| If you are thinking of using alternative | | | | completely replaces conventional |
| medicine to address some of your health | | | | medicine. Many practices and procedures |
| concerns, read on to find out more. | | | | are included in this broad category. An |
| Alternative and complementary medicine | | | | example of this is making use of a |
| is defined as varied health care and | | | | special dietary procedure rather than |
| medical systems, products and practices | | | | going through surgery or chemotherapy |
| that are not categorized as part of | | | | radiation in treating cancer. Most |
| conventional medicine. Although there is | | | | insurance companies do not provide |
| scientific evidence that supports | | | | coverage for these kinds of practices. |
| complementary alternative medicines | | | | Integrative Medicine |
| (CAM), a lot of practices still lack | | | | You can also make use of what is known |
| credibility. Concerns on safety and | | | | as integrative medicine, which mixes |
| effectiveness remain an open issue. | | | | conventional medical treatments with |
| Some forms of alternative medicine have | | | | complementary alternative medicine |
| already been proven effective and safe | | | | methods. |
| and are accepted by traditional health | | | | Integrative medicine is known as a |
| care systems. | | | | complete approach to patient care and |
| Complementary vis-à-vis alternative | | | | involves body, mind and spirit. An |
| medicine | | | | example of this is the use of relaxation |
| What is the difference between | | | | techniques to minimize stress during |
| complementary and alternative medicine? | | | | chemotherapy sessions. |
| Complementary medicine is utilized with | | | | Take your pick from these types of |
| traditional medicine. An example of this | | | | medical treatments for your particular |
| is making use of aromatherapy to make | | | | concern. You can choose from a variety |
| patients be at ease after surgery. | | | | of medical practices, whether |
| Another example is the use of | | | | conventional, complementary, alternative |
| acupuncture to minimize side effects of | | | | or integrative medicine, to suit your |
| cancer treatments in patients. | | | | health needs. You should research |
| On the other hand, alternative medicine | | | | thoroughly before doing anything. |