Relieve Hot Flashes, Night Sweats, and Perimenopausal Symptoms with Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine

By Tanya | Published July 9, 2024

Menopause and perimenopause bring a host of symptoms that can disrupt daily life, including hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and more. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and acupuncture offer natural, effective ways to manage these symptoms and restore balance to the body.

Understanding Menopausal Symptoms

Hot flashes are sudden feelings of intense heat, often accompanied by sweating and a flushed face. Night sweats are similar but occur during sleep, causing you to wake up drenched and uncomfortable. These symptoms are among the most common and distressing aspects of menopause and perimenopause.

Perimenopausal Symptoms

Perimenopause is the transitional period before menopause, characterized by hormonal fluctuations that can lead to irregular periods, mood swings, sleep disturbances, and more. Managing these symptoms early can improve quality of life and ease the transition into menopause.

Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective :Balance of Yin and Yang

In TCM, health is viewed as a balance between the opposing forces of Yin and Yang. Menopause is often seen as a decline in Yin, which can lead to an excess of Yang, causing symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. Restoring the balance between Yin and Yang is essential for alleviating these symptoms.

Organ Systems Involved

TCM identifies several organ systems that play a role in menopausal symptoms:

Kidneys: Considered the source of reproductive energy and hormones. A decline in Kidney Yin can lead to hot flashes and night sweats.

Liver: Responsible for the smooth flow of Qi and blood. Liver Qi stagnation can cause irritability, mood swings, and menstrual irregularities.

Heart: Controls the mind and emotions. Heart Yin deficiency can lead to insomnia and anxiety.

More Than Just Organs

When we talk about Organs in TCM, we don’t just think about their structure and function as discovered by Western medicine (so don’t be concerned about your physical organ, that is not what I am referring to here). We consider each Organ to create specific symptoms when they are out of balance. This information is extremely helpful for an Acupuncturist and Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner to diagnose what is happening with each patient.

For example, when we discuss perimenopause, there is more than one type of perimenopausal person because each person’s body is balanced in a specific way, which leads to specific symptoms. These specific symptoms help us diagnose what is going on for you, allowing us to provide more accurate and individualized care.

Common TCM Diagnoses for Menopausal Symptoms

Kidney Yin Deficiency: Symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, dizziness, and dry skin. Treatment focuses on nourishing Kidney Yin with herbs like Rehmannia (Shu Di Huang) and Anemarrhena (Zhi Mu).

Kidney Yang Deficiency: Symptoms include fatigue, cold hands and feet, and frequent urination. Treatment involves warming the Kidneys with herbs like Cinnamomum (Rou Gui) and Aconite (Fu Zi).

Liver Qi Stagnation: Symptoms include irritability, depression, and breast tenderness. Treatment aims to move Liver Qi with herbs like Bupleurum (Chai Hu) and White Peony (Bai Shao).

Heart Yin Deficiency: Symptoms include palpitations, anxiety, and insomnia. Treatment involves calming the mind and nourishing Heart Yin with herbs like Suan Zao Ren (Ziziphus) and Bai Zi Ren (Biota).

How Acupuncture Can Help: Balancing the Body’s Energy (Qi)

Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body to balance Qi, improve circulation, and restore harmony. For menopausal symptoms, common points include:

Kidney 3 (Taixi): Strengthens Kidney Yin and Yang.

Liver 3 (Taichong): Moves Liver Qi.

Heart 7 (Shenmen): Calms the mind and nourishes Heart Yin.

Regulating Body Temperature

Acupuncture can help regulate the body’s thermostat, reducing the frequency and intensity of hot flashes and night sweats. By balancing Yin and Yang energies, acupuncture helps maintain an even body temperature.

Promoting Better Sleep

Acupuncture and herbal medicine can calm the mind and nervous system, promoting better sleep and reducing night sweats. Improved sleep quality can significantly enhance overall well-being.

TCM Herbal Remedies

Herbal medicine is a cornerstone of TCM. Each different perimenopause type requires their own specific herbal formula. A TCM practitioner can tailor herbal formulas to address individual needs.

Benefits of Acupuncture and TCM

Natural and Holistic: TCM offers a natural approach without the side effects often associated with conventional treatments.

Personalized Treatment: TCM treatments are tailored to the individual, addressing specific symptoms and overall health.

Improved Quality of Life: Regular treatments can alleviate symptoms, improve mood, and enhance overall health and well-being.

Practical Tips for Managing Symptoms

Hydration and Diet

Hydrate: Drink plenty of water and cooling herbal teas like peppermint and chrysanthemum.

Diet: Incorporate cooling foods such as cucumbers, watermelon, and leafy greens. Avoid spicy foods and alcohol, which can trigger hot flashes.

Lifestyle Adjustments

Stay Cool: Use fans, wear light clothing, and stay indoors during peak heat.

Regular Exercise: Engage in moderate exercise like walking, yoga, or tai chi to maintain health and reduce stress.

Patient Success Stories

Many patients have found significant relief through acupuncture and TCM. Here’s a testimonial from one of our satisfied patients:

I spent years trying different medications for relief of extreme hot flashes with no success. Then I was referred to Dr. Kelloway and she changed my life. After hearing my story she nailed down an effective treatment plan which is a combination of acupuncture and diet. This plan has dramatically minimized and controls my symptoms. Thanks to Dr. Kelloway I got my life back.

-Michelle

Conclusion

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine offer effective, natural solutions for managing menopausal and perimenopausal symptoms. By balancing the body’s energy, regulating temperature, and promoting overall well-being, TCM can help you navigate this transition with greater ease and comfort.

Don’t let hot flashes, night sweats, and perimenopausal symptoms control your life. Book your acupuncture session today and experience the benefits of TCM.

References

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health:Acupuncture
Mayo Clinic:Menopause
Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine:Herbal Medicine for Menopausal Symptoms

Posted in Acupuncture, Traditional Chinese Medicine | Comments Off

Using Traditional Chinese Medicine to reduce PMDD: A Journey with Acupuncture

By Tanya | Published June 26, 2024

For those suffering from PMDD, a week each month can feel like a “write-off” or an “absolute dark night of the soul.” Hi! My name is Dr. Tanya Kelloway, and I am a Doctor of Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner. With 14 years of experience, I’ve helped many people regulate their bodies and relieve PMDD symptoms. Today, I want to share this hope with you.

Posted in Acupuncture | Comments Off

Navigating Breast Cancer: Sarah’s Empowering Journey with Acupuncture

By Tanya | Published December 8, 2023

Navigating Breast Cancer: Sarah’s Empowering Journey with Acupuncture

For over 14 years, I’ve been utilizing the power of acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine to support individuals on their unique breast cancer journeys. Each patient I’ve had the privilege to treat has imparted valuable lessons, but none more impactful than my first patient, Sarah.

Over a Decade Ago: Guiding Through Uncharted Territories

In the early stages of my career, fresh out of school and having recently established my acupuncture practice, I encountered a formidable challenge: helping someone navigate through the intricate stages of their breast cancer journey. Despite being armed with specialized knowledge in acupuncture technique designed for radiation, chemotherapy, surgery, and hormone therapy, guiding my first patient through these uncharted territories was a task that stirred a sense of apprehension within me.

The “Hurry Up and Wait” Phase

Sarah, in the initial phases of her diagnosis, was caught in the relentless cycle of “hurry up and wait.” This stage, familiar to anyone touched by cancer, is marked by anxious waits for tests, specialist appointments, and crucial diagnoses. The overwhelming uncertainty during these months becomes a dominant force, taking over one’s world.

Prime of Life Interrupted

Sarah, an optimist and entrepreneur, was blindsided by the diagnosis. As her doctor uttered the words “you have cancer,” her vibrant world came to a sudden halt. Singing in a choir, crafting, and enjoying time with the love of her life and her loved ones – all halted in the face of an uncertain future.

Dr. Montgomery:Guardian Angel in the Breast Cancer Journey

Sarah discovered a pillar of strength in the form of Dr. Montgomery at Breast Cancer Supportive Care (BCSC). More than a Medical Doctor specializing in breast cancer, Dr. Montgomery became a beacon of guidance through the tumultuous journey of breast cancer. For individuals grappling with a breast cancer diagnosis, the Breast Cancer Supportive Care (BCSC) emerges as an indispensable resource, offering both emotional and informational support.

Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off

Acupuncture and Breast Cancer, What’s The Point

By Tanya | Published October 11, 2023

Acupuncture and Breast Cancer: Finding Balance in Treatment

Introduction

Embarking on the challenging path of breast cancer requires a comprehensive approach. As a seasoned Doctor of Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner, I’ve witnessed the profound impact that acupuncture can have on individuals undergoing breast cancer treatments. In this article, we’ll explore the symbiotic relationship between acupuncture and western medicine, shedding light on how this ancient practice can bring relief and support during the breast cancer journey.

The Harmony of Acupuncture and Western Medicine

Since 2010, I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals facing breast cancer, helping them mitigate the side effects of conventional treatments. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, undergoing treatments, or grappling with post-treatment challenges, acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offer a unique avenue for navigating this journey with more ease.

Who Can Benefit:

This article is for you if

You or a loved one is navigating a recent breast cancer diagnosis and exploring complementary treatments.
You aim to alleviate the side effects of western medicine cancer treatments.
You seek to support overall health while undergoing conventional cancer treatment.
Post-treatment, you’re still grappling with lingering side effects.

Acupuncture as a Complement

Working in tandem with western medicine, acupuncture and TCM prove effective in reducing the side effects of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy. Additionally, acupuncture aids in pre-surgery preparation and accelerates post-surgery recovery.

Navigating Your Schedule

Understanding the demanding nature of cancer treatments, I tailor acupuncture sessions to fit seamlessly into your schedule. By coordinating with your chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery schedule, we ensure optimal support during crucial phases.

For instance:

Pre-surgery sessions prepare the body, while post-surgery appointments facilitate recovery and reduce trauma.
Between chemotherapy sessions, acupuncture can alleviate side effects like nausea, fatigue, and sleep issues.
Acupuncture in the midst of your radiation sessions to help cool the body and reduce heat in your tissues.
Help reduce the negative side effects of hormone therapies, like joint pain, mood issues, hot flashes/night sweats, anxiety, sleep issues

A Calming Acupuncture Experience

For those unfamiliar with acupuncture, rest assured that my approach prioritizes comfort and relaxation. Amidst the stress of battling cancer, acupuncture becomes a calming sanctuary. The non-invasive and painless nature of the treatment aims for an environment so tranquil that you could drift into peaceful sleep.

Conclusion

In the realm of breast cancer treatment, acupuncture emerges as a powerful ally, working hand in hand with western medicine. As we observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, consider the subtle yet profound benefits that acupuncture can contribute to your holistic well-being. If you’re seeking a supportive and calming adjunct to your breast cancer journey, acupuncture might just be the missing piece.

For further information or to explore how acupuncture can enhance your breast cancer treatment plan, reach out.

Together, let’s forge a path towards a more comfortable and resilient recovery.