ABSTRACT
We report a case of obstructive sleep apnea improved with the treatment both of Kampo medicine and Western medicine. The patient aged 52 years old was struggling with daytime drowsiness. Through the sleep test, he was diagnosed as severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and was received a continuous positive airway pressure therapy (CPAP). Generally, positive air from CPAP applies through the nose and usage reports were recorded in the device. If having nasal congestion, it may be hard to continue CPAP. In this case he had a severe nasal congestion, and he nearly became CPAP failure. It was clear from the poor usage reports. Using Eppikajutsuto for nasal congestion, he felt decrease of nasal congestion. By switching to Shoseiryuto or kakkontokasenkyusin’i from Eppikajutsuto with reference to CPAP usage and nasal CT images, CPAP was continued effectively. Eventually, his daytime sleepiness disappeared.To continue CPAP, which is one of Western medicine, Kampo medicine was useful. On the other hand, to evaluate the effectiveness of Kampo medicine, Western medicine was necessary. CPAP reports and nasal CT images, which are Western medicine, contributed to the switch to Kampo medicine. This case showed the worth of the combined therapy of Kampo medicine with Western medicine.
ABSTRACT
Chinese herbal remedy (KAMPO) is no longer an out-of-date medicine. It is now transforming into a new medical care system that attracts world-wide attention. The therapeutic system of Oriental Medicine is different in various aspects from that of Occidental Medicine. In this regard, appropriate harmonization of East and West (Oriental Medicine and Occidental Medicine) by comparison with merits and demerits in the understanding of diseases, methods of consultation, usage of drugs, etc. is expected to improve the quality of medical care. Considering that most of the drugs used in the Occidental Medicine are based on “single effective ingredient” that is artificially synthesized while herbal drugs are produced by combining crude drugs that contain various ingredients, the method of administration should naturally be changed.Such stance of Kampo medicine is based on the “respect for and understanding of individual constitution and disposition while paying attention to the gender difference and individuality” with the patient as the protagonist (treatment that is centered on client) and is also based on understanding and respecting the gender difference and individuality that are the basis of so-called “Science and Art” of practical medicine.