Asthma is a long-term condition in which the airways become inflamed and narrow, causing wheeze, cough and breathlessness. It affects children and adults, and it is controlled with medicines prescribed by a doctor.
Common symptoms
- Wheezing, a whistling sound when breathing out
- Cough, especially at night or early morning
- Chest tightness and shortness of breath
- Symptoms triggered by exercise, cold air or dust
Common triggers
- Dust mites, pets, mould and pollen
- Haze, smoke and air pollution
- Colds and other infections
- Exercise, cold air and strong smells
- Stress and some medicines
Medical care comes first
Asthma is managed with a reliever inhaler and, for many people, a daily preventer inhaler. Please do not stop or reduce your inhalers, and keep your reliever with you. Your doctor can give you a written asthma action plan.
Acupuncture and herbal medicine as support
At The Tole, acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine are offered as supportive care alongside, never in place of, your asthma medicines. They aim to support the lungs and general wellbeing between flare-ups.
Research on acupuncture and herbal medicine for asthma is mixed and does not show they replace inhalers. Please tell us everything you take.
Acupuncture and herbal treatment at The Tole
At The Tole, treatment combines neuro acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine. The Master’s team reviews your history and any medical reports, then recommends acupuncture, herbal preparations, or both. Herbs are prepared for the individual, using natural herbs and the family’s ancestral formulas.
You can walk in during opening hours without an appointment. If you live far away, email your medical reports and we will advise you on herbs and, where suitable, an intensive course of acupuncture. Herbs can be couriered to any country, usually in 3 to 5 working days. See herbs by post.
What to expect at your first visit
- Walk in or message us. No appointment is needed during opening hours. You can also send a WhatsApp message first.
- Tell us your story. The Master’s team asks about your symptoms and history, and looks at any reports you bring.
- Agree a plan. They recommend neuro acupuncture, herbal medicine, or both, and explain what to expect.
- Follow up. If you take herbs, we ask you to update us on your progress by email.
Why people choose The Tole
- A family practice, now in its fourth generation, in Kuala Lumpur since 1992
- Officially opened by the Health Minister on 31 January 1993
- Herbal formulas prepared for each patient, using natural herbs
- Walk-ins welcome, and herbs couriered to any country
Common questions
Can acupuncture replace my inhaler?
No. Never stop your asthma medicine. Acupuncture and herbs are offered only as support, and the evidence for them in asthma is limited.
Can children be treated?
Yes, with gentle techniques and doses chosen for the child. Please bring your child’s asthma plan and list of medicines.
What should I do during an asthma attack?
Use your reliever inhaler as directed in your action plan and get emergency help if it does not ease the symptoms. Do not wait for a clinic visit.
See a doctor first if
- Severe breathlessness, trouble speaking in full sentences, blue lips, or a reliever inhaler that is not helping. Call emergency services (999 in Malaysia) now
- Needing your reliever more than twice a week, or night-time symptoms
- A first episode of wheeze, particularly in a child
- Before changing any asthma medicine or adding an herb
Ready to talk to us?
Message us on WhatsApp, or walk in during opening hours. No appointment is needed.
Traditional Chinese medicine is offered as a complement to, not a replacement for, medical care. We do not promise a cure or a particular result, and responses vary from person to person. Please keep your doctor informed about any herbs or treatments you use.