Hyperthyroidism is a common endocrine disorder caused by excessive secretion of thyroid hormones due to various causes. Cupping therapy is a common method of disease prevention and treatment in traditional Chinese medicine, and it is popular among many people. So, can cupping therapy be used for hyperthyroidism?
Can cupping therapy be used for hyperthyroidism?
Cupping therapy can be used for patients with hyperthyroidism.
There are many types of hyperthyroidism, and diffuse goiter and nodular goiter are common in clinical practice. It is characterized by mild to moderate diffuse enlargement of the thyroid gland on both sides of the neck, accompanied by symptoms such as irritability, dry throat, rapid heartbeat, palpitations, insomnia, red face, heat intolerance, excessive sweating, increased appetite, and weight loss. Some patients may also experience hand tremors and protruding eyes.
Cupping therapy can regulate organ function, improve blood circulation, enhance disease resistance, and eliminate pathogenic factors, which has a positive effect on relieving symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
Cupping therapy for hyperthyroidism
Cupping method:
Cupping is performed on the following acupoints: Dazhui, Shendao, Huagai, Xinyu, Diyu, Shenyu, Ganyu, Piyu, Zusanli, Sanyinjiao, and Shenque. The cupping time is 30-40 minutes.
Operating principle:
The above acupoints have the effects of invigorating the spleen, promoting diuresis, and regulating the triple energizers.
Note:
1. Cupping therapy should be avoided when hyperthyroidism symptoms occur, such as tachycardia, palpitations, red face, hand tremors, protruding eyes, nausea, vomiting, and high fever. Immediate medical treatment with Chinese and Western medicine should be sought.
2. Direct cupping on the enlarged thyroid gland or nodules of the thyroid gland is strictly prohibited!
Precautions for cupping therapy
1. Choose a clean and hygienic environment for cupping therapy, avoid cold drafts, and keep warm to prevent the patient from getting cold.
2. The cupping devices must have smooth edges and no damage.
3. During cupping therapy, the movements should be stable, fast, light, and accurate. The size of the cups should be appropriate, so that the cups are secure but not too tight. When using multiple cups, the distance between the cups should not be too close to avoid pain from skin traction or cup displacement.
4. When moving the cups, the technique should be gentle. It is recommended to move the cups from top to bottom. Lubricants should be applied to the skin or cup edges of the cupping site to maintain lubrication and prevent skin abrasions.
5. The duration of each cupping session is generally 5-20 minutes, and can be as long as 30 minutes in some cases. Acute cases can be cupped once a day, and chronic cases can be cupped every other day. A course of treatment consists of 10-15 consecutive sessions. Flash cupping is generally performed 2-4 times at each site, and the cupping time is usually 5-10 minutes.
6. The cupping time should be adjusted according to the patient's condition, skin condition, and different seasons. For milder conditions, delicate skin, and hot summers, the cupping time should be slightly shorter; for more severe conditions, rough skin, and cold winters, the cupping time should be relatively longer.
7. During the cupping session, it is important to observe the patient's reactions and changes in the cups. If the patient experiences dizziness, pale complexion, nausea, vomiting, cold limbs, cold sweat, weak pulse, etc. after cupping, the cups should be removed immediately and the patient should lie flat, keep warm, and drink warm water or sugar water. In severe cases, acupuncture can be performed on the Renzhong, Neiguan, and Zusanli acupoints. For children, the elderly, the weak, and patients with nervousness, hunger, or first visit, special attention should be paid to prevent discomfort.
8. If there is bleeding at the needle site after needle cupping, it can be wiped with a dry cotton ball. Generally, the local area will show redness and bruising (hematoma), which is considered a normal reaction. Yang patterns and heat patterns usually present with bright red bruises, while yin patterns, cold patterns, and blood stasis patterns present with purple or dark red bruises. In cases of mild conditions, the local skin will show mild erythema reaction, which will return to normal color within a short period of time. Generally speaking, the deeper the local skin color, the slower the recovery to normal color.
9. If there is scalding, small blisters can be left to absorb on their own without treatment. If the blisters are large or the skin is broken, the blisters should be punctured with a sterilized needle, and the fluid should be released before applying gentian violet solution.
10. Bloodletting cupping should be performed according to different conditions. For patients with acute illness, young and strong individuals, a larger amount of bleeding is suitable; while for patients with chronic illness, the elderly, children, and individuals with weak constitution, a smaller amount of bleeding is suitable. The total amount of bleeding for each adult should not exceed 10 milliliters, and after bleeding, disinfection should be done.
11. When using needle cupping, care should be taken not to let the bottom of the cup hit the fine needle inserted into the body, so as to avoid the danger of pushing the needle deep into the tissues. This is especially important for areas deep in the chest and back where important organs are located.
12. Cupping should be avoided on areas of the skin that are allergic, ulcerated, edematous, or where large blood vessels are distributed. Cupping should not be performed on the abdomen and lumbosacral region of pregnant women.
13. After cupping, the oil or water stains should be wiped dry, and a small amount of wind-dispelling oil should be applied to the congested area. The patient should rest for a while. If the patient feels chest tightness or heat in the chest, cupping should be performed on both sides of the third and fourth thoracic vertebrae on the patient's back to relieve the symptoms.
Can scraping be applied to the neck of patients with hyperthyroidism?
If the patient with hyperthyroidism does not have diffuse goiter or nodular goiter, scraping can be applied to the neck. However, it is important to note that the scraping force on the neck should be light, as the neck has a thin layer of fat and delicate skin that can be easily injured if not handled properly.
If the patient with hyperthyroidism has thyroid enlargement or thyroid nodules, direct scraping on these areas should be avoided to prevent ulceration, infection, spread, and malignant transformation.
Scraping sites for hyperthyroidism
I. Scraping sites
1. Select Fengchi acupoint of the Foot Shaoyang Gallbladder Meridian to guide qi and activate collaterals.
2. Select Tiantu acupoint of the Conception Vessel to directly act on the thyroid gland and reduce metabolism.
3. Select Fengmen and Shenyu acupoints of the Foot Taiyang Bladder Meridian to nourish the earth and solidify the kidneys.
4. Select Renying acupoint of the Foot Yangming Stomach Meridian to invigorate the spleen and supplement qi.
5. Select Hand Sanli acupoint of the Hand Yangming Large Intestine Meridian to clear the intestines and invigorate the abdomen.
II. Scraping methods
1. Scraping the back of the head
Scrape along the Foot Shaoyang Gallbladder Meridian from top to bottom, with a focus on scraping the Fengchi acupoint.
2. Scraping the back waist
Scrape along the Foot Taiyang Bladder Meridian from top to bottom, with a focus on strengthening the Fengmen and Shenyu acupoints.
3. Scraping the front of the neck
Scrape along the midline of the front of the neck from top to bottom, with a focus on strengthening the Renying and Tiantu acupoints.
4. Scraping the back of the forearm
Scrape along the Hand Yangming Large Intestine Meridian from top to bottom, with a focus on scraping the Hand Sanli acupoint.
III. Indications
Suitable for patients with hyperthyroidism who have symptoms of excitement, excessive talking, restlessness, anxiety, increased appetite, weight loss, heat intolerance, and excessive sweating. In addition, patients also have varying degrees of thyroid enlargement, eye protrusion, hand tremors, and neck vascular murmurs.
Self-care precautions for patients with hyperthyroidism
1. Build confidence in overcoming the disease
Some hyperthyroidism patients tend to be pessimistic after being diagnosed, believing that hyperthyroidism is difficult to treat and incurable for life. This is not advisable. It should be noted that hyperthyroidism is a relatively common disease that can be diagnosed and treated early with the current level of medical knowledge and healthcare conditions, leading to a cure. With the development of medicine, the level of diagnosis and treatment is constantly improving, so the vast majority of hyperthyroidism can be cured.
Therefore, after being diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, it is important to build a strong sense of confidence, closely cooperate with the doctor, take medication on time, and regularly go to the hospital for check-ups. It is necessary to take the disease seriously but not be afraid of it.
2. Rest appropriately without bed rest
After the diagnosis of hyperthyroidism is confirmed or during the treatment period when the symptoms have not completely improved, it is important to rest appropriately. This is because hyperthyroidism patients have a high energy consumption, and if the workload or activity level is not appropriately reduced, it will further burden the body.
Rest includes both physical and mental aspects. During the period when the condition is not well controlled, heavy physical labor should be avoided. Prolonged mental labor, including intense studying, exams, overtime work, and work without time limits, should also be avoided. Emotional stress and work pressure are not only factors that contribute to the onset of hyperthyroidism, but can also make it difficult to control the disease or cause a relapse and worsening of symptoms. Therefore, if hyperthyroidism is severe, it is recommended to arrange a 2-3 month rest period, and gradually return to relatively light work after the symptoms improve. However, if the patient's work environment is relatively good, with no excessive physical or mental activity, and relatively relaxed, complete work stoppage may not be necessary.
Of course, most hyperthyroidism patients do not need to stay in bed for a long time. For patients with good working environment, physical and mental activity is not intense, and the workload is not heavy, complete work stoppage is unnecessary.
Some hyperthyroidism patients may experience discomfort in their eyes, such as protrusion, dryness, and irritation. Prolonged exposure to television, internet, computer screens, and reading without rest can result in eye fatigue, which can exacerbate eye symptoms. Therefore, it is important to avoid excessive eye strain.
3. High calorie, low iodine diet
Due to the increased metabolism in hyperthyroidism patients, their nutritional needs are significantly higher than normal individuals. If the nutritional intake is insufficient, weight loss will be more pronounced and cachexia, a late-stage cancer syndrome, may occur. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to proper diet to support the recovery of the condition.
Typically, a high calorie, high protein, and high vitamin diet should be provided. For example, foods with high calorie and protein content such as lean meat, river fish, chicken, duck, and eggs should be consumed more; the intake of rice, noodles, and other carbohydrate-rich foods should be increased appropriately; attention should be paid to the consumption of fruits and various fresh vegetables to supplement the loss of vitamins. It is also important to avoid consuming seaweed, shrimp, and other seafood with high iodine content. Some people believe that if the neck is thick due to hyperthyroidism, it is necessary to consume more kelp. However, this is actually incorrect, as it confuses the goiter caused by iodine deficiency with hyperthyroidism. In hyperthyroidism, it is not recommended to consume more kelp or seaweed, as these foods contain high levels of iodine. Consuming them will provide the hyperactive thyroid gland with the material it needs to produce more thyroid hormones, which is detrimental to treatment. For hyperthyroidism patients with thick necks, it is also important to eat less cabbage, soybeans, and their products, as cabbage contains substances that can cause thyroid enlargement, and soybeans contain isoflavones that may cause thyroid enlargement.
4. Avoid strenuous exercise
When the condition of hyperthyroidism is not well controlled, the metabolism of body tissues is often in a negative balance, with catabolism exceeding anabolism. Therefore, strenuous physical activities should be avoided. For example, individuals engaged in heavy physical labor can appropriately reduce the intensity of their work, students can be exempted from physical education classes or not participate in intense sports activities, and athletes can temporarily refrain from participating in competitive sports.
5. No smoking, moderate alcohol consumption
Hyperthyroidism patients often have changes in their eyes, such as protrusion. It is important to note that smoking can have adverse effects on thyroid eye disease and can worsen eye protrusion.
During hyperthyroidism, the body produces excessive thyroid hormones, which can affect the function of various systems in the body and cause a series of hyperactivity and excitement symptoms. Cigarettes and alcohol have obvious excitatory and stimulating effects on the body, so after smoking or drinking alcohol, patients may experience increased heart rate, increased hand tremors, and other symptoms, making the existing mild hyperthyroidism symptoms more apparent.
6. Avoid triggers
Hyperthyroidism has many types, and the most common type is Graves' disease, which is related to genetic and autoimmune factors. However, whether the symptoms of hyperthyroidism occur or not is also related to some triggering factors. Avoiding these environmental factors may prevent the occurrence of hyperthyroidism symptoms, delay the onset of symptoms, or alleviate the symptoms.
Common triggering factors include: 1) Infections, such as colds, tonsillitis, etc. 2) Mental stress, such as mental tension, anxiety, etc. 3) Overfatigue, such as overwork, intense physical activity, etc. 4) Pregnancy. Early pregnancy may induce or exacerbate hyperthyroidism. 5) Trauma, such as car accidents, injuries, etc. 6) Excessive iodine intake, such as eating large amounts of seaweed and other seafood. 7) Certain medications, such as amiodarone, etc.
7. Take medication on schedule
Follow the doctor's instructions and take medication on time and in the prescribed dosage. Do not stop or change the medication or dosage without authorization. If it is necessary to reduce or increase the dosage or add other medications, the doctor's consent should be obtained to avoid any unexpected situations.
8. Regulate emotions
Emotional stress is a common trigger for the onset of the disease and can worsen symptoms. Therefore, hyperthyroidism patients should pay attention to regulating their emotions, cultivating their character, not getting angry easily, resting their minds, and regularly listening to elegant and pleasant music. They can also develop habits such as gardening, raising fish, and birds to cultivate their spirits, quiet their minds, and gradually eliminate mental symptoms. Family members and colleagues should also sympathize, comfort, understand, and care for the patients, avoiding direct conflicts.
9. Balance work and rest
Establish a regular schedule of work and rest, have sufficient rest and sleep time, avoid intense exercise and any activities that can cause tension and excitement, and avoid direct exposure to sunlight. During the disease period, bed rest may be appropriate. The rest environment should be quiet and well-ventilated. If the disease is mild, slight activities can be performed while in bed, without excessive household chores.
After the condition stabilizes, participate in beneficial activities and work to regulate the enjoyment of life, but avoid overwork and long-term sick leave.
10. Diet do's and don'ts
Due to the increased basal metabolic rate in hyperthyroidism patients and increased energy consumption, the diet should be high in calories, high in vitamins, and sufficient in protein and carbohydrate. The protein intake should generally not be less than 15 grams per kilogram of body weight per day, mainly from liver, fish, eggs, poultry, and soy products. Eat more fresh vegetables, fruits, and foods rich in calcium, such as milk, fish, and shrimp, to supplement calcium deficiency caused by hyperthyroidism. Avoid spicy foods such as chili, onions, ginger, and garlic. Avoid foods high in iodine, such as seaweed, seaweed, etc. Minimize or avoid smoking and alcohol consumption. Drink less strong tea and coffee.
Tobacco and alcohol can stimulate and excite the body, and can even cause restlessness, increased heart rate, and aggravated symptoms. It is recommended to quit smoking and avoid alcohol. Avoid consuming concentrated tea, coffee, and other stimulating foods as much as possible to prevent excessive excitement in patients with hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism patients have an increased basal metabolic rate and a higher demand for nutrients. The diet should be high in calories, high in vitamins, and should include sufficient protein and carbohydrate. Protein intake should be at least 1.5 grams per kilogram of body weight per day. It is recommended to consume lean meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products. More fruits and fresh vegetables should be consumed to supplement the loss of vitamins. Seafood and other foods high in iodine should be avoided. Smoking and alcohol consumption should be avoided. Strong tea and coffee should be avoided or consumed in moderation.
11. Drink plenty of tea and water
Hyperthyroidism patients have increased metabolism and increased sweating, which can lead to dehydration. Therefore, it is important for hyperthyroidism patients to drink plenty of water, about 1500-3000 milliliters per day, to replenish the lost water due to excessive sweating. They can drink light tea, cold water, and other beverages, but should avoid strong tea and coffee, as they contain theophylline, which can increase central nervous system excitement and exacerbate hyperthyroidism symptoms.
12. Protect the eyes
Hyperthyroidism patients often have protruding eyeballs and are prone to dry eyes. Therefore, it is important to protect the protruding eyes to prevent the occurrence of serious complications. When going out, it is recommended to wear sunglasses to avoid the stimulation of strong light, sand, and dust. When sleeping, it is recommended to elevate the head, and apply eye ointment appropriately for protection.
13. Plan pregnancy carefully
In general, hyperthyroidism does not have a significant impact on pregnancy, but whether pregnancy is possible should be consulted with an endocrinologist and an obstetrician. During pregnancy, hyperthyroidism symptoms will not worsen, and the fetus will not be affected. However, medication dosage during pregnancy should be reduced, and artificial feeding should be used after delivery instead of breastfeeding.
14. Prevent infection
Hyperthyroidism patients often have a low total white blood cell count and low neutrophil count, which can lead to susceptibility to infections. Infections can cause a relapse or exacerbation of controlled hyperthyroidism, and even lead to thyroid storm. Therefore, it is important to learn to prevent various infections and control them in a timely manner once signs of infection are detected.
15. Maintain personal hygiene
Hyperthyroidism patients have a faster metabolism, so it is important to take frequent baths, change clothes, and maintain personal hygiene.
16. Regular check-ups
After the condition of hyperthyroidism stabilizes, regular check-ups should be conducted at the outpatient clinic to keep track of changes in the condition and receive guidance on medication.
