Conventional Medicine vs. Alternative Medicine

Sonomed Escalon Corp’s VP of telemedicine and image management, Shae Kennedy Reber is a biotechnology graduate of Delaware Valley College in Doylestown, Pennsylvania. Additionally, Shae Kennedy Reber is interested in alternative medicine.

Conventional medicine relies on scientific research to diagnose and treat symptoms and may include medications, surgery, physical rehabilitation, radiotherapy, and psychotherapy. Healthcare professionals in hospitals, clinics, and doctor’s offices use this approach.

Alternative medicine, also known as integrative or complementary medicine, is any medical treatment not considered part of conventional Western medicine. These treatments aim to stimulate the body’s natural healing abilities and promote health without relying on medication or surgery. Examples include chiropractic, herbal medicine, and energy therapies.

Conventional and alternative medicine have pros and cons. Conventional medicine benefits include a deep understanding of diseases, improved safety and efficacy of treatments, and the ability to detect, diagnose, and treat diseases. However, there are risks of negative side effects, drug interactions, overdosing, and misdiagnosis.

Alternative medicine can offer holistic health care and avoid the risks of conventional medicine. However, risks include ineffective and unproven treatments and dangerous interactions with other treatments.

Ultimately, the choice between conventional and alternative medicine depends on the patient’s preference and health needs. Individuals must carefully weigh the benefits and risks of both types before making treatment decisions.