Korean medicine : indigestion
I’ve been experiencing some stomach discomfort. I can eat, but I feel a sensation of fullness, and I lack an appetite despite not having eaten a full meal for about two weeks, since mid-May. This has happened before, about ten years ago, and I recovered after a period of rest. This time feels similar; I can eat small amounts, such as a few cherry tomatoes for lunch, but I don’t feel inclined to eat more. I’m concerned that a regular-sized meal might be too much for me. I’ve been trying to manage this by eating simple salads or sometimes skipping meals. Given the persistent discomfort, I’m exploring traditional Korean medicine as a potential treatment option. I visited a nearby practitioner without an appointment and received acupuncture and cupping therapy. Interestingly, during the treatment, I noticed that my head is tilted approximately eight degrees toward my right shoulder.
I received a Korean medicine treatment last Friday and observed a fast for over a day afterward. I experienced dizziness after a 20-minute walk in the heat. Increasing my food intake has been beneficial, although I haven’t completely recovered. I am gradually increasing my food consumption, as I am concerned about a relapse. Three days after the treatment, I feel significantly better, but I am uncertain whether this improvement is due to the medicine or the brief fast.
Second time visiting
Following my recent visit, I received a Korean medicine treatment similar to my previous one. I am still unsure what specifically aids my digestion, rather than simply alleviating the feeling of fullness. I believe both the medicine and foot bath were beneficial. Interestingly, my hand and foot temperatures differed considerably after the bath. The treatment has made eating more comfortable, although I remain mindful of my food choices. While I can now enjoy meals, I am still selective in my choices. My doctor suggested a longer-lasting herbal remedy as opposed to the more immediate effects of acupuncture. The total cost was 91,200 won, which included 40 packets of herbs for a 20-day course.
Third time visiting
I am feeling much better now, despite having overindulged last night. This morning, however, I feel perfectly fine. I am on my way to the Korean clinic to pick up the herbal medicine I ordered. I would like the same treatment as last time. This remedy has been quite effective; I tried other methods for the past two weeks on my own, but nothing worked as well. The acupuncture on my solar plexus is sometimes a bit uncomfortable, but tolerable. I received a 20-day supply, with two doses per day. I am hopeful that I will feel even better soon.
Starting from April 29, 2024, health insurance will be applied to six diseases for herbal medicine
With this change, the financial burden on patients will be significantly reduced.
Target Diseases:
- Dysmenorrhea
- Low back pain
- Post-stroke depression
- Anxiety disorder
- Allergic rhinitis
- Functional dyspepsia
Health Insurance Coverage Criteria:
- Each patient can receive insurance coverage for up to 20 days per year for two different diseases (a total of 40 days).
- Coverage beyond 40 days may be available with an additional review.
Patient’s Share of the Cost Based on Medical Institution:
- Clinic: 30%
- Oriental Medicine Hospital / Oriental Medicine Education Hospital: 40%
- General Hospital / Oriental Medicine Education General Hospital: 50%
(Health insurance applies to the cost of herbal medicine prescribed by the medical institution.)
Safe Herbal Medicine:
- All herbal medicines used are certified as safe by the government (GMP-certified or equivalent).
For more details, please consult a nearby pilot project institution.
