Traditional Chinese Medicine Treatment Methods for Thyroid Nodules

Thyroid nodules can be treated by Chinese medicine conditioning, acupuncture and moxibustion, cupping, acupoint application, diet regulation and other Chinese medicine methods. Thyroid nodules are usually caused by emotional disorders, soil and water disorders, physical factors, improper diet, infectious factors, and other reasons.

1. Traditional Chinese Medicine Treatment

Traditional Chinese medicine believes that thyroid nodules are often caused by liver depression and qi stagnation, as well as phlegm and dampness coagulation. Therefore, formulas such as Xiacao Cao Oral Liquid, modified Haizao Yuhu Tang, and Xiaoying Wuhai Wan can be used. Prunella vulgaris has the effect of clearing heat and dispersing nodules, and is suitable for those with nodules accompanied by heat symptoms; Seaweed Jade Pot Soup can soften, firm, and disperse nodules, and has a better effect on harder nodules; Xiaoying Wuhai Pill can dissolve phlegm and nodules, suitable for patients with phlegm dampness constitution. Traditional Chinese medicine treatment requires differentiation and treatment. It is recommended that professional Chinese medicine practitioners adjust the prescription according to individual conditions.

II. acupuncture and moxibustion Therapy

acupuncture and moxibustion regulates the movement of qi and blood by stimulating specific points. Common points include Tiantu, Renying, Zusanli, etc. The Tiantu acupoint is located in the center of the suprasternal fossa and can treat qi and phlegm; Opening the Ren Ying acupoint 1.5 inches next to the Adam's apple can unblock local Qi and blood; Zusanli is a key acupoint for health care, which can strengthen the spleen and invigorate qi. Acupuncture and moxibustion treatment is usually 10 times as a course of treatment, and it is recommended to do it 2-3 times a week. For solid heat nodules, blood letting therapy can be combined with blood letting therapy, while for deficiency syndrome, warm needles or moxibustion are often used.

III. Cupping Therapy

Cupping promotes local blood circulation by creating negative pressure in specific areas of the neck. During treatment, cupping can be performed at acupoints such as Dazhui and Jianjing, and left for 5-10 minutes each time. The cupping method is more effective when performed along the bladder meridian. After cupping, there may be purple red bruising in some areas, which is a normal phenomenon. Individuals with weak constitution should control the intensity and duration of cupping, and this method is contraindicated for patients with bleeding disorders.

Fourth, Acupoint Patch

is a ointment made from drugs with softening and dispersing effects and applied to acupoints. Commonly used drugs include frankincense, myrrh, and trigone. Direct application of Ashi acupoint can act on the local area of nodules, and the treatment effect is better when combined with Dazhui acupoint and Danzhong acupoint. The application time is generally 4-6 hours, and those with sensitive skin should shorten the time. If there is skin itching or redness during the application period, it should be stopped immediately. Summer patches should pay attention to keeping the skin dry to prevent infection.

Fifth, Dietary Regulation

Traditional Chinese medicine dietary therapy advocates eating more soft, hard, and loose foods such as seaweed and seaweed, and consuming moderate amounts of spleen strengthening and phlegm resolving ingredients such as taro and shiitake mushrooms. It is advisable to choose grains and cereals with moderate properties and control the intake of spicy and stimulating foods. People with phlegm dampness constitution can drink aged tangerine peel and hawthorn tea appropriately, while those with qi stagnation can brew rose tea. Avoid excessive consumption of cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage and radish that may affect thyroid function. Maintaining a regular diet helps to balance qi and blood. Traditional Chinese medicine treatment for thyroid nodules requires long-term persistence, and it is recommended to cooperate with emotional regulation to maintain a relaxed mood. Engaging in soothing exercises such as Eight Section Brocade and Tai Chi can help promote the circulation of qi and blood. Regularly review thyroid ultrasound during treatment to observe changes in nodules. If the nodule rapidly enlarges or shows compression symptoms in the short term, seek medical attention promptly. Avoid daily exposure to radiation and pollutants, ensure adequate sleep, and enhance the body's resistance.