Benefits of Acupuncture in Treating Immune Deficiencies

An immunodeficiency disorder can weaken the immune system, allowing infections and other health problems to occur more easily and frequently. Immunodeficiency disorders can result from medication overuse or chronic diseases such as cancer and diabetes. In some cases, immunodeficiency runs in the family. Unhealthy lifestyle choices can also cause immune deficiency.

Different Types of Immunodeficiency Disorders

Primary immunodeficiency disorder presenting at the time of birth is called primary immunodeficiency disease. Some common types include severe combined immunodeficiency, also known as alymphocytosis, chronic granulomatous disease, and common variable immunodeficiency.

A secondary immunodeficiency disorder occurs when a chemical or infection weakens the immune system. It can be caused by chemotherapy, severe burns, radiation, and malnutrition. Some common secondary immunodeficiency disorders are multiple myeloma, AIDS, cancers of the immune system, and immune-complex diseases, including viral hepatitis.

Some Signs of an Immunodeficiency Disorder

There are several types of immunodeficiency disorders. Immunodeficiency disorder symptoms can vary depending on the type of disorder. That said, there are some common signs of immunodeficiency disorders. People with immunodeficiency disorders are prone to sinus infections, colds, thrush, chronic gum disease or gingivitis, yeast infections, and pneumonia. They may also go on to develop chronic abdominal pain and lose weight over time.

Risk Factors

Some common risk factors for immunodeficiency disorders include a person’s genetic makeup and age-related physiological changes. When we sleep, our body produces a protein that helps the body fight infections. For this reason, people who report poor sleep quality are prone to immunodeficiency disorders. Infection caused due to exposure to body fluids infected with HIV, or organ removal and replacement can also lead to an immunodeficiency disorder.

How Can Acupuncture Help?

Acupuncture in Walnut Creek is based on the belief that an energy blockage can cause disease and immunocompromise body systems. Acupuncturists insert paper-thin needles through their patients’ skin at strategic points on their bodies to clear energy blockages. When performed by an expert, acupuncture is generally safe.

Studies show that acupuncture can alleviate the symptoms of immunodeficiency disorders. Unlike many modern treatment modalities that focus on the symptoms of immunodeficiency disorders, acupuncture addresses its root causes. It fast-tracks recovery by decreasing excess phlegm and inflammation and boosting cell-mediated immunity.

T-cells are an integral part of the immune system. Their primary role is to protect the body from infection. Research shows that acupuncture can increase T-cell count, helping improve the body’s ability to fight foreign invaders.

Studies show that stress affects the immune system, increasing one’s risk of an immunodeficiency disorder. Acupuncture can help reduce stress by stimulating the body to increase the production of feel-good hormones such as endorphins and serotonin and reducing the levels of stress hormones. As the name implies, feel-good hormones promote happiness and well-being.

Acupuncture stimulates the autonomic nervous system to improve immune response. It can increase the level of interferon, a protein that helps the immune system fight infections. An immunodeficiency disorder can lead to poor quality of life.

Acupuncture can help reduce the symptoms of immunodeficiency disorders, allowing people living with them to lead happier, more fulfilling lives.

Some unhealthy foods, such as deep-fried and frozen foods, can impair the immune response. Acupuncturists offer nutritional and lifestyle counseling and can help people with immunodeficiency disorders inculcate good eating habits.

How Many Acupuncture Sessions Do I Need?

The number of sessions you need depends on the nature and severity of the health problem you are experiencing. It is common to receive 6-8 sessions. A typical acupuncture treatment plan involves one or two treatments per week.

What to Expect at Your First Appointment?

In the first session, your acupuncturist will ask questions about your family and health history to develop an in-depth understanding of your condition. They will check your tongue, abdomen, and pulse. Once they get answers to all their questions, the acupuncturist will formulate an initial diagnosis and treatment strategy.

Treatment plans are not set in stone. Your acupuncturist will regularly revisit and review your treatment plan and make changes, if necessary, to suit your evolving healthcare needs. An initial acupuncture session lasts 90 minutes. Subsequent sessions can last 60 minutes.

Monarch Acupuncture & Wellness is a renowned acupuncture clinic in Walnut Creek. Our acupuncturists have years of experience treating everything from the common cold and flu to more serious health problems. To make an appointment, call (925) 268-8830