How acupuncture can help respiratory disorders

People who suffer from respiratory disorders such as asthma, allergies, bronchitis and emphysema report a reduction in symptoms after regular acupuncture treatments. Here is an overview of how acupuncture can offer relief for some of the most common respiratory ailments.

Acupuncture treatments can offer substantial relief for a range of respiratory health issues. The school of thought behind acupuncture is that the body has a series of meridians or energy channels through which life-force energy flows. When one or more of these channels becomes blocked, imbalance and illness can result. Acupuncture helps to restore optimal balance to the body's meridian system and address illness at its roots.

• How acupuncture helps with asthma. Asthma involves both inflammation of the airway and bronchial constriction from a muscle response in the airway. Acupuncture helps the body produce natural anti-inflammatory agents while also relaxing the body's nervous system and airway muscles. A reduction in symptoms is possible with ongoing acupuncture treatments. It can also help to reduce stress and limit any potential environmental triggers for your asthma.
• How acupuncture relieves allergies. Acupuncture helps to relax the body and decrease the histamine response to both natural and chemical allergens. After a series of acupuncture treatments, the body will develop a resistance to the irritants so that allergy symptoms become less of an issue, allowing you to breathe easier.
• Acupuncture for bronchitis relief. Bronchitis is characterized by an inflammation of the airway. It can be caused by bacterial infections, viruses and inhaled chemicals or other irritants. A cough, congestion and chest pain/heaviness may be primary symptoms. Acupuncture can help reduce inflammation and relax the coughing reflex, easing symptoms and allowing the airway and bronchi to heal.
• How acupuncture eases emphysema. Emphysema is the breakage of air sac walls within the lungs. This can result in swelling that can restrict air movement in the lungs. Emphysema is especially exacerbated by smoking. While acupuncture is not a cure for emphysema, it can help to relax the chest and lungs, making respiration easier.

Many acupuncture recipients have reported positive benefits for their respiratory issues. If you are seeking acupuncture, find a practitioner who is experienced in treating respiratory issues and commit to a series of treatments.