Can Acupuncture Help with Excessive Saliva and Related Issues?

Q: Can Acupuncture Help with Excessive Saliva and Related Issues?

First, you have raised three questions： 1. Acupuncture has a certain degree of therapeutic relief for insomnia. 2. Regarding depression, it can generally provide significant alleviation of symptoms. 3. If there is excessive salivary gland secretion not caused

I would like to ask about acupuncture issues?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask a question, but please forgive me if it offends you.
This has been a troubling issue for me for many years.
I have heard that acupuncture can treat insomnia and depression.
My symptom is that I have an abnormal increase in saliva production compared to others.
I have been examined by related specialists without any effective results.
Can acupuncture help alleviate or eliminate this symptom?

hen wei zheng zhuang kun rao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/07/29

Dr. Qiu Shuize reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

First, you have raised three questions: 1.
Acupuncture has a certain degree of therapeutic relief for insomnia.
2.
Regarding depression, it can generally provide significant alleviation of symptoms.
3.
If there is excessive salivary gland secretion not caused by an organ disease, it is worth considering whether there are related symptoms of physiological or psychological imbalance, which also need to be assessed through a comprehensive diagnosis to determine the true cause.

To achieve a fundamental cure for insomnia, if it is chronic and the patient is using Western medication for sleep, acupuncture or a combination with traditional Chinese medicine may help reduce the dosage of Western medication in a short period.
According to traditional Chinese medicine theory, imbalances in the yin and yang of the internal organs can lead to sleep issues.
Therefore, treatment methods should be considered based on these principles to alleviate or eliminate depression.
From the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine, depression is primarily classified as an emotional disorder; however, patients often present with a mix of deficiency and excess symptoms over time.

Additionally, the patient's own emotions, stress, lifestyle, and environment, as well as their values and life challenges, will continually test the ability of healthcare providers, patients, families, and society to offer support.

Reply Date: 2010/07/29

More Info

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that has been used for thousands of years to treat various health conditions. It involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow, known as "Qi." While acupuncture is widely recognized for its effectiveness in pain management, stress relief, and conditions such as insomnia and depression, its application for excessive saliva production, or sialorrhea, is less commonly discussed.

Excessive saliva production can be caused by a variety of factors, including neurological conditions, medication side effects, oral health issues, and even anxiety. In cases where conventional treatments have been ineffective, acupuncture may offer a complementary approach. The mechanism by which acupuncture may help with excessive saliva involves its ability to influence the autonomic nervous system, which regulates involuntary bodily functions, including salivation.

Research has suggested that acupuncture can help modulate salivary secretion. For instance, studies have indicated that acupuncture may reduce the activity of the salivary glands, potentially leading to decreased saliva production. Specific acupuncture points, such as those located on the face and neck, may be targeted to address issues related to the salivary glands. Points like ST6 (Jiache) and LI4 (Hegu) are often used in treatments related to facial and oral health.

In addition to directly addressing excessive saliva production, acupuncture may also help alleviate associated symptoms such as anxiety or stress, which can exacerbate the condition. By promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels, acupuncture may indirectly contribute to a decrease in saliva production.

However, it is essential to approach acupuncture as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Consulting with a qualified acupuncturist who has experience treating similar conditions is crucial. They can assess your specific situation, identify relevant acupuncture points, and tailor a treatment plan to your needs. It is also advisable to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider about any complementary therapies you are considering.

While acupuncture may provide relief for some individuals, results can vary. Some people may experience significant improvement, while others may find minimal effects. Therefore, it is essential to set realistic expectations and be patient, as acupuncture often requires multiple sessions to achieve optimal results.

In summary, acupuncture may offer a potential avenue for managing excessive saliva production and related issues, particularly when conventional treatments have not been effective. By targeting specific acupuncture points and addressing underlying stress or anxiety, it may help regulate salivary secretion and improve overall well-being. If you are considering acupuncture, consult with a licensed practitioner and discuss it with your healthcare provider to ensure a coordinated approach to your health care.

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