Traditional Chinese Medicine Approaches for Managing Diabetes, Hypertension, and Cholesterol
Diabetes, hypertension, cholesterol? Hello, doctor. Recently, during an adult health check-up, I discovered that I have issues with the three highs (hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and hyperglycemia). I would like to ask how traditional Chinese medicine treats these conditions and ...
Dr. Yan Sumei Reply:
Dear LKK, Thank you for your letter. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treats the "three highs" (hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia) by tailoring different prescriptions based on individual constitution. For hypertension, the focus is on clearing the blood pa...[Read More] Traditional Chinese Medicine Approaches for Managing Diabetes, Hypertension, and Cholesterol
Understanding Knee Pain: Insights from Traditional Chinese Medicine
Knee pain Hello Dr. Yan, I had a car accident at the end of 2017, during which I sustained a bruise on my right knee and received immediate treatment. Concerned about potential issues with the knee joint, I went to an orthopedic clinic for an X-ray. After the orthopedic physicia...
Dr. Yan Sumei Reply:
Dear Online Friend Ah Xiang, Thank you for your letter. Every experience leaves a mark; a knee that has been injured may heal, but it will not return to its original state. Just like a cut from a knife leaves a scar, the tissues beneath the skin also bear the effects. Even now, ...[Read More] Understanding Knee Pain: Insights from Traditional Chinese Medicine
Can Gui Lu Er Xian Jiao Help with Plantar Fasciitis and Knee Pain?
Gui Lu Er Xian Jiao Dear Dr. Yan: I have mild plantar fasciitis, and I experience pain in my right knee when going down stairs or squatting (is this considered inflammation?). Is it appropriate to take Gui Lu Er Xian Jiao to adjust my muscles and bones? Thank you for your respons...
Dr. Yan Sumei Reply:
Dear Linda, You may take a small amount of Gui Lu Er Xian Jiao, and if you do not experience any discomfort, you can gradually increase the dosage. However, if you experience plantar fasciitis or increased knee pain, you should discontinue the medication. Wishing you peace and ...[Read More] Can Gui Lu Er Xian Jiao Help with Plantar Fasciitis and Knee Pain?
Does Gui Lu Er Xian Jiao Really Repair Joints? Expert Insights
Gui Lu Er Xian Jiao Dear Doctor: Does Gui Lu Er Xian Jiao have the effect of repairing bones and muscles? Is its efficacy quite good? Recently, I am considering purchasing the Huatuo brand "medicinal grade" version containing two ingredients (tortoise shell and deer ant...
Dr. Yan Sumei Reply:
Dear Linda, Gui Lu Er Xian Jiao has effects in preventing and treating osteoporosis, increasing bone density, anti-aging, and combating fatigue. It is effective for maintaining the health of your limbs and joints; however, if the joints are already worn or deformed, Gui Lu Er X...[Read More] Does Gui Lu Er Xian Jiao Really Repair Joints? Expert Insights
Concerns About Chinese Herbs and Western Medications for Heart Health
The questions regarding Fuzi (Aconite), Zhenwu Decoction, and Western medicine? Hello Dr. Yan, I have been experiencing occasional numbness and pain in my trapezius muscle, as well as dizziness (non-rotational) for the past two to three years. I consulted a traditional Chinese me...
Dr. Yan Sumei Reply:
Dear Mr. Zhang, I understand your concerns about the potential impact of traditional Chinese medicine on your cardiovascular issues. If you are very worried, it may be best to discontinue the use of Chinese medicine for now. Instead, you could consider acupuncture or tui na (Chi...[Read More] Concerns About Chinese Herbs and Western Medications for Heart Health
Can Traditional Chinese Medicine Cure Trigger Finger Without Surgery?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatment Hello Doctor: I have developed carpal tunnel syndrome and trigger finger due to my previous job, which required lifting heavy objects and frequent use of my hands. However, after undergoing rehabilitation, my carpal tunnel syndrome has...
Dr. Yan Sumei Reply:
Dear Jason, If you are doing cleaning work and experiencing trigger finger, it's important to allow the affected area to rest. While traditional Chinese medicine or acupuncture can be beneficial, a professional TCM practitioner will do their best to assist you. However, re...[Read More] Can Traditional Chinese Medicine Cure Trigger Finger Without Surgery?
Do Herbal Remedies Interact with Birth Control Pills?
Is there a conflict between traditional Chinese medicine and contraceptive pills? Hello, doctor. I am taking herbal medicine for weight loss and would like to know if it will have any effects when taken together with oral contraceptives. The herbal ingredients include: Gynostemma...
Dr. Yan Sumei Reply:
Dear anonymous user: There are currently no research reports on potential interactions between weight loss medications and contraceptives, and this remains an unknown area. To avoid possible side effects, it is recommended to take them at least one hour apart. Wishing you health ...[Read More] Do Herbal Remedies Interact with Birth Control Pills?
Consulting Traditional Chinese Medicine: Stopping Herbal Treatment Safely
Traditional Chinese Medicine Consultation Hello, doctor. I have been taking Chinese medicine for several months, and the symptoms I was concerned about have generally improved. However, I have not yet received any indication from the doctor about when the treatment will conclude....
Dr. Yan Sumei Reply:
Dear online friend Jam: If your symptoms have alleviated and you wish to stop taking the medication, it is acceptable to do so, as traditional Chinese medicine does not have the same side effects as antibiotics. However, it is advisable to seek your attending physician's con...[Read More] Consulting Traditional Chinese Medicine: Stopping Herbal Treatment Safely
Understanding Lower Back Pain and Thigh Muscle Soreness in Athletes
Lower back pain and anterior thigh soreness? Hello doctor, I am a high school sprinter, but recently I developed lumbar fasciitis due to overtraining. However, I don't understand why my quadriceps are sore, especially when sitting. Could you please explain the reason, doctor...
Dr. Lü Bingcheng Reply:
Dear Xu, Regarding the issue you raised, my response is as follows: Firstly, it is noted that prolonged practice of sprinting has led to lower back pain (fasciitis) along with anterior thigh muscle soreness. I have the following opinions: 1. Have you sought medical attentio...[Read More] Understanding Lower Back Pain and Thigh Muscle Soreness in Athletes
Understanding Traditional Chinese Medicine for Erectile Dysfunction: A Patient's Guide
Medication Consultation for Erectile Dysfunction Hello, I recently consulted a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioner regarding sexual function issues. My main symptoms include the ability to achieve an erection, but sometimes I feel a lack of strength; at times, after a...
Dr. Zhuang Yihui Reply:
Hello, sir: Basically, these medications are suitable for the issues you are treating, so you can take them with confidence. Since traditional Chinese medicine diagnosis relies on the four diagnostic methods for differential diagnosis, it is best to consult with a physician in pe...[Read More] Understanding Traditional Chinese Medicine for Erectile Dysfunction: A Patient's Guide
Understanding Oral Discomfort: Causes and Remedies in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Oral issues Hello doctor, today I accidentally licked the inner gum of my lower jaw with my tongue and felt some slight pain. What could this be? Thank you for your clarification!
Dr. Lü Bingcheng Reply:
Dear user, I hope you are well. Regarding the question you raised, here is my response: If you accidentally licked the inner gum of your lower jaw with your tongue and felt some pain, what could be the situation? Based on your inquiry, I have the following suggestions: 1. I rec...[Read More] Understanding Oral Discomfort: Causes and Remedies in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Managing Floaters: Traditional Chinese Medicine Insights for Eye Health
Floaters issue Hello, Doctor. I have been suffering from hyperthyroidism for six years and have been on medication during this time. Currently, my dosage has been reduced to twice a week. I have also been experiencing floaters in my eyes for ten years, but the symptoms were not s...
Dr. Yan Sumei Reply:
Dear User, Thank you for your message. Your concerns are very insightful. I recommend consulting a professional Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioner for a pulse diagnosis to assess whether your condition is suitable for the herbal remedies you mentioned. In addition t...[Read More] Managing Floaters: Traditional Chinese Medicine Insights for Eye Health
Managing High Triglycerides: Can Traditional Chinese Medicine Help?
A question about triglycerides? Hello, Dr. Yan. Regarding the triglyceride test result of 333 mg/dL, while other biochemical test items may not be ideal, they are all within normal ranges. The doctor did not prescribe any medication but reiterated the importance of dietary attent...
Dr. Yan Sumei Reply:
Dear Mr. Zhang, Hello! The medication you are taking, Rosuvastatin, can also help regulate triglycerides. If you would like to seek additional treatment from a Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner, that is certainly an option. Wishing you health and safety! Sincerely, Ye...[Read More] Managing High Triglycerides: Can Traditional Chinese Medicine Help?
Understanding Sisi Liver Protection Capsules: Benefits and Concerns
Regarding... Silymarin Liver Protection Capsules: Milk Thistle... Questions? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about Silymarin liver protection capsules. Question 1: I have hepatitis B and would like to know if this product, which contains milk thistle, can be taken long-term....
Dr. Yan Sumei Reply:
Dear Moses, Thank you for your letter. Milk thistle is a traditional herbal remedy from Europe, and its active component for liver protection is silymarin. Silymarin stabilizes liver cell membranes and improves liver function, showing good efficacy in treating acute and chronic ...[Read More] Understanding Sisi Liver Protection Capsules: Benefits and Concerns
Understanding Blood-Tinged Discharge During Ovulation: What to Do?
Blood-tinged discharge may begin during the ovulation period? Hello Doctor, after my last menstrual period ended, during the ovulation phase, I noticed what I thought was normal ovulation bleeding, but it turned out to be blood-tinged discharge. Since the ovulation phase started,...
Dr. Yan Sumei Reply:
Dear online friend Zhenzhen: You have been experiencing ovulation bleeding for 46 days, with no signs of cessation. It is advisable to seek medical attention as soon as possible, either from an obstetrician-gynecologist or a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner. Don't l...[Read More] Understanding Blood-Tinged Discharge During Ovulation: What to Do?
Understanding Dry Mouth, Gastrointestinal Discomfort, and Body Aches in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Dry mouth, gastrointestinal discomfort, and soreness? Hello, I have observed for a long time that I frequently experience dry mouth and throat, sometimes accompanied by severe bad breath, headaches, body aches, gastrointestinal discomfort, insomnia, fatigue, and low energy. My mo...
Dr. Lü Bingcheng Reply:
Dear user, I hope you are well. Regarding the issues you raised about dry mouth, gastrointestinal discomfort, and muscle pain, my response is as follows: Based on your mention of dry mouth, bad breath, gastrointestinal discomfort, sleep disturbances, fatigue, and lower back or cl...[Read More] Understanding Dry Mouth, Gastrointestinal Discomfort, and Body Aches in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine Approaches for Submandibular Tumors
Submandibular gland mucocele The urine is dark yellow. About 20 days ago, a tumor approximately 1 cm in size was found on the cartilage 3 cm from the left side of the jaw. It has a soft texture with a hard base. Currently, the patient is taking a traditional Chinese medicine form...
Dr. Hou Yuchang Reply:
Hello: If it is a fixed and non-mobile lesion, it is advisable for the ENT department to perform direct excision and send the specimen for pathological examination. Wishing you peace, health, and well-being. Respectfully, Dr. Hou Yu-Chang, Director of the Traditional Chinese Medi...[Read More] Traditional Chinese Medicine Approaches for Submandibular Tumors
Understanding Eye Fatigue and Back Pain: Insights from Traditional Chinese Medicine
I would like to ask? Hello, I would like to ask: 1. This morning when I woke up, I couldn't open my eyes for some reason. At that time, I felt weak all over, and my hands were numb. 2. Sometimes I experience mild pain in my upper back. I previously consulted a traditional Ch...
Dr. Lü Bingcheng Reply:
Dear user, I hope you are well. Regarding the issue you raised, here is my response: First, you mentioned that upon waking, you have difficulty opening your eyes, feel weak all over, experience numbness in your hands, and have mild pain in your upper back, coinciding with the ons...[Read More] Understanding Eye Fatigue and Back Pain: Insights from Traditional Chinese Medicine
Managing Ankle Pain and Numbness: Traditional Chinese Medicine Insights
Swelling, pain, and numbness in the ankle? Hello, doctor. I originally had an old injury in my foot. About two months ago, I experienced swelling and pain on both the inner and outer sides of my left ankle, and I felt numbness when lightly touching the front of my left ankle. Ini...
Dr. Liang Zhihuan Reply:
Dear Ms. Yvonne, I apologize for the delay in checking in with you regarding your issue. I would like to confirm that if the pain and numbness you are experiencing occur only during the acupuncture process, it is generally not a cause for concern. However, if the numbness and pa...[Read More] Managing Ankle Pain and Numbness: Traditional Chinese Medicine Insights
Understanding Skin Allergies: Insights from Traditional Chinese Medicine
Skin allergy Hello, Dr. Chuang! Earlier, I occasionally had allergic rashes around my mouth, but I didn't think much of it as it would flare up infrequently. However, I didn't see a doctor... As a result, over the past year, it started with itching on the tip of my nose...
Dr. Zhuang Yihui Reply:
Hello Ms. Janice: The rash around your lips often reflects a condition of excess heat in the spleen and stomach. Therefore, you might want to consider whether your diet includes a lot of grilled, fried, spicy foods, snacks, or cookies, or if you tend to consume more warming foods...[Read More] Understanding Skin Allergies: Insights from Traditional Chinese Medicine