Expert: Dr. Brendon J. O`Brien, D.C. - 8/18/2004

Question
Hi,
I am 38 years old. I had liver problem slightly higher than normal (it was 51 and normal is 40) about a year ago because of alcohol. My doctor says if it happens again, you have to quit alcohol. After that it was normal constantly (AST is 20 and ALT is 22) for a year. Lately I feel uncomfortable around liver area, I believe it's “blood qi stag” or “liver qi stag” because I checked on the internet about my symptoms.
My question is:
1, can acupuncture help me with my problem?
2, acupuncture really repair my liver or just put bandage on my liver? You know what I mean?
3, how can I have really healthy liver so I don't have to worry about taking any medicine or social alcohol drink?  

Answer
Hello John,


1. and 2. Acupuncture can help but even more... I would see an Acupunturist who also specializes in herbology!  There are many great herbs that help detoxify the liver.

3.  Yes its a possiblity, but you should always continue to monitor your liver enzymes.  The less you drink will obviously help too.

Have a great day.

Dr. O'Brien