of, or mimic, a more serious disease, people should see a Western medical doctor if they have the following:
- Chronic vomiting, weight loss, or appetite loss
- Black tarry stools or blood in vomit
- Severe pain in the upper right abdomen
- Discomfort unrelated to eating
- Indigestion accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, or pain radiating to the jaw, neck, or arm
- Symptoms that persist for more than 2 weeks
Most people who show up at Charlotte Community Acupuncture with digestive issues have been unable to resolve their indigestion, stomach pain, or other digestive problems through over the counter medications, or through pharmaceutical medications. While most people think of acupuncture as a viable solution for structual pain or injury, most do not know that acupuncture is a viable solution for digestive disorders.
