Stomach Prolapse in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different stomach prolapse patterns according to TCM theory
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Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Stomach prolapse, known in the medical community as gastroptosis, occurs when the Stomach descends lower than its normal position in the abdominal cavity. This condition may lead to various symptoms, including discomfort, fullness after eating a small amount of food, and sometimes, more severe digestive issues.
The terminology surrounding this condition includes gastric prolapse, gastric ptosis, and dropped stomach. While often considered from a physical standpoint in Western medicine, the perspective broadens significantly when viewed through the lens of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, stomach prolapse is seen not just as a physical displacement but as a manifestation of underlying disharmony within the body's energy system or Qi.
TCM interprets this condition as primarily a result of Qi Sinking or Collapse. This perspective allows for a holistic approach to treatment, focusing on restoring balance and strengthening the Qi to address the root cause of the prolapse, rather than just the symptoms.
TCM Patterns for Stomach Prolapse
Qi Sinking
Weakened lifting force causing downward bearing sensations, organ prolapse, and inability to hold things in their proper position
Causes: Stomach prolapse
Qi Deficiency
Insufficient vital energy causing fatigue, weakness, poor digestion, and reduced function of organs and protective systems
Causes: Intermittent fever that worsens upon exertion, Spontaneous sweating, Aversion to cold, Thirst for warm drinks, Unremitting belching, Hiccuping, Regurgitation, Nausea or vomiting, Hard epigastric focal distention, Dizziness, Unsteadiness, Blurred vision, Deafness, Tinnitus, Shortness of breath, Weak voice, Pale complexion, Poor appetite, Loose stools, Belching, Abdominal distension, Lower abdominal pain, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Abdominal pain, Feeling of fullness
Phlegm
Thick, sticky pathological fluid that obstructs body functions and can manifest anywhere in the body
Causes: Hypochondrial pain that is worse on coughing and breathing, Shortness of breath, HypochondriaI distension
Herbal Formulas for Stomach Prolapse
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address stomach prolapse