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Question: Looking for recommendations for acupuncturist who specializes in children (allergies/asthma) in sf bay area?

(Posted by: blaze027 on 2009-04-05 20:29:59)

Hi, We have a 5 year old son that has suffered from allergies and asthma since he was born. Like many other parents who are in this situation, his symptoms do not seem to be getting any better (neither the asthma OR the allergies). He has been on every medication known to man, has a very well intentioned doctor that seems to mean well but simply tries to mask the problem instead of fixing the problems. Her response is to give him the albuterol 4 times a day, the prednisone, the pulmicort 4 times a day, the claritin, the nasal sprays, the eye drops, the singulair, blah blah blah. i feel that I am giving WAY to many things to a 5 year old little boy. I am beginning to think of trying acupuncture to see if that could help, but since he is a child I am weary of taking him to any acupuncturist and would like to find one that specializes or has significant experience with children. We live about 30 minutes from San Francisco in the north bay area. Does anyone have any advice or referrals for a GREAT acupuncturist in the San Francisco area? The poor little guy is miserable and I can't take seeing him in such miserable condition anymore. The typical western style is not working and I need to try something else. Since allergy season is coming on, he loves to be outside but it's detrimental to his health and I feel I cannot even let him go outside and play. We were awake all night battling asthma and eyes swollen shut just from going to the park yesterday. I'm at my wits end, I want to make him all better but need some types of referrals or even input on acupuncture for children.

Posted by: I'm Ur Huckleberry on 2009-04-07, 12:59:19

I have allergies that bad. Have since I was a child. I would seek another doctor. The acupuncture is very controversial and not recommended for children. It is in that gray area that CPS may find worthy of trying your parenting skills and decisions. Try to find a doctor that will administer injections weekly. Those make a TREMENDOUS difference as opposed to oral medication. I know. I had to get two shots a week. I still go for weekly shots, and I'm well over 30! I have them that bad. Cannot even wear a watch without a reaction so I know. Acupuncture is not the way to go for a child this young. I sincerely stress that you call around for an allergist that will give your child injections. I have the eye drops and the pills and I agree, they only mask or temporarily relieve symptoms. The injections are different. They actually work to build a resistance to the allergies and, in time, your child may be able to eliminate them altogether forever. However, this is in many years. Injections are the way to go. They make a huge difference in a matter of weeks. The wee one will receive a shot in each arm. They are small injections and a bit painful for a child but their little arms get used to it. Acupuncture can be traumatic for a small child. <----physician's assistant.

Posted by: Cappo359 on 2009-04-05, 20:40:10

I know a great acupuncturist in the Morgan Hill area, but this may be too far for you to go. If you're interested in traveling that far you can e-mail me.