Can traditional Chinese medicine treat polycystic kidney disease

Traditional Chinese medicine can assist in the treatment of polycystic kidney disease, but it cannot completely cure the disease. Polycystic kidney disease is a hereditary kidney disease, and traditional Chinese medicine treatment mainly delays the progression of the disease by regulating qi and blood and improving symptoms. It is recommended that patients combine traditional Chinese and Western medicine treatment under the guidance of a doctor.

1. Traditional Chinese Medicine Regulation

Traditional Chinese medicine believes that polycystic kidney disease is related to insufficient kidney qi and blood stasis, and often uses traditional Chinese medicine that promotes blood circulation, removes blood stasis, and tonifies the kidneys and qi. The commonly used clinical prescriptions include traditional Chinese patent medicines and simple preparations such as Liuwei Dihuang Pill, Jinkui Shenqi Pill, or Chinese herbal decoction prepared according to individual symptoms. These drugs help improve symptoms such as lower back pain and edema, and inhibit the growth rate of cysts. However, it should be noted that long-term use of traditional Chinese medicine may increase the burden on the liver and kidneys, and prescriptions must be adjusted regularly by a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner.

2. acupuncture and moxibustion therapy

acupuncture and moxibustion regulates renal function by stimulating Shenshu, Bladder Shu and other acupoints. Acupuncture and moxibustion at Zusanli, Sanyinjiao and other acupoints can improve fatigue, anorexia and other symptoms of patients. Clinical practice shows that regular acupuncture and moxibustion can alleviate the low back pain and urination discomfort of some patients, but has no effect on the cyst itself. The treatment should be performed by a professional acupuncture and moxibustion to avoid accidentally injuring the swollen kidney.

3. Dietary therapy

Traditional Chinese medicine emphasizes the principles of low salt and high-quality protein diet, recommending water rich ingredients such as winter melon and adzuki beans, and limiting high purine foods. For individuals with different constitutions, those with kidney yang deficiency can consume lamb and chives as warm tonics, while those with kidney yin deficiency should use nourishing foods such as goji berries and black sesame seeds. Protein intake should be strictly controlled, with no more than 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight per day, to reduce the burden on the kidneys.

4. Qigong regulation

Traditional health practices such as Ba Duan Jin and Tai Chi can improve qi and blood circulation by regulating breathing and physical activity. Clinical observations have shown that consistent practice helps stabilize blood pressure and alleviate anxiety. But it is necessary to avoid intense exercise and twisting movements in the waist to prevent cyst rupture. It is recommended to practice gradually under the guidance of a professional coach, 3-4 times a week for 30 minutes each time.

5. Emotional regulation

Traditional Chinese medicine attaches great importance to the influence of emotional factors on diseases, and improves patients' depression and anxiety states through the method of soothing the liver and relieving depression. Commonly used formulas such as Chaihu Shugan San are combined with music therapy, meditation, and other methods to regulate emotions. A good psychological state helps maintain the effectiveness of treatment, and family members should provide sufficient emotional support to create a relaxed family atmosphere. Traditional Chinese medicine treatment for polycystic kidney disease requires long-term adherence and regular monitoring of kidney function and cyst changes. If symptoms such as hematuria and severe back pain occur, seek medical attention immediately. Moderate exercise should be maintained in daily life to avoid holding urine and overexertion. Control blood pressure below 130/80mmHg and limit daily salt intake to no more than 6 grams. It is recommended to undergo ultrasound examination and renal function evaluation every 3-6 months, and adjust the treatment plan in a timely manner according to changes in the condition. Maintain a regular daily routine, quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption, and prevent urinary tract infections.