Urinary Retention in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different urinary retention patterns according to TCM theory
Educational content • Consult qualified practitioners for medical advice
Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Urinary retention is a condition characterized by the inability to empty the bladder completely. It can manifest as difficulty initiating urination, a weak urinary stream, or a sense that the bladder is not fully empty. Acute urinary retention is a sudden and painful inability to urinate, often requiring immediate medical attention.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, a 'pattern' refers to a complex of symptoms and signs reflecting an imbalance or blockage in the body's natural flow of Qi and Blood. Determining the specific pattern is pivotal as it guides the personalized treatment plan.
For urinary retention, identifying whether the cause is an Excess pattern like Damp-Heat causing obstruction, or a Deficiency pattern like Yin Collapse is essential. Proper pattern differentiation ensures that the treatment will harmonize and rebalance the body's energies, addressing both the symptoms and their underlying cause.
TCM Patterns for Urinary Retention
Each pattern represents a distinct underlying imbalance that can cause urinary retention
Collapse of Yin
Diagnostic signs
Rapid (Shu), Fine (Xi)
Dark-Red and Dry tongue without coating
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Damp-Heat in the Lower Burner
Diagnostic signs
Rapid (Shu), Slippery (Hua)
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Diagnostic signs
Rapid (Shu), Slippery (Hua)
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Diagnostic signs
Rapid (Shu), Floating (Fu)
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Herbal Formulas for Urinary Retention
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address urinary retention