Alternating Fever And Chillsaccording to TCM

What is alternating fever and chills?

Alternating fever and chills, also known as cyclic fever or fluctuating body temperature, is characterized by episodes of fever followed by chills. This pattern can be indicative of various underlying conditions, ranging from infections to autoimmune disorders. During an episode, a person might feel intensely hot and sweaty, followed by a phase of feeling cold and shivery. This can be particularly distressing and may significantly impact daily activities.

How does TCM view alternating fever and chills?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), alternating fever and chills are seen as manifestations of underlying imbalances within the body. TCM attributes these symptoms to disharmony between Yin and Yang, as well as disruptions in Qi and Blood. Identifying the specific pattern of disharmony is crucial for effective treatment, as TCM aims to restore balance and harmony within the body through tailored therapies.

Root Causes of Alternating Fever And Chills in TCM

In TCM, alternating fever and chills can arise from various patterns of disharmony. One such pattern is Phlegm-Fluids in the limbs, where the body's Qi is obstructed by accumulated Phlegm and Dampness. This condition is marked by symptoms such as alternating fever and chills, a feeling of heaviness, muscle pain, and profuse white sputum.

Another common cause is Liver Qi Stagnation, which is characterized by emotional stress leading to hypochondriac distention, chest discomfort, and mood swings. This stagnation of Qi disrupts the body’s natural rhythms, resulting in fluctuating body temperatures.

Explore below more details about what might cause Alternating fever and chills according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Liver
  • Spleen
Detailed description of the cause

Phlegm

In TCM "Phlegm" as a pattern of disharmony is a complex concept that extends beyond the physical manifestation of mucus. It represents a pathological factor that can disrupt the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood, leading to various health issues. Phlegm in TCM is seen as a sticky, turbid substance arising from the body's inability to metabolize fluids properly, often due to a dysfunction of the spleen. It's not only associated with respiratory problems like cough and congestion but also with systemic issues. Symptoms can include a feeling of heaviness, mental cloudiness, dizziness, and in some cases, the formation of lumps or masses. Phlegm can even be "invisible," contributing to emotional disturbances like depression or stress. ... see more

Phlegm Patterns That Can Lead to Alternating Fever And Chills

Common Symptoms: Feeling Of Heaviness Muscle Pain Lack Of Sweating Absence Of Thirst Profuse White Sputum Body Pain Upper Respiratory Tract Infections Viral Conjunctivitis

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Phlegm-Fluids in the limbs Alternating fever and chills, Feeling of heaviness, Muscle pain, Lack of sweating, Absence of thirst, Profuse white sputum, Swollen limbs, Urinary dysfunction... see more Da Qing Long Tang
Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm Alternating fever and chills, Coughing, Asthma, Edema, Stifling sensation in the chest, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum... see more Xiao Qing Long Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Qi Stagnation

Qi Stagnation in TCM is like having a traffic jam in your body's energy system. Qi, the vital life force that flows through your body, is supposed to move smoothly to maintain health and balance. But with Qi Stagnation, this flow gets blocked or slowed down, like cars stuck on a highway. This can lead to symptoms like feeling stressed, emotional mood swings, and physical discomfort, often described as a feeling of fullness or tightness, especially in the chest or abdomen. It's as though the body's internal energy circulation is disrupted, causing various issues. TCM sees this as an energy flow problem, different from modern medicine's focus on specific physiological processes.... see more

Qi Stagnation Patterns That Can Lead to Alternating Fever And Chills

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation Alternating fever and chills, Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Irregular periods, Globus sensation, Pre menstrual breast distension, Pre menstrual tension, Anxiety, Anger... see more Chai Hu Shu Gan San
Detailed description of the cause

Blood Stasis

Blood Stasis in TCM is a concept where the blood flow in the body is not as smooth or efficient as it should be. Imagine a river that's supposed to flow freely, but instead, it's getting blocked or moving too slowly in some parts. This can lead to various health issues, like pain that feels sharp or stabbing, dark bruises, and a complexion that looks purplish. TCM believes that good health relies on the smooth and vibrant flow of Qi and blood throughout the body, so when blood gets stuck, it's like a traffic jam in your body, leading to discomfort or health problems.... see more

Blood Stasis Patterns That Can Lead to Alternating Fever And Chills

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Blood Stagnation with Heat Alternating fever and chills, Lower abdominal distension and pain that increases with pressure, Guarding of the abdominal musculature, Groin pain, Appendicitis, Pelvic inflammatory disease, Iliac abscess, Subcutaneous abscess, Renal abscess, Liver abscess, Lung abscess... see more Da Huang Mu Dan Pi Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Blood Deficiency

Blood Deficiency in TCM is like when your body's tank runs low on the vital energy that blood provides. It's not exactly the same as anemia in modern medicine, which is about having too few red blood cells. Instead, Blood Deficiency in TCM is about your body not having enough of the life-giving qualities that blood brings, like nourishment and moisture. This can make you feel tired, look pale, and even feel dizzy or have blurry vision. It's like a garden not getting enough water to stay lush and vibrant. TCM sees this as an imbalance where the body isn't being nourished as it should be, impacting overall health and well-being.... see more

Blood Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Alternating Fever And Chills

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Blood Deficiency with disharmony of Liver and Spleen Alternating fever and chills, Chest distension, Chest pain, Anemia, Dizziness, Headaches, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Lack of appetite, Irregular periods, Leukorrhea... see more Xiao Yao San
Detailed description of the cause

Heat

In TCM "Heat" signifies an excess of Yang energy, leading to an imbalance where heat predominates over the body's cool Yin aspects. This condition is metaphorically akin to an internal over-heating. Symptoms indicative of Heat can include feelings of warmth, fever, sweating, irritability, red face, thirst with a preference for cold drinks, and a rapid pulse. The tongue may appear red with a yellow coating. Unlike the common interpretation of heat in terms of temperature, in TCM, it represents a state of hyperactivity or inflammation in the body.... see more

Heat Patterns That Can Lead to Alternating Fever And Chills

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Blood Stagnation with Heat Alternating fever and chills, Lower abdominal distension and pain that increases with pressure, Guarding of the abdominal musculature, Groin pain, Appendicitis, Pelvic inflammatory disease, Iliac abscess, Subcutaneous abscess, Renal abscess, Liver abscess, Lung abscess... see more Da Huang Mu Dan Pi Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Liver

In TCM the Liver is viewed as the organ responsible for the smooth flow of Qi, Blood, and emotions throughout the body. It plays a key role in regulating mood, storing blood, supporting digestion, and ensuring the health of tendons and eyes. When the Liver malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues such as irritability, mood swings, menstrual irregularities, eye problems, and muscular stiffness or pain. A malfunctioning Liver in TCM reflects not only physical disturbances but also emotional and mental disharmony, emphasizing the holistic approach of TCM in addressing health and wellness.... see more

Liver Patterns That Can Lead to Alternating Fever And Chills

Common Symptoms: Chest Distension Irregular Periods Lack Of Appetite Hepatitis Chronic Gastritis Peptic Ulcer Breast Engorgement Headaches

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation Alternating fever and chills, Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Irregular periods, Globus sensation, Pre menstrual breast distension, Pre menstrual tension, Anxiety, Anger... see more Chai Hu Shu Gan San
Blood Deficiency with disharmony of Liver and Spleen Alternating fever and chills, Chest distension, Chest pain, Anemia, Dizziness, Headaches, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Lack of appetite, Irregular periods, Leukorrhea... see more Xiao Yao San
Detailed description of the cause

Spleen

In TCM the Spleen plays a vital role in digestion and transformation, converting food into energy and nutrients, and overseeing the distribution of Qi and Blood. It's also crucial in maintaining the health of muscles and limbs and ensuring the blood remains within the vessels. When the Spleen malfunctions in TCM, it can lead to a variety of issues such as digestive disorders, fatigue, weak muscles, bloating, and a feeling of heaviness. It can also cause a pale complexion, poor appetite, and a tendency to bruise easily. Emotionally, a Spleen imbalance is often associated with excessive worry or overthinking, reflecting its role in the interplay between physical and mental health.... see more

Spleen Patterns That Can Lead to Alternating Fever And Chills

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Blood Deficiency with disharmony of Liver and Spleen Alternating fever and chills, Chest distension, Chest pain, Anemia, Dizziness, Headaches, Dry mouth, Dry throat, Lack of appetite, Irregular periods, Leukorrhea... see more Xiao Yao San

TCM Herbal Formulas for Alternating Fever And Chills

TCM offers various herbal formulas to address the underlying patterns causing alternating fever and chills. For Phlegm-Fluids in the limbs, Da Qing Long Tang is often recommended. This formula includes Ephedra (Ma Huang) and is designed to clear Wind-Cold and relieve symptoms. For Liver Qi Stagnation, Chai Hu Shu Gan San is commonly used, featuring Bupleurum Roots (Chai Hu) to promote Qi movement and restore balance.

In cases where Blood Stagnation with Heat is the underlying cause, Da Huang Mu Dan Pi Tang is utilized to clear internal abscesses and resolve stasis. Meanwhile, Xiao Yao San is recommended for Blood Deficiency with disharmony of Liver and Spleen, helping to harmonize the organs and alleviate symptoms. Each formula is carefully chosen based on the patient's specific pattern to ensure effective treatment.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address alternating fever and chills, organized by cause and by formula type.

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas that clear wind-Cold
  • Formulas that promote qi movement
  • Formulas that clear internal abscesses and sores
  • Formulas that harmonize lesser yang-warp disorders
  • Formulas that harmonize liver-Spleen

All Formulas Recommended for Alternating Fever And Chills Caused by Phlegm

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Da Qing Long Tang Phlegm-Fluids in the limbs
Xiao Qing Long Tang Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm

All "formulas that clear wind-Cold" recommended for alternating fever and chills

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Da Qing Long Tang Phlegm-Fluids in the limbs
Xiao Qing Long Tang Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm

Acupoints for Alternating Fever And Chills

Acupuncture is a key component of TCM used to treat alternating fever and chills by restoring the flow of Qi and Blood. In the Stomach Channel, points like Daying (ST-5) and Yingchuang (ST-16) are effective in expelling Wind and regulating Qi. Daying is located on the lateral mandible and helps in expelling Wind, while Yingchuang, located in the third intercostal space, regulates Qi and benefits the chest.

In the Gall Bladder Channel, points such as Fubai (GB-10) and Muchuang (GB-16) are used to remove obstructions and clear Heat. Fubai, located posterior to the mastoid process, clears Heat in the head and neck, while Muchuang, located 1.5 cun posterior to the anterior hairline, benefits the eyes and expels Wind. Additionally, points in the Bladder Channel like Shangliao (BL-31) and in the Governing Vessel like Taodao (DU-13) play crucial roles in regulating the Lower Burner, resolving Dampness, and clearing Heat to restore balance and alleviate symptoms.

Explore below some acupoints used to address alternating fever and chills, organized by meridian.

  • By Meridian
  • Stomach Channel
  • Gall Bladder Channel
  • Bladder Channel
  • Governing Vessel
Daying ST-5

Daying ST-5

On the lateral mandible, on the anterior border of masseter muscle, in the groove-like depression appearing when the cheek is bulged.

Yingchuang ST-16

Yingchuang ST-16

In the 3nd intercostal space, on the mammillary line, 4 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Fubai GB-10

Fubai GB-10

Posterior and superior to the mastoid process, at the junction of the upper third and the two lower thirds of the curved line connecting Tianchong GB-9 and Wangu GB-12.

Muchuang GB-16

Muchuang GB-16

1 cun posterior to the Toulingqi GB-15 or 1.5 cun posterior to the anterior hairline, on the pupil line which is 2.25 cun lateral to the midline.

Shangliao BL-31

Shangliao BL-31

In the 1st posterior sacral foramen, about midway between the posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS) and the midline.

Taodao DU-13

Taodao DU-13

On the back midline, in the depression below the spinous process of the 1st thoracic vertebra (T1).