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Step 1
Explore the ways that acupuncture is used to help people live with HIV and AIDS. Acupuncture can be used to improve the overall physical, mental and spiritual well being of an individual suffering from AIDS. It may also be used to help relieve some of the more troubling symptoms, such as night sweats, fatigue, nausea and insomnia.
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Step 2
Use acupuncture to treat diarrhea associated with HIV, a widespread symptom of people who live with the disease. Acupuncture's use to treat diarrhea usually focuses on restoring the flow of Qi through the spleen, where blockage tends to occur. Conventional medications are often used together with the heat treatments that are commonly used during acupuncture.
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Step 3
Treat nerve pain that is often caused by HIV medications with acupuncture. Nerve, or neuropathic, pain is sometimes relieved by inserting acupuncture needles into the hands and feet.
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Step 4
Talk to your health-care provider or primary-care doctor about using acupuncture to treat HIV and AIDS. Your doctor needs to be aware of any alternative forms of treatment you add to your current treatment plan.
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Step 5
Choose an acupuncturist carefully, and be sure that he is a licensed specialist. Licensing requirements vary from state to state, based on education, training and work experience. Your doctor or insurance company may be able to recommend a high-quality acupuncturist.
