Cardiogenic Shock in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different cardiogenic shock patterns according to TCM theory
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Cardiogenic shock is a severe medical condition where the heart suddenly can't pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. This type of shock is caused by a severe dysfunction of the heart muscles, often resulting from a heart attack or other acute cardiac events. The condition is characterized by symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, shallow breathing, cold and sweaty skin, and a rapid drop in blood pressure, leading to inadequate blood flow to organs, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a distinct perspective on cardiogenic shock, focusing on the concept of energetic imbalances within the body. TCM does not singularly attribute the shock to heart muscle dysfunction but sees it as a severe disturbance in the body's vital energy — specifically, a Collapse of Yang energy.
This holistic approach emphasizes the importance of identifying the specific patterns of disharmony affecting each patient. By pinpointing these patterns, practitioners can tailor treatments that address the root causes of the shock rather than just the symptoms.
Herbal Formulas for Cardiogenic Shock
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address cardiogenic shock