Petechiae in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different petechiae patterns according to TCM theory
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Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Petechiae are small, round spots that appear on the skin due to bleeding under the surface. These spots, which can range from red to purple in color, are often a result of physical trauma or certain medical conditions affecting blood clotting or capillary inflammation. Typically, they are not raised and do not lose color when you press on them. While they may appear alarming, petechiae are often a symptom rather than a disease itself, signaling an underlying condition that may require medical attention.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), petechiae are seen through a different lens compared to Western medicine. TCM interprets them as manifestations of internal disharmonies or imbalances. Unlike the more focused physiological explanations of Western medicine, TCM considers a variety of patterns of disharmony that could lead to petechiae. It emphasizes the importance of identifying the correct underlying pattern before treatment, as each pattern requires a unique approach to restore balance and health.
TCM Patterns for Petechiae
Each pattern represents a distinct underlying imbalance that can cause petechiae
Liver Blood Stagnation
Diagnostic signs
Wiry (Xian)
Purple tongue or purple spots on sides.
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Herbal Formulas for Petechiae
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address petechiae