Damp-Heat in Stomach and Spleen
Damp-Heat in Stomach and Spleen
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Diagnostic Signs
Red tongue with sticky yellow tongue coating
Rapid (Shu), Soggy (Ru)
Causes & Pathology
Common Causes
The main original cause of Damp-Heat in Stomach and Spleen is an Exterior Pathogenic Factor (typically Wind-Heat) that has invaded the Interior and progressed to this pattern.
Pathological Mechanism
This is one of the five patterns of the Qi level, the second level of the Four Levels theory.
Here Damp-Heat causes sweating but, while it might give the impression it abates the fever, it comes back soon afterwards. The reason is because sweat comes from the space between the skin and muscles but the Dampness is located in the Interior.
Dampness causes most of the other symptoms. It obstructs the Middle Burner, which causes the feeling of oppression of the chest and epigastrium as well as the nausea. It also obstructs the muscles, which is what causes the feeling of heaviness.
Lastly Dampness impairs the Spleen’s ability to transform and transport, which is what causes the loose stools.
Treatment Approach
Treatment Principle
Clear Heat in Stomach and Spleen, resolve Dampness.
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