Treatment

Medical

Common illnesses include diabetes, stroke, hepatitis B, hypertension, tuberculosis, and cancers of the upper GI tract, lung, liver, and nasopharynx. There is a higher incidence of thalassemia and G-6-PD deficiency, a condition in which the lack of an enzyme results in anemia. Up to 65% of men from China smoke. Some illnesses may be considered shameful (i.e., HIV, sexually transmitted diseases); in some cases, medical care may not be sought. Immunization of children is accepted.

Using herbal remedies (often brewed as tea), acupressure, acupuncture and conferring with a medium or spiritualist are acceptable traditional treatments.

Depending on their exposure to Western medicine, some Chinese may be fearful of hospitals, surgery and needles. On the other hand, a medication given by injection may be considered by some more potent and effective, and may be preferred over oral medication. Western medicine may be used only when traditional remedies have failed or for severe symptoms. This may lead to late diagnosis and use of the emergency room.

Treatment decisions may be made by the family. unit. Chinese patients may have a low tolerance for tests, as they may expect medical professionals, being expert, to be able to give treatment immediately. Blood tests may be avoided as they allow the “Chi” (the essence of one’s body energy) to leak out.

Patients may believe symptoms should be relieved promptly by medication, and that an illness is cured if its symptoms go away. The concept of health maintenance may not be appreciated.

Some patients may use both an American physician and a Chinese traditional practitioner simultaneously. It is important to ask what other Chinese herbal medicines the patient is using to avoid drug interactions and adverse reactions. Patients may require education on drug/herb interactions.

Mental Health

Mental illness is not recognized; the Chinese fear stigma from their community. Problems like stress and anxiety may be considered affecting a person who is weak. Depression may occur, related to low income or separation from relatives in their homeland. Because “saving face” and privacy is so valued, personal problems and sexuality may not be discussed with health care providers.

Traditional/Alternative

The concept of “Yin” and “Yang” is a dynamic system where opposing energy forces need to be balanced for harmony. Illness may be attributed to an imbalance in Yin (a cold force) and Yang (a hot force), a curse by an offended spirit or a punishment for some previous behavior. Wearing layers of clothes to keep warm may also be done. Jade may be worn for good luck or to ward off bad spirits. Red is considered to be a lucky color.