Phlegm-Heat is a pattern that typically occurs when Dampness or Body Fluids combine with pathogenic Heat. In this case the Heat either invades from the Exterior or is generated by emotional disorders, long-term illness, poor diet or other internal disharmonies.

The Heart is associated with Fire, while the Lungs are the Organ that is most sensitive to temperature (both hot or cold). Thus, these are the two Organs most closely affected by Phlegm-Heat, as can be seen in the symptoms. Phlegm-Heat in the Stomach can affect the Mind and cause severe mental symptoms such as manic depression.

Common symptoms include the coughing of thick, yellow, viscous sputum that is difficult to expectorate, a red and flushed face, a yellow tongue coating and a rapid pulse. There may also be dizziness, palpitations, impaired consciousness, epilepsy, or spasms.

Because Heat is the cause of the Phlegm in this pattern, it too must be addressed to resolve the Phlegm.