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Questioning
During the first
visit, a considerable amount of time is spent asking the patient for
details about his or her general condition. These questions relate
to all emotional, physical, and energy related signs and symptoms,
and can help the acupuncturist form a more complete picture of the
patient's condition.
A full medical
history is usually taken, including details of past illness, operations,
physical and mental traumas. While these issues may not seem pertinent
to the patient at this juncture, they do provide important insights
into the pattern of disharmony existing within the patient.
Other important
questions which may be asked are:
- Preferences
for heat or cold
- Frequency and
consistency of urination and defecation
- Sleep patterns
- Diet and thirst
- Menstrual cycle
(length, pain associated, heaviness of bleeding, etc.)
- Headaches (when
they occur, where and under what circumstances)
- Perspiration
(amount, time of day, circumstances)
In addition, the
practioner may inquire regarding the nature of any pain or discomfort,
as reactions to heat or cold may point to patterns of excess and deficiency,
such as imbalances in Yin and Yang. For example, if pain is relieved
by heat, a cold condition (Yin) is indicated. If the reverse is true,
such as a discomforts alleviated by cold, a Yang condition could be
present.
The site(s) of
the pain are also noted as they may indicate a blockage or stagnation
of qi within the meridians of the body.
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