Regression of carotid artery stenosis and complete asthma control with personalised eight constitution medicine therapy: A geriatric asthma case study

Introduction Older adults with asthma and multimorbidity face complex management challenges. Persistent asthma is linked to increased carotid plaque burden and heightened risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). High-dose inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) further elevate systemic risk in this population. This mixed-methods single case study examines the use of personalised Eight Constitution Medicine (ECM)—integrating constitution-specific acupuncture and lifestyle interventions (diet, breathing, bathing, and exercise)—to improve asthma control, cardiovascular health, and quality of life in a geriatric patient. Case Presentation A 70-year-old man with poorly controlled asthma (Asthma Control Questionnaire [ACQ] = 1.5), moderate carotid artery stenosis (50–60%), and mobility impairment underwent 27 weeks of personalised ECM therapy. Despite high-dose inhaled corticosteroids/long-acting β₂-agonist (ICS/LABA; 1000/100 mcg daily), he safely tapered ICS by 75% and LABA by 50%, achieving complete asthma control (ACQ = 0), exceeding the minimal clinically important difference (MCID ≥ 0.5). Quality of life improved significantly (Mini Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire [Mini-AQLQ] = 6.8; +89%; Z = +1.27) (MCID ≥ 0.5), with a 312% (Z = 1) gain in emotional function and an 86% (Z = 0.36) improvement in activity limitation. Peak expiratory flow (PEF) steadily increased, exceeding predicted values by 154% (Z = +2.21) at Week 23, while spirometry remained within normal limits. Carotid artery stenosis regressed to <30%, with normalisation of homocysteine and an increase in morning cortisol levels. Conclusion This case study suggests that ECM may serve as an integrative support to conventional asthma therapy in older adults with multimorbidity. Constitution-specific acupuncture and personalised lifestyle interventions supported a step-down of medication, improved asthma control, and enhanced quality of life, with possible reductions in ASCVD and adrenal suppression risks. These findings indicate that ECM, as a personalised, whole-person approach, may help address the broader systemic challenges of managing asthma in older adults. However, further controlled case series, longitudinal cohort studies, and pragmatic clinical trials are required to evaluate these preliminary findings and determine their efficacy, safety, and generalisability. Funding This research was supported by the Higher Degree by Research (HDR) program at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS).