Acupuncture Treatment for Epidemic Parotitis (Mumps)
Epidemic parotitis, also known as mumps, commonly referred to as “frog plague,” is an acute infectious disease caused by virus. The main symptom is swelling and pain in the parotid glands near the ears. It commonly spreads in winter and spring, mainly affecting children. Adults are more likely to experience severe symptoms.
[Pathogenesis]
The disease results from external exposure to epidemic warm toxins, combined with phlegm-fire and accumulated heat, stagnating in the Shaoyang channel. Impaired dispersion of Shaoyang meridians causes swelling and pain in the parotid glands, accompanied by chills and fever. Since liver and gallbladder are interior-exterior partners; liver channels connect to genitalia, so testicular swelling and pain often accompany the condition.
[Pattern Differentiation]
Mild cases only feel soreness in the parotid area, followed by swelling, gradually subsiding without other symptoms within several days. Moderate cases initially present chills, fever, headache, vomiting, then gradually develop redness, heat, and swelling in the parotid region, making chewing difficult. Severe cases show high fever, intense thirst, testicular swelling, floating rapid or slippery rapid pulse, yellow greasy tongue coating.
[Treatment]
Acupuncture treatment principle: Mainly select points on the Hand Shaoyang Meridian. Use draining method with filiform needles.