COVID-19 Symptoms Appear Unrelated

In this update, we have some good news and some not so good news. First the not so good news.

This is a frightening prospect - after patients are presumed to be cleared, the virus can still be active in their body. Research has shown that 50% of treated patients still have active virus active up to eight days after their symptoms disappear. This, in turn, allows them to remain infectious, even after symptomatic recovery.

How does this happen? Researchers suspect that the medications used to treat the virus are not treating the entire organ systems of the affected patients, allowing the virus to migrate to other regions of the body. From a western medical pathophysiological perspective migration of the virus can be through various cellular methods allowing the virus to be transported through the cell membrane and then replicating itself. Within the TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) model, there are energetic pathways connecting various regions of the body and various organs to each other. These pathways are similar to a superhighway allowing information and chemicals to be transported throughout the body.

So what's happening here? Many of the drugs used in treating COVID-19 focus on the respiratory system and neglect the other organs that have energetic connections to the other organ systems in the body.

For instance, in the case of the lungs, TCM recognizes several organ system connections. In TCM one model recognizes what is known as the Interior/Exterior organ relationships. One of these relationships is known as the Taiyin-Yangming relationship. Taiyin and Yangming are two of the six energetic levels in the body. They encompass not only specific external and internal pathways but also specific organs. Taiyin relates to the Lung, Spleen, and Pancreas. Yangming relates to the Stomach and Large Intestine.

Let's review what the medical community is witnessing as far as the major symptoms: loss of sense of smell (anosmia) and taste (ageusia), fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, body aches, runny nose, sore throat, diarrhea or frequent bowel movements. 23% of patients will first experience digestive symptoms, 43% will present with only respiratory symptoms, 33% will have both respiratory and digestive symptoms.

Anosmia
Generally speaking, anosmia in TCM represents an imbalance with the lungs, since one of the functions of the lungs is the ability to discern the Five Odors.

Ageusia
Ageusia, or loss of the sense of taste, generally, is considered as an imbalance in the spleen and stomach. What's interesting about this symptom is that both of these organs are related to the Taiyin-Yangming relationship.

Fever
Fever is not the best factor for qualifying someone with COVID-19. When taking the temporal or forehead temperature the digital thermometer is simply reflecting the temperature of those regions as related to the energetic pathways in those regions. Classically, we've been told 98.6F is the normal body temperature. However, the range for normal body temperature is 97.6 - 99.6℉. The range for fever is at least 100.4℉. A very high fever is one above 105.8℉. Fevers can represent any inflammatory condition whether its an infection or not. So just remember that fever is just one sign of an imbalance in the body. On a side note, I check my temperature every day and it is often in the range from 96.7 - 97.6℉ and rarely registers above 98℉.

Cough, Shortness of Breath
Cough and shortness of breath, though generated from the lungs, has a more complicated pathology. In the Taiyin-Yangming relationship imbalances in the large intestine, spleen/pancreas, and stomach can all create coughs, in addition to an imbalance in the lungs, such as an upper respiratory infection from COVID-19. In addition to the Interior/Exterior energetic relationship, another relationship to consider relates to the regions of the energetic pathways as they correspond to how they are categorized from their Yin or Yang nature and whether they are an upper or lower body pathway. One of these is the Taiyin-Taiyang relationship. As was mentioned earlier, Taiyin represents the energetic pathways of the Lungs, Spleen and Pancreas. The Taiyang level represents the Urinary Bladder and Small Intestine. When assessing the temperature on the forehead one of the pathways in this area relates to the Taiyang energetic level. This is an example of how lower body inflammation or infections can be reflected in the upper body. In this scenario inflammation or congestion in the Bladder or Small Intestine can be transferred to the Lung leading to a cough or shortness of breath.

Fatigue
Fatigue or tiredness is one of the most common conditions that is seen with a number of diseases and disorders. I am constantly cautioning patients to not self medicate with over-the-counter herbs and food supplements when it comes to fatigue. Why? Because fatigue, like any condition, has a number of root causes. Of all the organs in the body, according to TCM, the Lung and Spleen/Pancreas are the only two organs that produce all the energy that is needed by our body to function properly. The Lungs do this through proper breathing while engaged in exercise. The Spleen/Pancreas produces energy from the digestion of healthy food sources. If because of improper lifestyle choices, either one of these organs is negatively affected, then the result will be fatigue. Both the Lung and Spleen/Pancreas are located in the Taiyin level of the body. Weakness in the Taiyin level will cause fatigue, but inflammation in the pathways and organs related to the Taiyin organs will cause fatigue, as well. Namely, the Small and Large Intestines, and Stomach. This is why digestive wreckage can affect the Lungs. This is why eating a clean healthy diet benefits a person's energy and Lungs.

There is another energetic relationship in the TCM model responsible for lung conditions. It's called Taiyin-Jueyin. In this model, the Lungs have an energetic relationship with the Liver. This is important because, from the TCM perspective, the Liver has several functions that play a role in promoting the health of all the organs. Typical symptoms of disharmony in the Jueyin level are vertex headaches, hypertension, spasms, tremors, migraines, vertigo, dizziness, tinnitus, irritability, eye or vision problems, insomnia, palpitations, emotional disturbances, stress, and epigastric or abdominal pain.

Body aches, Runny nose
Body aches and runny nose are very common with what TCM recognizes as an Exterior Invasion of Pathogenic Factors. Typical disorders that include body aches: common cold, influenza, bronchitis, asthma and allergies.

Diarrhea, frequent bowel movements
As was mentioned earlier, the Large Intestine is an aspect of the Yangming level of TCM and is the Interior/Exterior organ relationship with the Lungs. Diarrhea, frequent bowel movements or loose stools indicate an imbalance in the Large Intestine as the result of a pathogenic problem that will begin to affect other organs, in this case, the Lungs.

Now for some really good news. Meridian Harmonics is receiving numerous requests for anti-viral herbal remedies to boost immune function and combat viral and bacterial infections. These herbs have systemic actions. These means they can treat the whole body, not just one organ, disease or symptom. Due to the complexity of the herb’s organic structures, viruses and bacteria are not able to mutate against them as easily as they can with pharmaceuticals.

For thousands of years, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been used in treating bacterial and viral infections. TCM herbal remedies are used to combat the flu and even more recent viral epidemics. Chinese herbal decoctions can be integrated with western modalities and even in conjunction with pharmaceuticals. If you have a question on how to do this safely, contact us at info@mhaom.com or leave us a message at 817-835-0885.

TCM herbs can be tailored to each person’s conditions whether dealing with a cold, ear infection or respiratory virus, shortening the duration of sickness and decreases the severity of symptoms. We recommend taking a maintenance daily dose to boost the immune system prior to the presenting of symptoms. If you have questions regarding these formulations and if they can benefit you, we can be reached at info@mhaom.com or leave us a message at 817-835-0885.

In-Office Procedures 
Due to the recent social distancing requirement, we will continue to suspend all acupuncture, yoga therapy, and integrated positional therapy treatments until April 30.
We apologize for this inconvenience as we would prefer to serve our patients, personally. We will, also, be posting regular updates on our Facebook page, so please Like and check it regularly for news of any changes:  Meridian Harmonics

Our office hours are changing until we're allowed to resume normal operations and interactions with patients and clients. Until further notice, our hours will be: Tuesday - Friday, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

We're doing all we can to help our local community weather the current storm we're facing.
If you need an herbal consult, please contact us by leaving a message at 817-835-0885, or by email: info@mhaom.com  We will be happy to call you and do a consultation by phone, fill your herbal prescription and have them ready for you to pick up or we can ship them to you.
Thank you for your understanding.

D. Mark Tryling, LAc., D. AC, CH (NCCAOM)
Lic. AC00563 (TX Medical Board)
Meridian Harmonics Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
2044 Bedford Rd.
Bedford, TX 76021
817-835-0885
www.mhaom.com

Michelle Tryling, 500-RYT, Yoga Therapy; Integrated Positional Therapist
www.yoga-harmonics.com

If you are currently experiencing any of the symptoms listed contact your primary care doctor or your nearest ER.

Oriental Medicine for Weight Management

I receive a lot of calls from people wanting to lose weight with acupuncture. Somehow they expect to magically lose the weight that's been accumulating for months or even years with just acupuncture. Most western patients have been misinformed about how medicine works. They've been told that all they have to do is take a few pills each day or have a particular surgery and all will be well and good for them. Quite honestly, medicine doesn't work that way. It requires a partnership of the doctor and the patient to successfully overcome health challenges. Those patients that embrace this concept tend to have the most success. Those that depend on the doctor to do all the work will receive little or no benefit from their treatments.

Oriental medicine is amazing and profound in its ability to correct imbalances in the body that are responsible for both acute and chronic disorders and diseases. However, for most patients this involves a process that takes various commitments in order to see quantifiable results. At Meridian Harmonics we make a commitment to each patient to do everything in our power to help them overcome their particular health crisis. All we ask in return is that they do the same by adhering to our treatment plans and lifestyle recommendations.

In Oriental medicine the root of excess weight is an imbalance within the body caused by malfunctioning of the spleen and liver organ systems. Acupuncture points, as well as foods and herbs selected to assist with weight loss can directly influence the Qi of the spleen and liver systems and treat the imbalances that have caused weight gain.

The spleen is responsible for the proper functioning of the digestive system, ensuring that the food we eat is transformed into Qi, the vital substance of life. Disharmony of the spleen will result in symptoms such as fatigue, slow metabolism, water retention, loose stool and a feeling of heaviness.

The liver’s job is to keep the flow of your body’s Qi, blood and emotions running smoothly. Our modern, fast-paced lifestyle and chronic stress can negatively impact the liver’s ability to function properly and smoothly, which, in turn, can cause the spleen and the entire digestive system to function poorly. One result can be a decrease in your metabolism. Liver disharmony can also cause some of the “triggers” that lead to cravings and compulsive eating.

Acupuncture and Oriental medicine have been shown to have positive effects on the functioning of the nervous, endocrine and digestive systems. Treatment can help with food cravings and metabolism. These functions all help energize the body, maximize the absorption of nutrients, regulate elimination, control overeating, suppress the appetite and reduce anxiety.

A Total Health Program

Acupuncture and Oriental medicine address the issues of over-eating and low metabolism with effective tools to control appetite and increase energy. Energy imbalances are corrected and the digestive and elimination processes are improved so that there is a physical shift in the body to naturally have more energy and desire less food.

By addressing both the physiological and psychological aspects of weight management concerns, acupuncture and Oriental medicine provide a comprehensive therapy for weight issues that promote better digestion, balance emotions, reduce appetite, improve metabolism and eliminate food cravings.

Each treatment is customized to the needs of the individual patient. At Meridian Harmonics we use the Pulse Matrix diagnostic system for 1) correctly determining the underlying imbalances for each patient and 2) designing robust acupuncture and herbal treatment strategies.  Acupuncture points on the body are chosen for overall well being with the objective of increasing circulation of the blood and Qi (to stimulate the metabolism) and calming the nervous system. Treatments can include a combination of auricular (ear) and body acupuncture, ear tacks or pellets to leave on between treatments, herbs and supplements, breathing exercises, and food and lifestyle recommendations.

In addition to treating the root of the imbalance within the body, different acupuncture points may be used for each treatment as different symptoms arise. For instance, if you are experiencing a desire to overeat related to premenstrual syndrome (PMS) one week, then that can be addressed at that week’s appointment.

The herbs and foods that are chosen during a weight management treatment are for promoting healthy digestion, energizing the body, augmenting Qi, and improving elimination of water, toxins and waste products. Acupuncture can help improve digestion. It can also help with food absorption and the movement of food through the intestines.

Deep breathing with visualization can also strengthen will power and be used as a tool to curb hunger and cravings. Most patients report a marked decline in appetite and cravings with acupuncture treatment alone, but special herbs, healing foods and exercises can definitely enhance the efficacy of the treatments.

Acupuncture and Oriental medicine are powerful tools for achieving a healthy weight, by itself or as a supportive treatment in conjunction with other weight management programs. Schedule a consultation to see how acupuncture and Oriental medicine can assist you with your weight management goals and help you to live a long, healthy life!

Meridian Harmonics

Pain Management Using Oriental Medicine

How does Acupuncture treat Pain?

In Chinese medicine, acupuncture meridian theory states that there are 14 primary channels of energy within the body. These channels or meridians are similar to a highway system. Qi, pronounced chee, (energy and information) is transmitted through the meridians so the body can perform specific tasks. When there is an interruption of the flow of energy or information in the meridian systems, one of the first signs can be discomfort or pain. Each of the meridians has internal and external branches or pathways. Acupuncture points lie on the external branches. The internal branches connect to other meridians or channels and to the internal organs. In this way acupuncture points can treat both pain and disharmony in the organs.

How does Tai Chi and Qi Gong help to relieve pain?

Chinese medicine is rooted in several major concepts and laws that govern the physical universe. One of these concepts is that Movement = Health and Non-movement (Stagnation) = Disease. To use this concept we need to understand that the body consists of meridians that transport Qi, blood vessels that transport Blood and tissues/organs that transport specific body fluids or food. These systems are designed to be dynamic or moving. When they cease to move efficiently or effectively, then the body will suffer. Longstanding lack of movement will, eventually, cause pain. To prevent or reduce pain, the ancient Chinese discovered that physical movement was one of the keys to health.

How does Chinese Herbal Medicine treat Pain?

They’re numerous pathogenic causes to pain. In western medicine most of these causes are rooted in nervous system disorders. Chinese Medicine, however, is not based on the nervous system. Therefore, pain can be caused by disharmonies with Qi, Blood, Body Fluids and environmental factors. Some examples of these disharmonies and just a few herbs to treat them are listed below.

Qi (Energy) Deficiency: Pain is worse with exertion; fatigue, weakness, swelling, distending pain; pain alleviated with pressure

Astragulus Root – augments Qi, strengthens blood; for numbness in limbs and painful obstructions

Licorice root – replenishes Qi, reduces toxicity, relieves spasms & pain

Qi (Energy) Stagnation: Achy pain, especially in the rib cage; anxiety, irritability, depression; pain aggravated with pressure

Tangerine Peel – regulates Qi, normalizes Spleen and Stomach functioning

Bupleurum – soothes Liver for pain in abdomen, chest and rib cage

Blood Deficiency: Heart palpitations, restless, irritable, fatigue, depression, anxiety, dizziness, insomnia, inability to concentrate, poor memory, muscle weakness, spasms, numbness, irritability; pain alleviated by pressure

Angelica Root – nourishes and invigorates blood to stop pain; especially beneficial for all female disorders

White Peony root – nourishes blood, soothes Liver, stops pain

Blood Stagnation: Heart palpitations, cold extremities (hands, feet, legs, arms), sharp stabbing pain, insomnia, dark or purplish coloration, restless; pain aggravated by pressure

Turmeric – aids with pain due to stagnation of blood

Lovage Root – invigorates blood, moves Qi, stops pain

Heat: Pain is aggravated by heat; red coloration with possible swelling

Phellodendrum bark – clears heat & inflammation, reduces swelling

Gypsum – strongly clears heat and inflammation to stop pain

Cold (Yang Deficiency or Cold Climate): Pain is aggravated by cold; pale, blue or purplish coloration with possible swelling

Peppers – contain Capsaicin (extremely hot): best for pain aggravated by cold 

Aconite – dispels cold to stop pain

Damp: Pain is aggravated by damp, humid conditions; swelling or edema

Ginger – aids in resolving damp/phlegm accumulations in joints; also helpful with nausea and vomiting due to damp/phlegm/food

Atractylodes – resolves dampness to stop pain, especially in knee and foot joints

Dry (Yin Deficiency or Dry Climate): Aggravated by dryness, low grade fever, irritability, irritability, dry mouth and throat, dry skin, thirst, restless, low back pain, bone pain, constipation due to dry stools

Foxglove Root – nourishes Blood to stop pain, relieves dryness

Scrophularia root – clears heat nourishes Yin, purges heat, relieves toxity to stop pain

Food Stagnation: Stagnation of food in the gastrointestinal track can cause pain in the chest, abdomen, rib cage, back and intestines.

Pinellia rhizome – dries damp accumulations, lowers adverse Qi to stop nausea, vomiting and pain

Hawthorn fruit – dissipates clumps, reduces food stagnation for abdominal distention, pain, chest pain

Caution! Do not self medicate. To determine the correct herbal combinations for your specific type of pain, obtain an herbal consultation with an Oriental Medical practitioner to get an accurate diagnosis and proper course of treatment recommendation.