Acupuncture Beats Drug in Alleviating Hot Flashes, Night Sweats and other Symptoms Associated with Breast Cancer Treatment
Acupuncture Beats Drug in Alleviating Hot Flashes
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Eugene, Oregon, September 22, 2008- A new medical study finds that acupuncture is just as effective as conventional medications in easing the side effects of breast cancer treatment.
Eleanor M. Walker, M.D., of Henry Ford Health System in Detroit reported the findings earlier this week at the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology meeting.
Dr. Walker noted that not only is acupuncture just as effective as venlafaxine (Effexor) in treating the side effects of breast cancer treatment, but the effects last longer than conventional drug therapy with no side effects.
Study participants were separated into to two treatment groups, the venlafaxine group and the acupuncture group. Patients taking venlafaxine reported a variety of adverse effects including nausea, dry mouth, headache, sleep disturbance, dizziness, vision disturbance, increased blood pressure, fatigue, and anxiety.
Patients in the acupuncture group not only reported no treatment-related side effects, but also said they had improvement in energy, clarity of thought, sexual desire, and overall sense of well-being.
According to local Eugene based acupuncturist, Ariel Solomon, MSTCM, L.Ac., “these results are no surprise. Acupuncture encourages the body’s natural healing abilities, thus promoting overall health and well-being. Instead of merely masking symptoms, acupuncture stimulates the body to correct its own imbalances, in turn providing greater benefits and longer lasting relief.”
“Acupuncture is not only helpful in alleviating cancer treatment-induced side effects, but it is highly effective in treating hot flashes and other symptoms related to natural menopause. Additionally, acupuncture is commonly used to treat PMS, infertility, anxiety/ depression, insomnia, headaches, pain and more.”
Ariel Solomon, MSTCM, L.Ac., practices acupuncture and herbal medicine at Five Seasons Women’s Wellness, Eugene’s only Traditional Chinese Medicine based women’s health practice. Five Seasons Women’s Wellness is open during the week and on weekends. Hours vary and are by appointment. Appointments can be scheduled by calling (541) 515-6446. They are on the web at www.FiveSeasonsWellness.com
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