Transitory Ischemic Attacksaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Cerebrovascular Disorders
Parent symptom: Stroke
Did you mean? Cerebral Vascular Insufficiency
What are Transitory Ischemic Attacks?
Transitory ischemic attacks (TIAs), commonly referred to as mini-strokes, are brief episodes of neurological dysfunction resulting from a temporary disruption in the blood supply to parts of the brain, spinal cord, or retina. Unlike strokes, the symptoms of TIAs are temporary and usually resolve within 24 hours without causing permanent brain damage. However, TIAs are important warning signs of potential future strokes and thus require immediate medical evaluation to prevent more serious cerebrovascular events.
How does TCM view Transitory Ischemic Attacks?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches transitory ischemic attacks as indicators of underlying imbalances in the body's vital energies, particularly the flow of Qi and Blood. TCM theory suggests that TIAs result from obstructions or stagnations within the meridians that supply the brain. Identifying the specific disharmony—be it due to Blood Stasis, Qi Stagnation, or internal Wind—is crucial for effective treatment. TCM treatments aim to restore harmony and improve circulation, addressing both the symptoms and the root causes of TIAs.
Causes of Transitory Ischemic Attacks According to TCM
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), transitory ischemic attacks (TIAs) are commonly associated with disturbances in Liver energy, specifically Liver Yang Rising and Liver Wind due to extreme Heat. Liver Yang Rising refers to an abnormal increase in the active, warming energy of the Liver, which can lead to symptoms like sudden headaches, dizziness, and temporary vision disturbances—common in TIAs.
When this Yang energy becomes excessive, it can transform into Liver Wind, which agitates internally and disrupts the stability of the mind and body, manifesting as the acute neurological deficits seen in TIAs.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Transitory Ischemic Attacks
To address the underlying causes of TIAs related to Liver imbalances in TCM, specific formulas are employed to calm Liver Yang and subdue Internal Wind. Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin is a pivotal formula in this regard, featuring Gastrodia Rhizomes (Tian Ma) as a key herb. This formula is well-suited for cases involving Liver Yang Rising and Internal Wind due to extreme Heat.
By modulating these energies, Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin helps stabilize the erratic movements of Yang and Wind, thereby reducing the risk of TIAs and helping prevent the potential progression to more severe cerebrovascular events. This approach illustrates TCM’s emphasis on restoring balance and ensuring continuous flow of Qi and blood to prevent further incidents.
See more details below about Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin, a herbal formula used to address transitory ischemic attacks.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that pacify and extinguish internal wind
Formulas that pacify and extinguish Internal Wind
Transitory ischemic attacks can be treated by these formulas when it is due to internal wind, which is often associated with spasms, tremors, or dizziness.
One such formula is Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin, with gastrodia rhizome as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Transitory Ischemic Attacks
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address transitory ischemic attacks, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Herbs that pacify internal liver wind and stop tremors
Herbs that pacify Internal Liver Wind and stop Tremors
Transitory ischemic attacks can be treated by these herbs when caused by internal wind from Liver disharmony, often manifesting in symptoms like spasms or tremors.
One such herb is Gastrodia Rhizomes (Tian Ma), a key herb in some formulas recommended for transitory ischemic attacks, like Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that pacify Internal Liver Wind and stop Tremors" recommended for transitory ischemic attacks
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Gastrodia Rhizomes (Tian Ma) | Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin |
| Gambir Stems And Thorns (Gou Teng) | Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin |