Chronic Laryngitis in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different chronic laryngitis patterns according to TCM theory
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Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Chronic laryngitis is an inflammation of the larynx (voice box) that persists for an extended period, typically longer than three weeks. This condition can lead to a hoarse voice, loss of voice, and sometimes throat pain or discomfort.
Chronic laryngitis can be caused by a variety of factors, including long-term exposure to irritants, vocal strain, infections, and underlying health conditions. Unlike acute laryngitis, which is often temporary and resolves with proper care, chronic laryngitis may require more comprehensive treatment to address both symptoms and underlying causes.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches chronic laryngitis not just as a localized inflammation but as a symptom of imbalance within the body's energetic system. According to TCM, the health of the larynx is closely related to the condition of the Lung and Kidney, as well as the balance of Qi (vital energy) and Yin (the body's cooling, nourishing element).
Chronic laryngitis, in TCM, is often seen as a manifestation of underlying disharmonies such as Qi Deficiency or Rebellions, Yin Deficiency, or an invasion of external pathogenic factors like Wind-Heat or Wind-Cold.
TCM Patterns for Chronic Laryngitis
Each pattern represents a distinct underlying imbalance that can cause chronic laryngitis
Qi Deficiency Fever
Diagnostic signs
Empty (Xu)
Recommended herbal formulas
Spleen and Stomach Qi Deficiency
Diagnostic signs
Weak (Ruo)
Recommended herbal formulas
Herbal Formulas for Chronic Laryngitis
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address chronic laryngitis