Chest Distension in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different chest distension patterns according to TCM theory
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Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Chest distension involves a feeling of tightness, pressure, or swelling within the chest area. It is often described as a sensation of fullness or congestion, sometimes accompanied by mild discomfort or a sense of the chest being swollen or overly full. This symptom can vary in intensity and may be perceived as either a localized or more generalized area of discomfort within the thoracic region.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches chest distension not just as a singular symptom but as a signal of underlying imbalances within the body’s energetic systems. TCM emphasizes understanding the specific pattern of disharmony causing the symptom. This holistic approach ensures that treatment is tailored to the individual’s unique constellation of signs and symptoms, aiming to restore balance and health by addressing the root causes rather than just the manifestation of distension.
TCM Patterns for Chest Distension
Phlegm
Thick, sticky pathological fluid that obstructs body functions and can manifest anywhere in the body
Causes: Chest fullness, Focal distention
Phlegm is both a pathological product and a pathogenic factor in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It results from impaired fluid metabolism when the body's transformative functions fail, particularly affecting the Spleen, Lungs, and Kidneys. Classical texts emphasize that "the Spleen is the source of phlegm production, while the Lungs are the storage vessel for phlegm."
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Chest fullness
Along with: Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Infertility, Ovarian cysts, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness
Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs
Chest fullness
Along with: Coughing, Pale face, Sputum, Stifling sensation in the chest, Shortness of breath, Discomfort when lying down, Wheezing, Nausea, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum, Asthma, Chest distension
Phlegm
Chest fullness
Along with: Stifling sensation in the chest, Head fog, Dizziness
Phlegm-Fluids
Chest fullness
Along with: Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Feeling of heaviness, Shortness of breath, Hypochondrial pain that is worse on coughing and breathing, Coughing, Lack of sweating, Absence of thirst, Edema, Chest distension
Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine
Chest fullness
Along with: Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Dry tongue, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Stomach splashing sound, Chest distension, Diarrhea, Weight loss
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Chest fullness
Along with: Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Head and body heaviness, Dizziness, Copious thick yellow sputum
Phlegm-Heat
Focal distention, Chest fullness
Along with: Upper abdominal oppression, Mucous in feces, Depression
Damp-Cold Phlegm
Focal distention
Along with: Nausea, Vomit, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Palpitations, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum, Upper respiratory tract infections, Chronic bronchitis, Emphysema, Goitre
Phlegm-Dampness in the Middle-Burner
Focal distention
Along with: Nausea, Vomit, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Profuse white sputum, Anorexia, Peptic ulcer, Chronic gastritis, Acid reflux, Abdominal pain, Bloated abdomen
Dampness
Heavy, sticky moisture that obstructs body functions and creates sluggishness
Causes: Chest fullness, Focal distention, Feeling of fullness in the chest
Dampness manifests as swelling, bloating, a feeling of heaviness in the head and limbs, and digestive issues. It's like having waterlogged tissues that make everything feel heavy and slow. Common signs include a thick, greasy tongue coating, sticky mouth sensation, and stools that are difficult to flush.
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Chest fullness
Along with: Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Stifling sensation in the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Infertility, Ovarian cysts, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness
Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs
Chest fullness
Along with: Coughing, Pale face, Sputum, Stifling sensation in the chest, Shortness of breath, Discomfort when lying down, Wheezing, Nausea, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum, Asthma, Chest distension
Summer Heat with Dampness
Chest fullness
Along with: Fever, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Anxiety, Thirst, Chest distension, Loss of appetite
Wind-Cold-Damp invading with Qi Deficiency
Focal distention, Feeling of fullness in the chest
Along with: High fever, Fever without perspiration, Headaches, Neck pain, Stiff neck, Painful extremities, Chest distension, Congested nose, Noisy breathing, Coughing
Damp-Cold Phlegm
Focal distention
Along with: Nausea, Vomit, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Palpitations, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum, Upper respiratory tract infections, Chronic bronchitis, Emphysema, Goitre
Phlegm-Dampness in the Middle-Burner
Focal distention
Along with: Nausea, Vomit, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Profuse white sputum, Anorexia, Peptic ulcer, Chronic gastritis, Acid reflux, Abdominal pain, Bloated abdomen
Qi Stagnation
Blocked or disrupted flow of vital energy causing distending pain, emotional distress, and symptoms that worsen with stress
Causes: Chest distension, Chest distention, Chest fullness, Feeling of fullness in the chest
Qi Stagnation is a fundamental pathological pattern in Traditional Chinese Medicine where the smooth flow of vital energy becomes obstructed, creating areas of pressure, pain, and dysfunction throughout the body.
Liver Qi Stagnation
Chest distension
Along with: Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Irregular periods, Globus sensation, Pre menstrual breast distension, Pre menstrual tension, Anxiety, Anger, Melasma
Qi Stagnation in Chest
Chest distention, Chest fullness
Along with: Chest stiffness, Chest distension, Chest pain, Chest pain improve with massage, Desire for hot beverages and foods, Bleeding during pregnancy
Qi And Blood Stagnation
Chest fullness, Feeling of fullness in the chest
Along with: Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails, Irritability, Mood swings, Depression, Mottled skin, Foot edema, Abdominal masses, Melena black tarry stool, Menstrual cramps, Amenorrhea, Dark menstrual clots, Dark menstrual blood, Prolonged lochia, Irregular periods, Melasma
Heart Qi Stagnation
Chest fullness
Along with: Palpitations, Chest distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Depression
Pericardium Qi Stagnation
Chest fullness
Along with: Mild chest pain, Chest distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sighing, Throat lumps, Palpitations, Depression, Irritability, Loss of appetite, Weak limbs, Cold extremities
Heat
Intense, ascending pathogenic force that consumes body fluids, disturbs the mind, and accelerates all physiological processes
Causes: Chest fullness, Focal distention
Heat is a major pathogenic factor in Traditional Chinese Medicine that can arise from external invasion or internal generation. Heat has the characteristics of burning intensity, rising upward, consuming qi and fluids, and generating wind and disturbing blood. In TCM philosophy, normal physiological warmth is called "minor fire" (少火) which maintains life functions, while pathological heat is "major fire" (壮火) which damages the body.
Half Exterior Half Interior
Chest fullness
Along with: Chest distension, Bitter taste in the mouth, Dry cough, Anxiety, Restlessness, Vomit, Loss of appetite, Dizziness, Blurry vision
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Chest fullness
Along with: Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Head and body heaviness, Dizziness, Copious thick yellow sputum
Phlegm-Heat
Focal distention, Chest fullness
Along with: Upper abdominal oppression, Mucous in feces, Depression
Heat in Yang brightness Organs
Focal distention
Along with: Severe constipation, Excessive gas and flatulence, Abdominal fullness, Abdominal pain worsened by pressure, Abdominal tightness, Pancreatitis, Appendicitis, Cholecystitis, Bacillary dysentery, Icteric hepatitis
Blood Stasis
Blood that is no longer flowing smoothly through the vessels
Causes: Chest fullness, Feeling of fullness in the chest
Blood Stasis represents blood that is no longer flowing smoothly through the vessels, either moving too slowly, pooling in certain areas, or congealing into clots. It's one of the most important pathological conditions in Traditional Chinese Medicine and can be both a result of disease and a cause of further illness.
Qi And Blood Stagnation
Chest fullness, Feeling of fullness in the chest
Along with: Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails, Irritability, Mood swings, Depression, Mottled skin, Foot edema, Abdominal masses, Melena black tarry stool, Menstrual cramps, Amenorrhea, Dark menstrual clots, Dark menstrual blood, Prolonged lochia, Irregular periods, Melasma
Pericardium Blood Stagnation
Chest fullness
Along with: Palpitations, Chest pain, Chest distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Shortness of breath, Purple lips, Purple nails, Menstrual cramps, Dark menstrual clots
Blood Deficiency
Insufficient blood to nourish the body, causing paleness, dizziness, and dryness throughout the system
Causes: Chest fullness
Blood Deficiency represents a fundamental lack of blood volume or quality in the body, resulting in organs, tissues, and the mind being undernourished. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, blood not only refers to the red fluid in our vessels but encompasses the body's entire nourishing and moistening functions.
Pericardium Blood Deficiency
Chest fullness
Along with: Chest distension, Chest stiffness, Chest pain, Palpitations, Insomnia, Poor memory
Blood Deficiency with disharmony of Liver and Spleen
Chest fullness
Along with: Chest distension, Chest pain, Anemia, Dizziness, Headaches, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Loss of appetite, Irregular periods, Leukorrhea
Cold
Congeals body fluids, damages Yang Qi, and causes pain with fixed location
Causes: Focal distention, Feeling of fullness in the chest
Cold is the predominant pathogenic factor of winter in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Cold represents an environmental pathogen that, when excessive, causes disease characterized by its cold, congealing, and contracting nature. While Cold is the main pathogen of winter, it can cause illness in any season through exposure to cold temperatures, getting caught in rain, sweating followed by wind exposure, or excessive air conditioning.
Wind-Cold-Damp invading with Qi Deficiency
Focal distention, Feeling of fullness in the chest
Along with: High fever, Fever without perspiration, Headaches, Neck pain, Stiff neck, Painful extremities, Chest distension, Congested nose, Noisy breathing, Coughing
Damp-Cold Phlegm
Focal distention
Along with: Nausea, Vomit, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Palpitations, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum, Upper respiratory tract infections, Chronic bronchitis, Emphysema, Goitre
Qi Deficiency
Insufficient vital energy causing fatigue, weakness, poor digestion, and reduced function of organs and protective systems
Causes: Focal distention, Feeling of fullness in the chest
Qi Deficiency is a fundamental pattern in Traditional Chinese Medicine where the body's vital energy is insufficient to maintain normal physiological functions, leading to weakness, fatigue, and various organ dysfunctions.
Wind-Cold-Damp invading with Qi Deficiency
Focal distention, Feeling of fullness in the chest
Along with: High fever, Fever without perspiration, Headaches, Neck pain, Stiff neck, Painful extremities, Chest distension, Congested nose, Noisy breathing, Coughing
Summer Heat
Intense summer heat that rapidly depletes both energy and fluids
Causes: Chest fullness
Summer-Heat (暑 Shǔ) is a unique pathogenic factor in Traditional Chinese Medicine that only occurs during summer. Unlike other disease-causing factors in TCM that can arise internally or externally, Summer-Heat always comes from the environment - specifically from exposure to intense summer heat and humidity.
Summer Heat with Dampness
Chest fullness
Along with: Fever, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Anxiety, Thirst, Chest distension, Loss of appetite
Wind
Causes sudden symptoms, movement disorders, and serves as the vehicle for other pathogens
Causes: Focal distention, Feeling of fullness in the chest
Wind is the predominant pathogenic factor of spring in Traditional Chinese Medicine and is considered the leader of the six external pathogens. Wind is described as "the leader of the hundred diseases" (百病之长), serving as the primary factor in external pathogenic invasions. Wind represents a pathogen characterized by constant movement, changeability, and a tendency to affect the upper and outer portions of the body.
Wind-Cold-Damp invading with Qi Deficiency
Focal distention, Feeling of fullness in the chest
Along with: High fever, Fever without perspiration, Headaches, Neck pain, Stiff neck, Painful extremities, Chest distension, Congested nose, Noisy breathing, Coughing
Herbal Formulas for Chest Distension
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address chest distension
Er Chen Tang
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Dries Dampness and Transforms Phlegm
- Regulates Qi and Harmonizes the Middle Burner
- Directs Rebellious Qi Downward and Stops Vomiting
- Strengthens the Spleen and Resolves Dampness
- Disperses stagnation in the chest and diaphragm
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Coughing, Pale face, Sputum, Stifling sensation in the chest, Shortness of breath, Discomfort when lying down...
Phlegm-Fluids
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Feeling of heaviness, Shortness of breath, Hypochondrial pain that is worse on coughing and breathing, Coughing...
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat...
Damp-Cold Phlegm
How it manifests:
Focal distention
Accompanying symptoms:
Nausea, Vomit, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Palpitations, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum...
Ban Xia Hou Po Tang
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Moves Qi and Dissipates Nodules
- Descends Qi
- Resolves Phlegm
- Dries Dampness
- Harmonizes the Stomach
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Heart Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Chest distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Depression
Phlegm
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Stifling sensation in the chest, Head fog, Dizziness
Pericardium Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Mild chest pain, Chest distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sighing, Throat lumps, Palpitations...
Wen Dan Tang
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Regulates Qi and Transforms Phlegm
- Clears Gallbladder and Stomach Heat
- Dries Dampness
- Stops vomiting and eliminates irritability
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Phlegm
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Stifling sensation in the chest, Head fog, Dizziness
Phlegm-Fluids
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Feeling of heaviness, Shortness of breath, Hypochondrial pain that is worse on coughing and breathing, Coughing...
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat...
Chai Hu Shu Gan San
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Courses the Liver and Resolves Constraint
- Moves Qi and Alleviates Pain
- Invigorates Blood and Dispels Stasis
- Harmonizes the Liver and Spleen
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Liver Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Chest distension
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia, Depression...
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Chest fullness, Feeling of fullness in the chest
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Jia Wei Xiao Yao San
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Courses the Liver and Resolves Constraint
- Clears Heat from the Liver and Blood
- Nourishes Blood
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Harmonizes the Liver and Spleen
- Regulates menstruation
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Liver Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Chest distension
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia, Depression...
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Chest fullness, Feeling of fullness in the chest
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Warms Yang and Transforms Fluid Retention
- Strengthens the Spleen and Resolves Dampness
- Subdues Rushing Qi (Ben Tun)
- Resolves Phlegm-Fluid Retention
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Fluids
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Feeling of heaviness, Shortness of breath, Hypochondrial pain that is worse on coughing and breathing, Coughing...
Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Dry tongue, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Stomach splashing sound, Chest distension...
Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Heat and Transforms Phlegm
- Regulates Qi and stops cough
- Descends Lung Qi and Calms Wheezing
- Dries Dampness and Transforms Phlegm
- Clears Lung Heat
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat...
Phlegm-Heat
How it manifests:
Focal distention, Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Upper abdominal oppression, Mucous in feces, Depression
Xiao Chai Hu Tang
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Harmonizes the Shaoyang
- Soothes the Liver and Regulates Qi
- Directs Rebellious Qi Downward and Stops Vomiting
- Supports the Upright and Dispels Pathogens
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Half Exterior Half Interior
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Bitter taste in the mouth, Dry cough, Anxiety, Restlessness, Vomit...
Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Dry tongue, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Stomach splashing sound, Chest distension...
Xiao Yao San
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Courses the Liver and Resolves Constraint
- Nourishes Blood and Softens the Liver
- Strengthens the Spleen and Harmonizes the Middle
- Harmonizes the Liver and Spleen
- Regulates menstruation
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Liver Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Chest distension
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia, Depression...
Blood Deficiency with disharmony of Liver and Spleen
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Anemia, Dizziness, Headaches, Dry mouth...
Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Invigorates Blood and Dispels Stasis
- Moves Qi and Alleviates Pain
- Opens the Chest and Disperses Stagnation
- Courses the Liver and Resolves Constraint
- Guides Herbs and Blood Downward
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Pericardium Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Palpitations, Chest pain, Chest distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Shortness of breath, Purple lips...
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Chest fullness, Feeling of fullness in the chest
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Yue Ju Wan
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Moves Qi and Resolves Stagnation
- Resolves the Six Stagnations (Liu Yu)
- Invigorates Blood and Dispels Stasis
- Clears Heat and Drains Fire
- Dries Dampness and strengthens the Spleen
- Promotes Digestion and Resolves Food Stagnation
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Liver Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Chest distension
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia, Depression...
Phlegm
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Stifling sensation in the chest, Head fog, Dizziness
Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Directs Rebellious Qi Downward and Stops Vomiting
- Disperses clumping and eliminates focal distention
- Harmonizes Cold and Heat
- Opens with acrid and descends with bitter
- Tonifies the Middle and Augments Qi
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Dry tongue, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Stomach splashing sound, Chest distension...
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies the Middle and Augments Qi
- Raises sunken Yang
- Lifts Sunken Qi
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Clears Heat from deficiency (sweet-warm method)
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Stifling sensation in the chest...
Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Dries Dampness and Transforms Phlegm
- Moves Qi and Resolves Stagnation
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Regulates menstruation
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Stifling sensation in the chest...
Da Cheng Qi Tang
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Vigorously Purges Heat Accumulation
- Promotes Bowel Movement
- Moves Qi and Relieves Distension
- Softens Hardness and Moistens Dryness
- Clears interior Heat from the Yangming
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Heat in Yang brightness Organs
How it manifests:
Focal distention
Accompanying symptoms:
Severe constipation, Excessive gas and flatulence, Abdominal fullness, Abdominal pain worsened by pressure, Abdominal tightness, Pancreatitis...
Dan Shen Yin
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Invigorates Blood and Dispels Stasis
- Moves Qi
- Alleviates Pain
- Regulates Qi and Harmonizes the Middle Burner
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Chest fullness, Feeling of fullness in the chest
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Invigorates Blood and Dispels Stasis
- Moves Qi and Alleviates Pain
- Disperses Accumulations and Dissipates Nodules
- Soothes the Liver and Regulates Qi
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Chest fullness, Feeling of fullness in the chest
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Gui Ling Gan Lu Yin
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Summer-Heat
- Clears Heat
- Promotes Urination and Drains Dampness
- Transforms Qi and facilitates the resolution of Dampness
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Warms Yang and Transforms Qi
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Summer Heat with Dampness
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, Tight feeling in chest and stomach...
Guo Qi Yin
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Blood
- Invigorates Blood and Dispels Stasis
- Moves Qi
- Regulates menstruation
- Warms the Channels and Disperses Cold
- Promotes Menstruation
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Chest fullness, Feeling of fullness in the chest
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Aromatically Transforms Dampness
- Disperses Wind-Cold from the Exterior
- Regulates Qi and Harmonizes the Middle Burner
- Directs Rebellious Qi Downward and Stops Vomiting
- Strengthens the Spleen and Stops Diarrhea
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Summer Heat with Dampness
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, Tight feeling in chest and stomach...
Liu Jun Zi Tang
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Harmonizes the Stomach
- Dries Dampness
- Resolves Phlegm
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Dampness in the Middle-Burner
How it manifests:
Focal distention
Accompanying symptoms:
Nausea, Vomit, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Profuse white sputum, Anorexia, Peptic ulcer...
Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Lung Heat
- Calms Wheezing
- Disperses Wind-Heat
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat...
Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Lung Heat
- Cools the Blood
- Resolves Toxicity
- Clears Damp-Heat
- Descends Lung Qi and Stops Cough
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat...
Qi Li San
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Invigorates Blood and Dispels Stasis
- Reduces Swelling
- Alleviates Pain
- Stops Bleeding
- Moves Qi
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Chest fullness, Feeling of fullness in the chest
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Qing Xin Li Ge Tang
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Heat and Resolves Toxicity
- Benefits the Throat and Reduces Swelling
- Purges Heat and Unblocks the Bowels
- Disperses Wind-Heat
- Cools the diaphragm and clears the Heart
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat...
Ren Shen Bai Du San
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Disperses Wind-Cold
- Drains Dampness
- Tonifies Qi
- Releases the Exterior
- Alleviates Pain
- Resolves Phlegm
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Wind-Cold-Damp invading with Qi Deficiency
How it manifests:
Focal distention, Feeling of fullness in the chest
Accompanying symptoms:
High fever, Fever without perspiration, Headaches, Neck pain, Stiff neck, Painful extremities...
Ren Shen Ge Jie San
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Lung and Kidney Qi
- Stops Cough and Calms Wheezing
- Clears Lung Heat
- Resolves Phlegm
- Strengthens the Spleen and Resolves Dampness
- Aids the Kidneys in Grasping Qi
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat...
Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Invigorates Blood and Dispels Stasis
- Warms the Channels and Disperses Cold
- Moves Qi and Alleviates Pain
- Regulates menstruation
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Chest fullness, Feeling of fullness in the chest
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Shen Qi Si Wu Tang
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi and Generates Blood
- Invigorates Blood and Dispels Stasis
- Regulates menstruation
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Supplements the source of Blood production
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Pericardium Blood Deficiency
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest stiffness, Chest pain, Palpitations, Insomnia, Poor memory
Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Invigorates Blood and Dispels Stasis
- Unblocks the Channels and Alleviates Pain
- Moves Qi and Alleviates Pain
- Dispels Wind-Dampness
- Unblocks the Channels and Collaterals
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Chest fullness, Feeling of fullness in the chest
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Shi Xiao San
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Invigorates Blood and Dispels Stasis
- Dissipates Nodules and Softens Hardness
- Alleviates Pain
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Chest fullness, Feeling of fullness in the chest
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Tao Hong Si Wu Tang
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Invigorates Blood and Dispels Stasis
- Nourishes Blood
- Regulates menstruation
- Moves Qi in the Blood level
- Unblocks the Channels and Alleviates Pain
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Chest fullness, Feeling of fullness in the chest
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Wei Jing Tang
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Clears Lung Heat
- Resolves Phlegm
- Invigorates Blood and Dispels Stasis
- Expels Pus
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Chest fullness, Feeling of fullness in the chest
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Wu Ling San
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Promotes Urination and Drains Dampness
- Warms Yang and Transforms Qi
- Releases the Exterior
- Supplements Earth to Control Water
- Resolves Phlegm-Fluid Retention
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Fluids
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Feeling of heaviness, Shortness of breath, Hypochondrial pain that is worse on coughing and breathing, Coughing...
Wu Yao Tang
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Moves Qi
- Regulates menstruation
- Alleviates Pain
- Soothes the Liver and Regulates Qi
- Nourishes and invigorates Blood
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Qi And Blood Stagnation
How it manifests:
Chest fullness, Feeling of fullness in the chest
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest distension, Chest pain, Stabbing fixed pain, Dark face, Purple lips, Purple nails...
Xiang Ru San
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Releases the Exterior and Resolves Summerheat
- Disperses Cold
- Transforms Dampness
- Harmonizes the Middle Burner
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Summer Heat with Dampness
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Fever, Aversion to cold, Excessive sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, Tight feeling in chest and stomach...
Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Tonifies Qi and Strengthens the Spleen
- Harmonizes the Stomach
- Moves Qi and Resolves Stagnation
- Dries Dampness and Transforms Phlegm
- Warms the Middle Burner
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Stifling sensation in the chest...
Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Dries Dampness and Transforms Phlegm
- Nourishes and invigorates Blood
- Regulates Qi and Harmonizes the Middle Burner
- Promotes Menstruation
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Stifling sensation in the chest...
Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Descends Qi
- Resolves Phlegm
- Tonifies Qi
- Harmonizes the Stomach
- Eliminates Focal Distention
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine
How it manifests:
Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Abdominal distention, Vomiting clear liquid, Dry tongue, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Stomach splashing sound, Chest distension...
Xuan Fu Hua Tang
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Invigorates Blood and Dispels Stasis
- Warms and Unblocks Yang
- Opens the Chest and Disperses Stagnation
- Descends Qi and Resolves Binding
- Soothes the Liver and Regulates Qi
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Qi Stagnation in Chest
How it manifests:
Chest distention, Chest fullness
Accompanying symptoms:
Chest stiffness, Chest distension, Chest pain, Chest pain improve with massage, Desire for hot beverages and foods, Bleeding during pregnancy
Yi Guan Jian
Addresses these chest distension patterns:
Main Actions
- Nourishes Liver and Kidney Yin
- Soothes the Liver and Regulates Qi
- Nourishes Blood and Softens the Liver
- Generates Fluids
- Courses the Liver and Drains Heat
Addresses These Chest Distension Pattern Variations
Liver Qi Stagnation
How it manifests:
Chest distension
Accompanying symptoms:
Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia, Depression...
Bai Zi Yang Xin Wan
Traditional formula for chest distension
Main Actions
- Nourishes Heart Blood
- Tonifies Heart Qi
- Nourishes Yin
- Calms the Spirit
- Moistens the Intestines and Unblocks the Bowels
Xiang Sha Yang Wei Wan
Traditional formula for chest distension
Main Actions
- Warms the Middle Burner
- Harmonizes the Stomach
- Drains Dampness
- Moves Qi
- Strengthens the Spleen
- Eliminates Focal Distention and Fullness