Can traditional Chinese medicine treat thyroid nodules

Traditional Chinese medicine can assist in the treatment of thyroid nodules, but it cannot completely eliminate the nodules or replace Western medicine treatment. The treatment of thyroid nodules mainly includes traditional Chinese medicine conditioning, acupuncture and moxibustion therapy, diet regulation, emotional regulation, regular review, etc.

1. Traditional Chinese Medicine Regulation

Traditional Chinese medicine believes that thyroid nodules are related to qi stagnation, phlegm coagulation, and blood stasis, and commonly uses medicines such as summer grass, Zhejiang Fritillaria, and oysters to form prescriptions. Xia Ku Zi Capsules can soften and disperse lumps, while Nei Xiao Luo Lian Tablets can help to resolve phlegm and disperse lumps. Xiao Jin Wan can promote blood circulation and remove blood stasis. It should be used after differentiation by a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner and avoid self medication. Some patients may experience gastrointestinal discomfort after medication and need to adjust their prescription in a timely manner.

2. acupuncture and moxibustion Therapy

acupuncture and moxibustion regulates the movement of qi and blood by stimulating points such as Tiantu, Tanzhong and Zusanli. For benign nodules measuring 1-3 centimeters, it may help alleviate neck compression. The treatment should be performed by a professional acupuncture and moxibustion 2-3 times a week, 10 times as a course of treatment. People with coagulation dysfunction should use it with caution, and pregnant women should not use cervical acupuncture.

3. Dietary regulation

It is recommended to control the intake of high iodine foods such as seaweed and seaweed to avoid stimulating nodule growth. Moderate consumption of Chinese yam, coix seed and other spleen strengthening and dampness dispelling ingredients, as well as qi regulating foods such as white radish and tangerine peel. Avoid spicy and stimulating foods, quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption. When combining hyperthyroidism, a strict low iodine diet is necessary, and hypothyroidism patients can increase high-quality protein appropriately.

4. Emotional regulation

Long term emotional instability may exacerbate qi stagnation and blood stasis. You can regulate your emotions and ensure sufficient sleep through soothing exercises such as Ba Duan Jin and Tai Chi. When the pressure is too high, it can be combined with massage at Hegu and Taichong acupoints. To avoid excessive anxiety about changes in nodules, regular check ups are more important than frequent touching of the neck.

5. Regular follow-up

During traditional Chinese medicine treatment, thyroid ultrasound and thyroid function should still be rechecked every 3-6 months. When the nodule enlarges by more than 1 centimeter, shows small calcifications or abnormal blood flow signals, it should be promptly referred to Western medicine. Traditional Chinese medicine is more suitable as an adjuvant therapy for nodules below Class 4, and surgery must be prioritized for malignant nodules. Traditional Chinese medicine treatment for thyroid nodules requires observation of the effect for at least 3 months. During this period, if compression symptoms such as hoarseness and difficulty swallowing occur, immediate medical attention should be sought. Maintain a regular schedule to avoid neck pressure and radiation exposure. Patients with benign nodules can undergo thyroid antibody testing annually, and when combined with Hashimoto's thyroiditis, selenium supplements are required. Regardless of the treatment method used, maintaining a calm mindset and a healthy lifestyle are crucial.