Eye problems can respond well with acupuncture although it is always advisable to see your GP beforehand, in case it is something that requires urgent medical attention.

Many eye symptoms have no useful label or clear pathology in Western medicine, and may not respond to conventional treatment. They are not severe or progressive, but they may be extremely irritating (ref. Journal of Chinese Medicine, No. 39 May 1992 'Bright Eyes'). These are the chronic eye problems that generally involve some combination of redness, itchiness, dryness, 'grittiness', watering, blurred vision and discomfort. They do not involve any permanent loss or deterioration of visual clarity.

After ruling out any serious eye problems, you may consider acupuncture treatment for eye problems. Treatment is based on a differentiation of 'patterns of disharmony' according to the theory of Traditional Chinese medicine. This will involve asking detailed questions about the eye problem and collecting more information about your general health to build up a bigger picture. I will also look at your tongue and feel your pulse.

To give an example, red painful eyes that feel hot would indicate Heat. This Heat will often manifest in different ways, not just affecting the eyes. The tongue may be particularly red or the complexion may be red, or perhaps there will be a general feeling of heat in the body. If the urine was consistently dark yellow then this can also indicate heat. There are many possible symptoms of heat, too many to list here.

Please phone me directly if you are wonering if acupuncture could help you.