Chronic Hematocheziaaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Stool and Bowel Irregularities
Parent symptom: Hematochezia
What is Chronic Hematochezia?
Chronic hematochezia involves the persistent presence of blood in the feces, indicating an ongoing issue within the gastrointestinal tract. Unlike acute instances of bloody stools, which may result from temporary infections or conditions, chronic hematochezia suggests a prolonged underlying health issue.
This condition requires careful evaluation to determine its cause, as it can stem from various sources, including but not limited to, inflammatory bowel disease, colorectal cancer, or hemorrhoids. The recognition of this symptom is crucial for diagnosing and addressing potentially serious health concerns.
How does TCM view Chronic Hematochezia?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) interprets chronic hematochezia through the lens of imbalance and disharmony within the body’s energetic systems. TCM posits that Blood in the stool is a manifestation of disharmony in the body’s Qi (vital energy), Blood, and organ systems, particularly the Spleen, Liver, and Large Intestine.
This perspective underscores the significance of identifying and correcting the underlying imbalances that lead to this condition. TCM emphasizes a holistic approach, focusing on restoring balance and enhancing the body's natural healing capacities.
Causes of Chronic Hematochezia According to TCM
In TCM, chronic hematochezia is often associated with Qi And Blood Stagnation, leading to the disruption of the intestine's function to hold blood. One cause can be Heat accumulation in the large intestine, which damages the blood vessels and results in bleeding.
Another common cause is Spleen Qi Deficiency, where the weakened Spleen fails to control the blood within the vessels, allowing it to seep into the stool. These conditions highlight the intricate balance required within the body to maintain health and the importance of addressing both the symptoms and the root cause in TCM.
TCM Herbs for Chronic Hematochezia
For the treatment of chronic hematochezia, TCM recommends herbs that stabilize and bind, such as Chinese Gall (Wu Bei Zi). This herb is known for its properties to cool the Blood, reduce inflammation, and promote healing within the digestive tract.
By targeting the Kidney, Large intestine, and Lung channels, Wu Bei Zi can help address the underlying deficiencies leading to blood in the stool. It is particularly beneficial for conditions marked by Lung Qi and Yin deficiencies, offering a natural approach to restoring the body's delicate internal balance.
- By Herb Category
- Herbs that stabilize and bind
Herbs that stabilize and bind
Chronic hematochezia can be treated by these herbs if it is caused by a leakage of bodily fluids or energies, helping to consolidate and preserve the body's essential substances.
One such herb is Chinese Gall (Wu Bei Zi), which is directly recommended for chronic hematochezia.