Lyme's Disease,acupuncture, herbs and suggested lifestyle changes is beneficial in treating Lyme's disease, Acupuncture Herbal Center, San Rafael, California, BELL’S PALSY HAS POSITIVE RESULTS WITH ACUPUNCTURE

LYME'S DISEASE

Traditional Chinese medicine: acupuncture, herbs and suggested lifestyle changes is beneficial in treating Lyme's disease (LD). When we see a patient afflicted with Lyme's disease, we look at the individual's pattern of imbalances. In most cases, through tongue and pulse diagnosis we can detect the root imbalance(s) that have been affected by the spirochete. Each patient has its own unique pattern. Usually we see three stages. In the initial stage, LD is classified as Fire Toxin, similar to an acute infection such as common cold or influenza- flu-like symptoms. The initial pattern turns into a damp heat toxin that has entered the body. At this stage the immune system responds strongly, exhibiting a red tongue with a greasy yellow coating, and a floating, rapid pulse. There may be musculoskeletal symptoms, such as loss of strength, low back, knee and joint pain. Another possible symptom is tinnitus.

The second stage is one of heat toxins with qi deficiency. The pathogen is stronger than in the first stage, and the body is somewhat weaker. The tongue is less red and more swollen, signifying more spleen deficiency. The pulse may be floating, with yang energy deficiency, because the yin energy is being consumed by trying to ward off the pathogen. Therefore, it is important to diagnose this disease as early as possible to prevent further damage to the body's internal balance.

When this condition progresses to the deepest stage, profound qi, blood and yin deficiency are noted. Signs and symptoms would include extreme fatigue, loss of strength, tinnitus, low back pain, knee pain and swelling, dry mouth and throat, five-center heat, malar flushing, hair loss, memory loss, confusion and decreased physiological activity.

This complicated clinical picture requires the use of herbs. The patient experiences both strong excesses due to the body's response in fighting this disease and potentially serious immune deficiencies. Thus the treatment may be best approached with customized herbal concoctions. Some patent preparations may be used as a supplement to the custom-blended herb formulas.

There are many alternative treatments for Lyme's disease. We believe that a simple detoxification program in conjunction with Chinese medicine is beneficial. Herbs are especially useful in strengthening the immune system. Dietary recommendations are an increased alkaline diet to help reduce the inflammatory response. Acupuncture and herbs are helpful to reduce the toxic load in the system. When one is tring to ward off a pathogen, our belief is to decrease one's stress level through acupuncture, yoga, massage and meditation.