By Dr. Angelina Pullen, DAcCHM, LAc, BS, Dipl. OM, LMT
Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (AATD) is a genetic condition that significantly posing individuals to early-onset chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and emphysema. As patients and healthcare providers explore integrative approaches to manage this challenging condition, acupuncture has emerged as a complementary therapy worth considering alongside conventional treatments.
Understanding Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency
The alpha-1 antitrypsin protein is produced in the liver and protects the lining of the lungs. AATD occurs when the SERPINA 1 gene produces defective or insufficient amounts of alpha-1 antitrypsin protein. Without adequate levels of this protective protein, lung tissue becomes vulnerable to destruction. For some, the defective or misshaped proteins remain in the liver cells and can lead to cirrhosis of the liver. This genetic disorder affects approximately 100,000 people in the United States and can lead to progressive breathing difficulties, frequent respiratory infections, reduced exercise tolerance, damage to the liver and lungs and diminished quality of life. The severity and progression depend upon various factors, including genetic variant, exposure to smoking or environmental pollutants and other contributing health conditions.
The Role of Acupuncture in Respiratory Health Acupuncture, a keystone of Traditional Chinese Medicine practiced for thousands of years, involves inserting very thin needles at specific points on the body to stimulate innate healing mechanisms and restore balance. In traditional Chinese medicine theory, the lungs govern respiration and are closely connected to the body’s Wei Qi (Defensive Qi), or the immune system. When lung function is compromised, as in AATD, Acupuncture can help strengthen the respiratory system, reduce inflammation, phlegm and congestion in the lungs and support overall lung health. Research has shown acupuncture to have a positive effect on multiple neuro-immune pathways, including stimulating the vagus nerve which influence functions such as heart rate, breathing, and digestion.
Benefits of Acupuncture for AATD Patients
While research specifically examining acupuncture for AATD remains limited, ongoing studies on acupuncture for COPD, asthma and other chronic respiratory conditions offer promising insights. Acupuncture can support lung health and AATD patients by:
Reducing Dyspnea: Breathlessness is a common symptom affecting AATD patients. Acupuncture can help by supporting lung function, relaxing tight chest muscles that can restrict expansion of the chest during inhalation, improving breathlessness and oxygenation, cough, and breathing patterns.
Managing Inflammation: Since AATD involves chronic inflammation of lung tissue, acupuncture’s anti-inflammatory effects can provide supportive benefits. Recent studies indicate that acupuncture can assist in modulating inflammatory responses in the body and reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. Improving
Quality of Life: Living with a chronic lung condition takes an emotional and physical toll. Acupuncture has been shown to reduce anxiety and depression commonly associated with chronic respiratory diseases, while also supporting sleep quality and overall wellbeing.
Integrating Acupuncture with Conventional Care It’s crucial to emphasize that acupuncture should complement, not replace, standard medical treatment for AATD. Augmentation therapy with alpha-1 antitrypsin protein, bronchodilators, pulmonary rehabilitation, supplemental oxygen and lifestyle modifications remain essential components of AATD management. For patients with AATD and chronic lung conditions, Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine can offer a complementary role in supporting their health and wellness. When seeking acupuncture care, patients should look for a board certified acupuncture physician who specializes in acupuncture and herbal medicine. Treatment protocols typically involve weekly or bi-weekly sessions over several months. Acupuncture treatments may include modalities like acupuncture, herbal medicine, homeopathy, Tui Na (Oriental Medical Massage), diet and life style recommendations that is tailored to individual symptoms and constitution.
Conclusion
For individuals living with Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency, acupuncture represents a potentially valuable complementary therapy that may help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. As an adjunct to conventional medical care, it offers a low-risk approach that some patients find beneficial for breathlessness, stress reduction, and overall respiratory support. As research continues to evolve, the integration of traditional practices like acupuncture with modern medicine may offer new pathways for supporting those affected by this challenging genetic condition.
About Dr. Angelina Pullen, DAcCHM, LAc, BS, Dipl.OM,LMT
Dr. Pullen is a board-certified Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine dedicated to holistic, patient-centered care. She earned both her Bachelor’s Degree in Health Sciences and Master’s Degree in Oriental Medicine from the East West College of Natural Medicine, followed by a Doctoral Degree in Acupuncture with a specialization in Chinese Herbal Medicine from the Pacific College of Health and Science.
Licensed by the State of Florida and Nationally Certified through the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM), Dr. Pullen also holds certification in Advanced Acupuncture Point Injection Therapy (APIT). With over 26 years of experience in the massage therapy field, Dr. Pullen brings a rich background in holistic health and wellness. Her practice integrates the wisdom of traditional Eastern Medicine with modern biomedical understanding, allowing her to effectively address a wide range of conditions-including chronic pain, stress-related disorders, digestive concerns, women’s health issues, headaches, autoimmune and preventive wellness.
Renowned for her compassionate and personalized approach, Dr. Pullen designs individualized treatment plans that may include acupuncture, herbal medicine, homeopathy, cupping, tui na (Oriental medical massage), and TCM nutrition. She is deeply committed to identifying and treating the root cause of illness rather than merely managing symptoms, empowering each patient to achieve lasting balance and well-being.
N., Guo, Y., Gong. Y., Zh;mg. Y., Fan. W., Yao. K .. Chen, Z .. Dou, 8 Lm. X .. Chen. 8 … Chen. z.. Xu. z .. & Lyu. z. (202 1 J.. The Ant,-tnRammaro,y Actrons and Mechanisms of Acupuncture from Acupoml to Target Organs v,a Neuro-lmmune Regulation. Joumal of mRammat,on research, 14, 7191-7224. Https’1/do,.orgll 0.214 7
LOTUS HOLISTIC WELLNESS
(941) 784-4480
14888 Tamiami Trail, North Port, FL 34287 AP4388,