Understanding the Benefits of Warm Water for Health and Wellness
Body health maintenance issues? Hello, doctor: Due to my long-term physical weakness, when I feel unwell, doctors or elders often advise me to drink warm water. I have the following two questions: 1. Does warm water really help alleviate discomfort? What are the effects of warm w...
Dr. Yan Sumei reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Dear anonymous user: Whether to drink warm water or cold water has been a topic of much debate, leaving many confused. Recently, I found a webpage that explains this topic well, and I have listed it below for your reference. https://healthylives.tw/article/3921 Wishing you peace ...[Read More] Understanding the Benefits of Warm Water for Health and Wellness
Understanding Dry Mouth: Symptoms and Traditional Remedies for Relief
Dry mouth and dry tongue? I have recently been experiencing severe dry mouth and throat issues. My previous lifestyle was irregular, but now I sleep 10 hours a day and have regular meals at set times and portions. It's been a month, but there has been no significant improvem...
Dr. Yan Sumei reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Dear online friend Lin xx: You are experiencing bad breath, stomach noises while lying down at night, and hard stools, which may indicate poor gastrointestinal digestion. It is recommended to supplement with probiotics (such as yogurt), as they can improve the gut microbiome, aid...[Read More] Understanding Dry Mouth: Symptoms and Traditional Remedies for Relief
Exploring Traditional Chinese Medicine for Eye Health: Insights and Advice
Consultation for Ophthalmology Treatment with Traditional Chinese Medicine Hello, doctor. Due to my significant myopia, I have a habit of getting my eyes checked regularly. During my most recent examination, the doctor mentioned that I have slight optic nerve atrophy and floaters...
Dr. Yan Sumei reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Dear Internet user Shih-Pin: Thank you for your letter. It is indeed appropriate to consult an ophthalmologist or a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioner who specializes in eye issues. Qi Ju Di Huang Wan can effectively enhance tear film stability and reduce tear evapor...[Read More] Exploring Traditional Chinese Medicine for Eye Health: Insights and Advice
Understanding Insomnia: Symptoms, Causes, and Traditional Chinese Medicine Solutions
Insomnia at night Hello, doctor. In the past, I used to stay up until 1 or 2 AM and wake up at 6 or 7 AM to take care of some things, then continue to nap until 8 or 9 AM. However, no matter how I slept, I would have vivid dreams, and waking up made me feel even more tired. Now, ...
Dr. Yan Sumei reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Anonymous user: Hello! Going to bed at 11 PM and waking up at 6 or 7 AM means you are sleeping well. After waking up, if you go back to sleep until 8 or 9 AM (when you start dreaming), you may be in the rapid eye movement (REM) phase of the sleep cycle. Waking up during this time...[Read More] Understanding Insomnia: Symptoms, Causes, and Traditional Chinese Medicine Solutions
Weight Gain and Menstrual Irregularities: Insights from Traditional Chinese Medicine
Weight loss, menstrual issues? Hello Dr. Yan, I have two questions I would like to ask: Question 1: My current weight is around 49-51 kg, but this time last year I was about 47-48 kg. However, over the past year, I have actually been eating much less. I usually commute by bicyc...
Dr. Yan Sumei reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Dear Mak, Thank you for your letter. Weight loss is a complex and challenging journey. It can be frustrating to put in effort without seeing results. Based on your description, your lack of progress in weight loss may be related to menstrual irregularities. I recommend consultin...[Read More] Weight Gain and Menstrual Irregularities: Insights from Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding Menstrual Symptoms: Traditional Chinese Medicine Insights
Menstrual symptoms Hello, doctor. I would like to ask why I always feel weak, have dry mouth, experience lower back pain, and develop a hunchback during my menstrual period. I also tend to speak softly, sigh frequently, yawn a lot, and feel the urge to lie down and sleep. My hear...
Dr. Yan Sumei reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Dear online friend, During your menstrual period, experiencing general weakness, lower back pain, a tendency to lie down, and being easily startled may be due to insufficient qi and blood. You can take Ba Zhen Tang (Eight Treasure Decoction) on your own. If your symptoms do not...[Read More] Understanding Menstrual Symptoms: Traditional Chinese Medicine Insights
Understanding Dampness in Traditional Chinese Medicine: Your Questions Answered
Is it humidity? Hello, may I ask: 1. Is it safe to consume probiotics containing American ginseng, astragalus, red dates, goji berries, and licorice during menstruation? 2. Is having phlegm every day throughout the year a sign of dampness in the body? Thank you!
Dr. Yan Sumei reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Dear Netizen, American ginseng, astragalus, red dates, goji berries, and licorice can be consumed during menstruation. There is a type of probiotic that comes in powder form and can be stored at room temperature, which is acceptable to take; however, another type that must be re...[Read More] Understanding Dampness in Traditional Chinese Medicine: Your Questions Answered
Persistent Nasal Congestion: Seeking Solutions Beyond Western Medicine
Can't get over a cold? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing thick but not severe clear nasal discharge in the nasopharyngeal area, along with persistent nasal voice. I frequently feel the need to blow or sniff my nose to try to clear it, but since the amount is small, I o...
Dr. Yan Sumei reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Dear JS, Thank you for your message. The clear nasal discharge from the nasopharynx, persistent nasal voice, and heaviness around the eyebrows, along with the recurrent nature of your condition, suggest a possible nasal allergy. Your symptoms seem to fluctuate, improving with me...[Read More] Persistent Nasal Congestion: Seeking Solutions Beyond Western Medicine
Can Traditional Chinese Medicine Help Severe Coronary Artery Blockage?
Severe coronary artery obstruction? Hello Dr. Yan, my father is 78 years old and has been suffering from diabetes for several decades. In recent years, his heart condition has worsened, and after a doctor's diagnosis, it was found that all three of his arteries are severely ...
Dr. Yan Sumei reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Dear online friend, Thank you for your message! It may be difficult to achieve your goals solely through traditional Chinese medicine for severely blocked arteries and gum recession. While traditional Chinese medicine has blood-activating and stasis-resolving herbs that can enha...[Read More] Can Traditional Chinese Medicine Help Severe Coronary Artery Blockage?
Is It Safe to Continue Acupressure When It Causes Pain and Dizziness?
If pressing on an acupoint causes so much pain that you're questioning your life, should you continue pressing? Hello doctor, recently I have been experiencing severe pain in the acupoint near the ear along the Sanjiao meridian, and it also causes dizziness and discomfort. S...
Dr. Yan Sumei reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Dear Anonymous User: Thank you for your message. If pressing on acupoints causes significant pain, it indicates that there may be an underlying health issue. I recommend consulting a specialist for diagnosis and treatment rather than trying to self-diagnose, as this could delay n...[Read More] Is It Safe to Continue Acupressure When It Causes Pain and Dizziness?
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 Traditional Chinese Medicine
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 Traditional Chinese Medicine
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 Traditional Chinese Medicine
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 Traditional Chinese Medicine
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 Traditional Chinese Medicine
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 Traditional Chinese Medicine
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 Traditional Chinese Medicine
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 Traditional Chinese Medicine
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
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 Traditional Chinese Medicine
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 Traditional Chinese Medicine
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?