Ascites Due To Liver Cirrhosis in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different ascites due to liver cirrhosis patterns according to TCM theory
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Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Ascites due to liver cirrhosis is a medical condition where fluid accumulates in the abdomen as a result of chronic liver damage. This buildup of fluid, typically associated with advanced liver disease, leads to abdominal swelling and discomfort.
Liver cirrhosis, which signifies long-term scarring and dysfunction of the liver, often results from chronic alcohol abuse, hepatitis infections, or nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Ascites is one of the most serious complications of cirrhosis, indicating a significant decline in liver function.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perceives ascites due to liver cirrhosis as an imbalance in the body's vital energies, primarily concerning the liver and spleen. TCM theory suggests that Liver dysfunction disrupts the flow of Qi and Blood, while a weakened spleen contributes to poor fluid management.
This imbalance results in fluid accumulation and the manifestation of ascites. TCM approaches focus on restoring harmony to the Qi and enhancing organ functionality.
TCM Patterns for Ascites Due To Liver Cirrhosis
Qi Deficiency
Insufficient vital energy causing fatigue, weakness, poor digestion, and reduced function of organs and protective systems
Causes: Edema, General sensation of heaviness, Diarrhea, Urinary difficulty
Phlegm
Thick, sticky pathological fluid that obstructs body functions and can manifest anywhere in the body
Causes: Throbbing pulsations just below the umbilicus, Vomiting frothy saliva, Vertigo, Shortness of breath, Coughing, Cough with pain in the chest and hypochondria, Hard focal distention in the epigastrium, Dry heaves, Headaches, Oedema of abdomen, Oedema of ankles, Oedema of face, Oedema of feet, Oedema of hands, Oedema of legs, Eye swelling, Abdomen distension, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Muzziness of the head, Dizziness
Yang Deficiency
Insufficient yang qi causing coldness, fatigue, and diminished physiological functions throughout the body
Causes: Abdominal pain that worsens with cold, Urinary difficulty, Deep aching and heaviness in the extremities, Dizziness, Heavy sensation in the head, Edema, Loose stools, Palpitations, Coughing, Vomiting, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Lassitude, Desire to lie down curled up, Pale complexion, Cold limbs, Chills, Undigested food in the stools, Gas, Bloating, Abdominal pain and distension relieved by pressure and warmth, Sallow complexion
Exterior Cold invading the Interior
Causes: Abdominal pain, Constipation, Hypochondriac pain, Chills, Low-grade fever, Cold hands and feet, Sweating that doesn't reduce fever, Palpitations in the epigastrium, Dizziness, Generalized twitching, Unsteadiness
Herbal Formulas for Ascites Due To Liver Cirrhosis
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address ascites due to liver cirrhosis