Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
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Diagnostic Signs
Red swollen tongue with a sticky yellow coating
Rapid (Shu), Slippery (Hua)
Key Characteristic Symptoms
Diagnostic Considerations
Key characteristic symptoms of this pattern are the barking cough with sticky yellow sputum and Rapid Slippery pulse.
Causes & Pathology
Common Causes
The normal function of ascending Spleen Qi and descending Stomach Qi can be greatly impaired due to irregular eating habit. It then gives rise to the formation of Phlegm, which then get stored in the Lungs.
In additional to that, overconsumption of hot or greasy foods can also cause Phlegm and Heat. Therefore, better avoid foods like fried meats, alcohol or any that are spicy or greasy.
According to TCM, tobacco is hot in nature and it gives rise to the formation of internal Heat. On the other hand, smoking also dries up Body Fluids and thus causes Phlegm.
In acute cases, external Wind Heat penetrates the Defensive Qi and attack the Lungs directly.
If the acute condition is not treated completely and lingers for a long time, the Wind Heat can reside in the Lungs and become internal Heat. It then become chronic.
Internal Heat can also be the result of Qi Stagnation, which happens due to emotional stress such as anger, frustration and resentment.
Pathological Mechanism
This pattern is similar to Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs, but with additional Heat features, such as feeling of heat, thirst and profuse sticky yellow or green sputum. The typical manifestations of Phlegm are the coughing, short of breath, Phlegm in the throat and chest oppression. The Phlegm can also obstruct the head and cause heaviness and dizziness.
There can be acute or chronic conditions. The acute cases are often caused by external Wind-Heat penetrating the Defense Qi and attacking the Lungs, which results in acute chest infection and fever.
If the acute conditions are not treated completely, then the external Wind-Heat lingers and settles down in the Lungs, and it can become chronic eventually. Prolonged Spleen Qi Deficiency can also cause chronic condition. It is because the impaired Spleen can not transform and transport Body Fluids properly and thus Dampness and Phlegm forms.
Treatment Approach
Treatment Principle
Resolve Phlegm, clear Heat, facilitate the descending of Lung Qi
Recommended Herbal Formulas
Diet & Lifestyle Recommendations
Avoid alcohol, red meat, tobacco, dairy or any foods that are spicy, greasy and fried.
Try cupping over the chest or upper back, nasal wash and breathing exercises. Other than those, enough bed resting is also a good idea.
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