Can Traditional Chinese Medicine Treat Elderly Depression

Traditional Chinese medicine can assist in the treatment of elderly depression, usually as part of comprehensive treatment. Elderly depression may be related to factors such as liver depression and qi stagnation, deficiency of both heart and spleen, deficiency of kidney essence, etc. Traditional Chinese medicine improves symptoms by means of syndrome differentiation and treatment with traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture and moxibustion, massage, etc. It is recommended to combine modern medical treatment under the guidance of professional traditional Chinese medicine practitioners. The core of traditional Chinese medicine treatment for elderly depression lies in syndrome differentiation and treatment. For patients with liver stagnation and qi stagnation, Chaihu Shugan Powder plus acupuncture and moxibustion at Taichong point is commonly used; For patients with both heart and spleen deficiency, Guipi decoction combined with Zusanli moxibustion is suitable; Patients with insufficient kidney essence often choose Zuo Gui Wan combined with massage at Shen Shu acupoint. Traditional Chinese medicine, such as Xiaoyao Pill and Ganmai Dazao Decoction, can regulate emotions. acupuncture and moxibustion and moxibustion at Baihui, Yintang and other acupoints can improve the circulation of qi and blood in the brain. Clinical observations have shown that some patients can alleviate physical symptoms such as insomnia and decreased appetite through traditional Chinese medicine treatment.

For elderly patients with severe depression or suicidal tendencies, simple traditional Chinese medicine treatment may have limited effectiveness. These patients often require priority intervention with antidepressants, such as sertraline, metronidazole, and other Western medicines, to control acute symptoms. Traditional Chinese medicine treatment plays a more auxiliary role at this time, such as using Suanzaoren decoction to improve sleep disorders caused by medication, or reducing side effects such as dry mouth and constipation through ear acupressure. For elderly patients with cognitive impairment, traditional Chinese medicine's puzzle prescriptions such as Kong Sheng Zhen Zhong Dan may be helpful.

Elderly patients with depression should maintain a regular daily routine and engage in soothing exercises such as Ba Duan Jin and Tai Chi during traditional Chinese medicine treatment. In terms of diet, it is advisable to consume moderate amounts of calming ingredients such as lilies, lotus seeds, and yams, and avoid stimulating drinks such as strong tea and coffee. Family members should closely monitor the patient's emotional changes. If symptoms worsen or negative thoughts occur, they should promptly contact a psychiatrist. It is recommended to recheck liver and kidney function every 3 months to ensure the safety of integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine treatment.