Discover the world of traditional Chinese medicine and its symptoms.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) takes a holistic view of the human body and its ailments and is based on the concept of the balance of yin and yang and the flow of qi (vital energy) through the meridians. TCM distinguishes between various symptoms that can indicate disharmony in the body.
Some common complaints according to TCM include
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), blood deficiency is described as a condition in which there is a lack of blood in the body. Blood plays an important role in TCM, not only in supplying nutrients to the body, but also in maintaining balance and health. A lack of blood can cause various symptoms that are typically associated with a lack of yin aspects. The most common complaints of blood deficiency include:
Pallor: People with blood deficiency often have a pale skin color due to a lack of red blood cells and reduced blood circulation.
Fatigue and weakness: Blood deficiency can lead to general weakness, fatigue and exhaustion as the blood cannot deliver enough nutrients and oxygen to the cells and tissues of the body.
Dizziness and dizzy spells: A lack of blood can lead to dizziness, especially when standing up or during physical exertion, due to an insufficient supply of oxygen to the brain.
Palpitations and shortness of breath: People with a lack of blood may experience palpitations and shortness of breath as the heart tries to compensate for the lack of blood by increasing the heart rate.
Sleep disorders: Blood deficiency can lead to sleep disturbances, including difficulty falling asleep, restless sleep or frequent awakenings during the night.
Concentration problems and poor memory: A lack of blood can also lead to concentration problems, poor memory and a general feeling of confusion or lack of clarity.
Dryness and cracking: A lack of blood can lead to dry skin, brittle nails, dry hair and chapped lips, as the blood does not carry enough moisture to hydrate the tissues.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), blood stagnation is described as a condition in which the normal flow of blood in the body is blocked or obstructed. This can lead to an accumulation of blood in certain areas, which in turn causes various symptoms. The most common complaints of blood stagnation include:
Pain: Blood stagnation can lead to localized pain, which is often described as stabbing, pressing or pulling. This pain can occur at certain points in the body, particularly where the blood stagnation is located.
Swelling and edema: Swelling and edema may occur in areas where blood stagnation accumulates, which may manifest as swollen, tender or sensitive areas.
Discoloration of the skin: Blood stagnation can lead to discoloration of the skin, such as bruising, dark spots or purple discoloration. These discolorations may be persistent and may slowly disappear.
Digestive problems: Blood stagnation can also lead to digestive problems, such as bloating, abdominal cramps, constipation or irregular bowel movements.
Menstrual disorders: In women, blood stagnation can lead to menstrual disorders, such as irregular or painful periods, cramps, heavy menstrual flow or the absence of menstruation.
Feeling of heaviness or pressure: People with blood stagnation may experience a general feeling of heaviness or pressure in certain areas of the body, particularly where the blockage is located.
Emotional effects: Blood stagnation can also lead to emotional complaints, such as irritability, frustration, depression or mood swings.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), dampness is regarded as a type of pathogenic influence that can accumulate in the body and lead to various ailments. Dampness complaints are often caused by external influences such as damp weather, but also by internal factors such as a weakness in the Spleen and Kidney Qi, which are responsible for excreting dampness. The most common complaints of dampness in TCM include
Feeling of heaviness: dampness can lead to a general feeling of heaviness or tiredness in the body, which can manifest itself particularly in the limbs or abdomen.
Swelling and edema: Moisture can lead to swelling and edema in various areas of the body, such as swollen ankles, feet or hands.
Accumulation of mucus: Moisture tends to mix with other pathogenic factors and form mucus. This can lead to symptoms such as nasal congestion, nasal discharge, coughing with thick mucus, mucus in the stool or a feeling of heaviness and sluggishness.
Digestive disorders: Moisture can impair digestive function and lead to symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, nausea, poor appetite or a feeling of fullness after eating.
Skin problems: Moisture can lead to skin problems such as acne, rashes, itching, eczema or skin infections.
Joint problems: Moisture can accumulate in the joints and cause stiffness, swelling, pain and inflammation, especially in damp or cold weather conditions.
Emotional effects: Dampness can also lead to emotional complaints such as melancholy, apathy, depression or a feeling of low spirits.
The treatment of dampness complaints in TCM aims to remove dampness from the body, promote the flow of Qi and blood and strengthen the function of the spleen and kidneys.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), heat is regarded as a pathogenic factor that can arise in the body and lead to various complaints. Heat can be caused by external influences such as hot weather, sunlight or infections, but also by internal factors such as emotional stress or an unbalanced diet. The most common complaints of heat in TCM include
Fever: Heat in the body can lead to an increased body temperature known as a fever. This can be accompanied by a hot feeling in the body, sweating and a general feeling of discomfort.
Thirst: Heat in the body can lead to a strong feeling of thirst, as the body tries to cool down and compensate for the loss of fluids.
Redness: Heat can cause reddening of the skin, particularly on the face, but also on other parts of the body.
Inflammation: Heat tends to increase inflammation in the body. This can manifest itself in symptoms such as swelling, redness, pain and sensitivity, particularly in the joints or around the eyes.
Restlessness and irritability: Heat in the body can lead to a feeling of restlessness, irritability, nervousness and insomnia as it stirs up the heart and mind.
Hot flashes: Women may experience hot flashes caused by heat in the body, typically associated with hormonal changes such as menopause.
Digestive problems: Heat can affect digestive function and lead to symptoms such as heartburn, stomach discomfort, diarrhea or dry stools.
Eye problems: Heat in the body can lead to eye problems, such as red eyes, dryness, irritation or blurred vision.
The treatment of heat complaints in TCM aims to reduce the heat in the body, restore the balance of bodily functions and treat the underlying causes of the heat.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the symptom "Heat in the Yang Ming" refers to an accumulation of pathological heat in the Yang Ming meridian, which includes the Stomach and Large Intestine. This disorder may be caused by external heat, unhealthy diet or other factors. The main characteristics of heat in the Yang Ming are:
High fever: Persistent high fever without chills.
Heavy sweating: Excessive sweating, especially on the head and upper body.
Thirst: Severe thirst, often for cold drinks.
Dry mouth and tongue: Dryness in the mouth and a red tongue with a yellow, dry coating.
Facial flushing: Red face and red eyes.
Restlessness and irritability: Nervousness, restlessness and quick irritability.
Constipation and abdominal pain: Hard, dry stools and pain in the abdominal area.
Strong pulse: Rapid and strong pulse.
The treatment of heat in Yang Ming in TCM aims to clear the excessive heat and restore balance in the stomach and large intestine meridian. This can be achieved through acupuncture, herbal medicine and appropriate diet. The goal is to reduce heat, restore body fluids and harmonize digestive function.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the symptom "Heat in the Ying Xue Fen" (Ying and Xue level) refers to a deep and severe form of pathological heat affecting the Ying Qi (Nourishing Qi) and Blood (Xue). This disorder can occur as a result of inadequately treated or very advanced disease. The main characteristics of heat in the Ying Xue Fen are:
High fever: Persistent high fever that gets worse at night.
Sleep disturbances: Insomnia, restless sleep and occasional delirious states.
Mental agitation: Severe restlessness, anxiety and confusion.
Dry mouth, without much thirst: Mouth is dry but there is little or no thirst.
Skin rashes: Red, pinpoint rashes or bleeding of the skin indicating damage to blood vessels.
Tongue: Red or dark red tongue with little or no coating.
Bleeding: Spontaneous bleeding such as nosebleeds, coughing up blood, bleeding in the urine or stool.
Weak and Rapid Pulse: The pulse is rapid but weak, indicating damage to Yin and Blood.
The treatment of heat in Ying Xue Fen in TCM aims to cool the pathological heat, protect the Ying Qi and blood and stabilize the body. This is achieved through specific acupuncture techniques and herbal medicine aimed at eliminating heat from deep within the body and protecting the blood vessels. The aim is to restore internal balance and stabilize the patient's health.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the symptom "hyperactive liver yang" describes a condition in which the yang of the liver becomes excessively strong and rises. This can be caused by stress, emotional strain, unhealthy lifestyle habits or an underlying weakness of liver yin. The main characteristics of hyperactive liver yang are:
Headaches: Frequent, pulsating headaches, often in the temporal or parietal region.
Dizziness: Dizziness and lightheadedness.
Tinnitus: Ringing in the ears or tinnitus that can be aggravated by stress.
Irritability and anger: Easily upset, quick temper and anger.
Insomnia: Insomnia and restless sleep.
Red face and eyes: facial flushing and red, irritated eyes.
Dryness: dry mouth and eyes, which may indicate an underlying Yin weakness.
Tongue and pulse diagnosis: red tongue, often with little coating, and a tense, stringy pulse.
The treatment of hyperactive liver yang in TCM aims to calm the ascending yang and strengthen the yin. This is achieved through acupuncture, herbal medicine and nutritional therapy. The aim is to restore the balance between yin and yang, calm the mind and alleviate symptoms.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the symptom "Jing deficiency (kidney)" refers to a depletion or weakness of the essence (Jing) in the kidneys. Jing is considered to be the fundamental life energy responsible for growth, development, reproduction and general vitality. A deficiency of Jing in the Kidneys can be caused by congenital weakness, ageing, chronic illness or excessive exhaustion. The main characteristics of Jing deficiency in the kidney are:
Developmental disorders: Delayed physical or mental development in children.
Premature ageing: Premature signs of ageing such as grey hair, hair loss or wrinkles.
Weak bones and teeth: Osteoporosis, toothache or tooth loss.
Fertility problems: Infertility, impotence or reduced libido.
Weakness and fatigue: General weakness, tiredness and listlessness.
Memory problems: Memory loss or difficulty concentrating.
Hearing problems: Tinnitus or hearing loss.
Tongue and pulse diagnosis: Pale tongue with thin coating and a deep, weak pulse.
The treatment of Jing deficiency in the kidney aims to strengthen the kidneys and nourish the essence (Jing). This is achieved through acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary adjustments and lifestyle changes. The aim is to restore vitality, improve overall wellbeing and slow down the ageing process.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), cold complaints are regarded as symptoms and diseases caused by an imbalance of yin and yang in the body, with yin aspects predominating. Cold is a yin state that leads to a lack of warmth and activity. Typically, cold symptoms are caused by external influences such as cold, damp or wind. The most common cold symptoms include
Feeling cold: Those affected often feel a deep, unpleasant coldness in their body that seems difficult to warm up. This can manifest itself as cold hands and feet, a feeling of coldness in the back or general shivering.
Stiffness and pain: Cold can cause stiffness and pain in the joints and muscles, especially in cold weather or after prolonged exposure to cold.
Digestive problems: Cold can also affect digestive function and lead to symptoms such as abdominal cramps, diarrhea or a general feeling of sluggishness after eating.
Menstrual cramps: Women can suffer from cold symptoms during menstruation, which can manifest as severe cramps, a feeling of coldness in the lower abdomen or an irregular menstrual cycle.
Nose and throat complaints: Cold can also lead to symptoms such as nasal congestion, sinusitis, sore throat or a general feeling of coldness in the airways.
Weakness and fatigue: Cold can weaken the Qi and lead to a general feeling of exhaustion, weakness and fatigue.
Similar to dampness, wetness refers to an accumulation of fluid in the body that can lead to heaviness, edema, indigestion and sluggishness.
In TCM, the kidneys are the root of life and regulate important functions such as growth, reproduction and the regulation of water balance. A deficiency of kidney yin or kidney yang can lead to a variety of symptoms such as infertility, loss of libido, back pain, weakness of the knees, increased urination or urinary incontinence.
A deficiency of Qi in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a condition in which there is a lack of vital energy that impairs the normal flow of Qi in the body. Qi is the vital life force that supports and maintains all bodily functions. A lack of Qi can lead to a variety of ailments that can manifest both physically and emotionally. Here are some common symptoms of Qi deficiency:
Tiredness and exhaustion: A lack of Qi can lead to persistent tiredness, weakness and a general feeling of exhaustion.
Weak immune defense: Since Qi plays an important role in strengthening the immune system, people with a Qi deficiency can be more susceptible to infections and diseases.
Concentration problems: A lack of Qi can lead to concentration problems, poor memory and a general feeling of mental weakness.
Loss of appetite: A lack of Qi can affect the appetite and lead to a reduced feeling of hunger or a lack of interest in eating.
Shortness of breath: People with a Qi deficiency can suffer from breathing difficulties, especially during physical exertion or stressful situations.
Weakness of the limbs: A deficiency of Qi can lead to weakness, muscle atrophy or a feeling of limpness in the limbs.
Paleness: A lack of Qi can lead to a pale skin color, as the vital life energy also influences blood circulation and blood flow.
Sleep disorders: People with a Qi deficiency may suffer from sleep disorders, including insomnia, restless sleep or frequent awakenings during the night.
Emotional instability: A lack of Qi can lead to emotional instability, irritability, anxiety or depressive moods.
The treatment of Qi deficiency in TCM aims to regulate the flow of Qi in the body, promote the production of Qi and restore balance in the body.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the symptom "Qi deficiency of the Lung" refers to a weakness of Lung Qi, which affects breathing, the immune system and the distribution of Qi throughout the body. This weakness can be caused by chronic illness, persistent cough, emotional stress or a weak constitutional type. The main characteristics of Qi deficiency of the lung are:
Shortness of breath: Frequent shortness of breath made worse by exertion.
Weak voice: Quiet or weak voice and tendency to clear throat frequently.
Cough: Slight, persistent cough with little or no phlegm.
Fatigue: General tiredness, exhaustion and listlessness.
Tendency to sweat: Increased sweating, especially during the day and with little exertion.
Susceptibility to colds: Frequent respiratory infections and a weakened immune system.
Pale face: Pale or sallow face and pale lips.
Tongue and pulse diagnosis: Pale tongue with a thin, white coating and a weak, empty pulse.
The treatment of lung qi deficiency in TCM aims to strengthen the lung qi, support the respiratory tract and improve immune function. This is achieved through acupuncture, herbal medicine and specific breathing exercises as well as dietary adjustments. The aim is to tonify the Qi, harmonize lung function and promote general well-being.
A deficiency of yang in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) refers to a condition in which there is a lack of heat, activity and energy in the body. Yang represents the active, warming and moving energy in the body that is necessary to maintain bodily functions. A lack of yang can lead to various ailments that can manifest both physically and emotionally. Here are some common symptoms of yang deficiency:
Feeling cold: People with a Yang deficiency often feel cold, even in warm environments. They have cold hands and feet, and their body temperature may be lower than normal.
Tiredness and exhaustion: A lack of Yang can lead to persistent tiredness, weakness and a general feeling of exhaustion.
Weak digestion: People with a yang deficiency can suffer from weak digestion, which can manifest itself in flatulence, bloating, diarrhea or irregular bowel movements.
Water retention: Yang deficiency can lead to water retention in the body, which can manifest as swelling or edema in the limbs.
Weight gain: Some people with a Yang deficiency may gain weight, as a slow metabolism and poor digestion can lead to insufficient calorie burning.
Weak immune system: As Yang plays an important role in strengthening the immune system, people with a Yang deficiency may be more susceptible to infections and diseases.
Weak cardiovascular system: A lack of Yang can lead to a weak cardiovascular system, which can manifest itself in symptoms such as low blood pressure, slow heart rate or dizziness.
Depression and emotional instability: A lack of Yang can lead to depressive moods, anxiety, irritability and emotional instability.
The treatment of yang deficiency in TCM aims to strengthen the yang in the body, promote warmth and restore the balance between yin and yang.
A deficiency of yang in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) refers to a condition in which there is a lack of heat, activity and energy in the body. Yang represents the active, warming and moving energy in the body that is necessary to maintain bodily functions. A lack of yang can lead to various ailments that can manifest both physically and emotionally. Here are some common symptoms of yang deficiency:
Feeling cold: People with a Yang deficiency often feel cold, even in warm environments. They have cold hands and feet, and their body temperature may be lower than normal.
Tiredness and exhaustion: A lack of Yang can lead to persistent tiredness, weakness and a general feeling of exhaustion.
Weak digestion: People with a yang deficiency can suffer from weak digestion, which can manifest itself in flatulence, bloating, diarrhea or irregular bowel movements.
Water retention: Yang deficiency can lead to water retention in the body, which can manifest as swelling or edema in the limbs.
Weight gain: Some people with a Yang deficiency may gain weight, as a slow metabolism and poor digestion can lead to insufficient calorie burning.
Weak immune system: As Yang plays an important role in strengthening the immune system, people with a Yang deficiency may be more susceptible to infections and diseases.
Weak cardiovascular system: A lack of Yang can lead to a weak cardiovascular system, which can manifest itself in symptoms such as low blood pressure, slow heart rate or dizziness.
Depression and emotional instability: A lack of Yang can lead to depressive moods, anxiety, irritability and emotional instability.
The treatment of yang deficiency in TCM aims to strengthen the yang in the body, promote warmth and restore the balance between yin and yang.