Epigastric Fullness And Pain Relieved By Vomitingaccording to TCM

What is Epigastric Fullness and Pain Relieved by Vomiting?

Epigastric fullness and pain relieved by vomiting is a symptom complex characterized by a discomforting sensation of pressure and pain in the upper abdomen that is mitigated upon vomiting. This condition encapsulates a specific set of gastrointestinal symptoms where relief comes paradoxically through the act of vomiting.

The symptom is a focal point for both diagnostic consideration and treatment planning, hinting at underlying issues that range from dietary habits to more complex gastrointestinal disorders. Synonyms such as abdominal pain relieved by vomiting and discomfort and fullness in the upper abdomen alleviated by vomiting highlight the localized nature of the discomfort and the relief brought by vomiting.

How does TCM view Epigastric Fullness and Pain Relieved by Vomiting?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches epigastric fullness and pain relieved by vomiting through a lens that considers the body as a network of energy systems. In TCM, this symptom is often seen as a sign of disharmony within the body’s Qi (vital energy) or an imbalance in the Stomach's ability to transform and transport food essence.

TCM delves into the root causes of symptoms by identifying patterns of disharmony, which allows for targeted treatment strategies. This perspective emphasizes the importance of not just alleviating symptoms but restoring balance and harmony to the body's systems.

Root Causes of Epigastric Fullness And Pain Relieved By Vomiting in TCM

Traditional Chinese Medicine identifies several patterns that could lead to epigastric fullness and pain relieved by vomiting, with Food Stagnation in the Stomach being a primary cause. This condition arises when undigested food accumulates in the Stomach, leading to blockages that disrupt the flow of Qi and cause discomfort. Symptoms associated with this pattern include nausea, vomiting of sour fluids, bad breath, acid reflux, and belching, alongside insomnia and alternating diarrhea and constipation.

Another pattern involves Qi Stagnation, where the smooth flow of energy through the Stomach is impeded, causing similar symptoms. Addressing these underlying patterns requires a nuanced understanding of the individual’s health, lifestyle, and emotional state.

Explore below more details about what might cause Epigastric fullness and pain relieved by vomiting according to TCM.

  • By Organ
  • Stomach
Detailed description of the cause

Stomach

In TCM the Stomach is regarded as the "sea of nourishment," pivotal for digesting food and transforming it into Qi and blood. It works closely with the Spleen to distribute these essential nutrients throughout the body. When the Stomach is out of balance or malfunctions in TCM, it often leads to digestive problems such as bloating, nausea, vomiting, poor appetite, or a feeling of fullness. There may also be issues like acid reflux or a sour taste in the mouth. Emotionally, an imbalanced Stomach can contribute to excessive worry and overthinking, reflecting the TCM belief that physical and emotional well-being are deeply interconnected.... see more

Stomach Patterns That Can Lead to Epigastric Fullness And Pain Relieved By Vomiting

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Food Stagnation in the Stomach Fullness and pain of the epigastrium which are relieved by vomiting, Epigastric fullness and pain relieved by vomiting, Nausea, Vomiting of sour fluids, Bad breath, Acid reflux, Belching, Insomnia, Alternating diarrhea and constipation, Lack of appetite, Abdominal pain due to overeating... see more Bao He Wan | Zhi Shi Dao Zhi Wan | Gua Di San

TCM Herbal Formulas for Epigastric Fullness And Pain Relieved By Vomiting

To treat epigastric fullness and pain relieved by vomiting, TCM practitioners may recommend specific formulas designed to address the underlying patterns of disharmony. For issues stemming from Food Stagnation in the Stomach, formulas such as Bao He Wan, which contains hawthorn berries to relieve Food Stagnation, and Zhi Shi Dao Zhi Wan, featuring immature bitter oranges to regulate Qi, are often used. These formulas work by facilitating the digestion and movement of accumulated food, restoring the stomach’s proper function, and alleviating the associated symptoms. Through these targeted treatments, TCM aims to not only relieve discomfort but also promote the body's natural healing processes and prevent recurrence of symptoms.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address epigastric fullness and pain relieved by vomiting, organized by cause and by formula type.

  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas that reduce food accumulation and transform stagnation
  • Formulas that induce vomiting

All "formulas that reduce food accumulation and transform stagnation" recommended for epigastric fullness and pain relieved by vomiting

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Bao He Wan Food Stagnation in the Stomach
Zhi Shi Dao Zhi Wan Food Stagnation in the Stomach

TCM Herbs for Epigastric Fullness And Pain Relieved By Vomiting

Explore below some TCM herbs used to address epigastric fullness and pain relieved by vomiting, organized by herb category.

  • By Herb Category
  • Herbs that relieve food stagnation
  • Herbs that regulate qi
  • Purgative herbs that drain downward
  • Warm herbs that transform phlegm and stop cough