Dysentery in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different dysentery patterns according to TCM theory
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Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Dysentery is an inflammatory disorder of the intestine, particularly of the colon, that results in severe diarrhea containing blood and mucus in the feces. It is caused by a variety of infectious pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, parasitic worms, or protozoa. The condition is characterized by frequent bowel movements, abdominal pain, fever, and dehydration. Dysentery can be categorized into bacillary dysentery, caused by bacteria, and amebic dysentery, caused by protozoa. Prompt treatment is essential to prevent dehydration and more severe complications.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), dysentery is seen as a disruption of the body's harmony and balance, often caused by the invasion of external pathogenic factors or internal imbalances. TCM does not solely focus on the pathogen itself but also on the underlying conditions that allowed the disease to manifest, such as weakness in the body's Defensive Qi or imbalances in the Spleen and Stomach.
Identifying the specific pattern of disharmony is crucial in TCM, as it guides the treatment strategy to not only relieve symptoms but also address the root cause and restore the body's equilibrium.
TCM Patterns for Dysentery
Yang Deficiency
Causes: Chronic dysenteric disorder
Cold
Causes: Chronic dysenteric disorder
Herbal Formulas for Dysentery
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address dysentery