Central Serous Chorioretinopathyaccording to TCM
Symptom families: Eye Disorders and Symptoms, Retinal Disorders
Did you mean? Retinal Inflammation
What is Central Serous Chorioretinopathy?
Central Serous Chorioretinopathy (CSC) is a condition affecting the retina, primarily the macula, which is responsible for central vision. It's characterized by the accumulation of fluid under the retina, leading to a detachment that distorts and blurs vision. CSC often manifests as a central blurry or dark area in the field of vision.
Common among middle-aged individuals, particularly men, it is associated with stress, corticosteroid use, and certain personality types. While the exact cause is unclear, it's believed to involve factors like increased stress hormones affecting retinal health.
How does TCM view Central Serous Chorioretinopathy?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Central Serous Chorioretinopathy is viewed through the lens of systemic imbalances and disharmonies, particularly concerning Liver and Kidney functions. TCM doesn’t isolate the retina but sees it as a part of the entire bodily system.
The health of the eyes is intrinsically connected to the Liver and the Kidney's energy. In TCM, addressing eye conditions like CSC involves restoring balance and harmony within the body, emphasizing the holistic interconnection between all organs and systems.
Causes of Central Serous Chorioretinopathy According to TCM
From the TCM perspective, CSC can be attributed to imbalances like Liver Yang Rising and Kidney Yin Deficiency, often involving elements of stress, emotional disturbances, and systemic weaknesses. These imbalances can manifest physically in the eyes, as the Liver is closely connected to eye health.
Additionally, a pattern of Phlegm-Fluids might also be considered, especially if there is an accumulation of fluids under the retina, akin to the CSC's characteristic symptom. In TCM, understanding these underlying patterns is crucial for effective treatment, focusing on the root causes rather than just the symptoms.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Central Serous Chorioretinopathy
For managing CSC, TCM practitioners may recommend formulas that nourish Yin and tonify the body. An example is Liu Wei Di Huang Wan, a formula containing Prepared Rehmannia, known for its properties to treat Liver Yang Rising and Kidney Yin Deficiency. Another formula, Qi Ju Di Huang Wan, also contains Prepared rehmannia and is used for similar patterns, particularly beneficial for eye health.
Additionally, formulas like Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang with Poria-Cocos Mushrooms are suggested for patterns involving Phlegm-Fluids, addressing the fluid accumulation under the retina. These formulas are selected based on individual diagnostic patterns and are part of a comprehensive treatment plan including diet, lifestyle changes, and acupuncture.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address central serous chorioretinopathy, organized by formula type.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
- Formulas that warm and transform water and dampness
Formulas that nourish Yin and tonify
Central serous chorioretinopathy can be treated by these formulas when it arises from a deficiency in Yin energy, needing nourishment and strengthening of the body's vital essence.
One such formula is Liu Wei Di Huang Wan, with prepared rehmannia as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that nourish yin and tonify" recommended for central serous chorioretinopathy
| Formula | Key herbs |
|---|---|
| Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Prepared Rehmannia (Shu Di huang) |
| Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Prepared Rehmannia (Shu Di huang) |
Formulas that warm and transform water and Dampness
Central serous chorioretinopathy can be treated by these formulas if it is due to cold-dampness obstructing the body's functions, requiring warming and damp-transforming actions.
One such formula is Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang, with poria-cocos mushroom as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Central Serous Chorioretinopathy
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address central serous chorioretinopathy, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Tonic herbs for blood deficiency
- Herbs that drain dampness
Tonic herbs for Blood Deficiency
Central serous chorioretinopathy can be treated by these herbs in cases of blood deficiency, working to nourish and replenish the body's blood supply.
One such herb is Prepared Rehmannia (Shu Di huang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for central serous chorioretinopathy, like Liu Wei Di Huang Wan.
Herbs that drain Dampness
Central serous chorioretinopathy can be treated by these herbs when caused by excessive dampness in the body, aiding in eliminating damp through diuretic action.
One such herb is Poria-Cocos Mushrooms (Fu Ling), a key herb in some formulas recommended for central serous chorioretinopathy, like Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang.