
Q What is the procedure for narcolepsy treatment at a Korean medicine clinic? I feel lost since it is my first time.
A During the initial consultation, we assess the severity of Spleen Qi deficiency and Heart Qi deficiency through pulse diagnosis, abdominal palpation, and the Four Axes evaluation. Subsequently, we begin prescribing Bojungikgitang or Chongmyungtang series prescriptions, adjusting them based on progress after 2 to 4 weeks. The consultation will be much faster if you prepare a symptom diary and a list of concurrent medications in advance.
Detailed Answer
Step 1 — Initial Assessment: We diagnose patterns of Spleen Qi deficiency, Heart Qi deficiency, and Water-Rising-Fire-Descent disorders through pulse diagnosis, abdominal palpation, and a sleep questionnaire. We also review the list of existing Western medications. Step 2 — Initial Prescription: We combine herbal medicine series that boosts and nourishes energy (Spleen Qi reinforcement, Yang Qi elevation) with herbal medicine series that aids memory and concentration (Heart Qi reinforcement, concentration) according to your constitution. Step 3 — Progress Check: After 2 weeks, we verify the effectiveness via pulse diagnosis and adjust the prescription based on the frequency of daytime sleepiness and the sleep diary. Step 4 — Maintenance: Once symptoms stabilize, long-term management is provided through monthly maintenance prescriptions and lifestyle guidance. From the Perspective of a Korean Medicine Clinic: For narcolepsy, the key is the steady restoration of organ function rather than rapid effects. The prescription follows a step-by-step approach: reinforcing Spleen Qi → improving Water-Rising-Fire Balance → stabilizing Heart Qi, proceeding while monitoring the body's response at each stage.
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