Q: Dear Dr. Mao,
I am in my early twenties and I have just been diagnosed with Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia (PSVT). Can acupuncture help? I have seen a cardiologist and he wants to schedule surgery. I would like to avoid surgery if possible.
A: Although PSVT is typically not a life threatening condition and has many non-invasive treatment protocols, including acupuncture, I must conclude from the cardiologist’s decision that there may be other underlying physical Heart abnormalities that warranted his decision to recommend operating. I believe the physician is acting in good faith; I cannot counteract his recommendations, especially since I am not privy to the diagnostic information he has at his disposal. I would suggest you arrange a consultation with the cardiologist and ask him to explain the reasoning for the recommendation and the procedure in detail.
