Q Is it safe to take the steroids prescribed by my doctor together with herbal medicine?
A In most cases they can be combined, but the type of herbal medicine and the timing need to be coordinated. Be sure to tell your Korean medicine doctor about your prescribed medications.
Detailed Answer
In the acute phase, within 72 hours of onset, steroid administration to suppress inflammation and swelling is the standard treatment, and for viral types such as Ramsay Hunt syndrome an antiviral is used as well. In general, spacing herbal medicine and conventional medication 1 to 2 hours apart can reduce the burden during metabolism. Because steroids can irritate the digestive system, an herbal prescription that strengthens the stomach can actually be helpful.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
At Dongjedang, at the first visit we check the list of medications the patient is taking and select prescriptions that place no burden on the body. During the period of steroid and antiviral use, we focus on calming inflammation and protecting the digestive system, and once the conventional medication is finished, we switch to a replenishing prescription that fills the depleted qi and blood to speed recovery. Do not stop herbal medicine on your own or take it at the same time as your conventional medication; proceed under the guidance of a qualified Korean medicine doctor.
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