Pattern Full

Wind-Cold-Damp

Fēng Hán Shī 风寒湿

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Diagnostic Signs

Pulse

Fine (Xi), Floating (Fu), Slowed-down (Huan)

Key Characteristic Symptoms

Diagnostic Considerations

stiffness and a lack of movement, dry stools, an absence of thirst, and no nausea or diarrhea.

Causes & Pathology

Common Causes

Cold and Damp environment

Pathological Mechanism

This pattern is characterized by Yang Deficiency with a predominance of Dampness, leading to specific symptoms and signs. This pattern is not primarily due to a disorder in the Spleen, despite its association with Spleen, as indicated by the absence of nausea or diarrhea. Instead, the root lies in a Deficiency of Yang in the Kidneys, which fails to provide the necessary warmth for transportation processes in the body.

This Yang Deficiency leads to an excess of Dampness within the Spleen, the Yin aspect of the Middle Burner. This excess Dampness hinders the movement of Body Fluids in the Stomach and Intestines, the yang aspect of the Middle Burner, resulting in dry stools and an absence of thirst. The symptomatology of this pattern is dominated by stiffness and lack of movement, rather than pain, reflecting the obstructive nature of Wind-Cold-Dampness.

The pulse characteristics in this pattern are also telling: it is floating, indicating that the pathogenic factors are predominantly affecting the exterior of the body; Fine, suggesting insufficient Yang to move physiological body fluids effectively; and Slowed-down, reflecting the accumulation of Dampness in the channels and collaterals. These symptoms and pulse characteristics together confirm the diagnosis of a Wind-Cold-Damp pattern due to Yang Deficiency with Dampness as the predominant factor.

Treatment Approach

Treatment Principle

Expel Wind-Cold-Damp, warm the Channels,

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Related TCM Concepts

Wind Cold evil Dampness