An Exterior pattern, by definition, is a Full pattern, because it is characterized by the invasion of an external Pernicious Influence, which then fight with the Body's Defensive Qi. The battle of the two elements gives rise to 'fever', like how our immune system reacts to bacteria and virus according to Western Medicine. Please be aware that ‘Fever’ (发热 /Fa Re) here does not necessarily indicate an actual fever, but rather the patients' objective feeling of the heat. Aversion to cold often accompanies the fever symptom.

When a person has a strong constitution, he or she is prone to have Full pattern. The Qi is relatively intact and it fights strongly against the external Evils, such as the Cold or Wind. The fight causes the severe body aches. The Qi constrains the skin pores, hence there is no sweat. The Pulse is Tight, while an Exterior-Empty pulse is rather Slow.