Asthma is a serious chronic lung disease that affects almost 5 million children in the United States alone. Although the disease can occur in children of all ages, it most commonly develops before the age of five. The symptoms, which include wheezing, chronic cough, shortness of breath and tightness in the chest can be debilitating for many children. Oriental Medicine, including Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine, has been shown to be an effective treatment for pediatric asthma.

Western Medical treatment for asthma includes both short term relief (inhalers) and long term relief (corticosteroids, bronchodilators and anti-inflammatory medications.) While these medicines have improved the quality of life for many kids and proved life saving during acute asthma attacks, statistics show that asthma is currently not well controlled in the pediatric population. Poorly controlled asthma leads to a lower tolerance for physical activity and possibly obesity, increased need for rescue medications and absenteeism from both school and extra-curricular activities. Oriental Medicine can offer hope to these children who are dealing with the effects of asthma in their lives.

Acupuncture has long been used in China to treat asthma and related respiratory problems and a number of research studies have shown acupuncture to be an effective therapy for these conditions. Asthma has also been listed by the World Health Organization as one of the diseases for which acupuncture is considered to be effective. Many parents are quite hesitant when considering bringing their children in for acupuncture treatments though, as they are worried about subjecting their children to a painful experience. However, a variety of treatment methods are available which can make acupuncture virtually pain free for kids. Younger children can get  Shonishin, a needle-free, non-evasive acupuncture massage, while older and more mature children may get very fine needles which they generally tolerate quite well.

In more severe cases of asthma Chinese Herbal Medicines may also need to be prescribed. These herbal medicines have a long history of safe use and have been employed for many children with great success. A recent study at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine showed Chinese Herbal Medicine is effective in treating asthma, without the side effects that are commonly encountered with medications like prednisone or corticosteroids. For smaller children and infants, the herbal medicine comes in liquid form with a dropper which can be squeezed directly into their mouth. Older children are often prescribed pills or powdered herbs which are mixed with hot water to make a tea. These herbal formulas, which usually contain between 10-15 different ingredients, are created specifically for the individual symptoms that your child is experiencing.

I realize that Pediatric Oriental Medicine, as a treatment for your child, is likely something different for you and that you may have many questions about it. I have also seen the great effects that this medicine can have on childhood illness, Asthma in particular, and I am very happy to talk with you about it and how it might help your child. Please feel free to call me here at FirstHealth at any time.

- Jason Henson, MAOM, L.Ac.

Pediatric Wellness Initiative