Coughing And Wheezing With Copious Sputumaccording to TCM

Symptom families: Respiratory Secretions, Cough Related Symptoms

Parent symptom: Copious Sputum

What is Coughing and Wheezing with Copious Sputum?

Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum is a respiratory condition characterized by the excessive production of mucus or phlegm in the airways, accompanied by a distinctive whistling sound during breathing. This symptom complex can indicate underlying issues such as infections, allergies, asthma, or chronic pulmonary diseases.

The presence of copious sputum suggests a productive cough, where the body attempts to clear the airways of mucus, while wheezing points to an obstruction or narrowing of the air passages, often due to inflammation or constriction.

How does TCM view Coughing and Wheezing with Copious Sputum?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) interprets coughing and wheezing with copious sputum as evidence of disharmony within the body's organ systems, particularly involving the Lungs and the pathways of Qi, or vital energy.

TCM identifies several patterns that can lead to such symptoms, focusing on the imbalances of Qi, Phlegm, and the environmental influences of Wind, Cold, and Dampness. Recognizing and addressing the specific pattern of disharmony is essential in TCM, aiming to restore balance and harmony to the body's Qi flow and organ function.

Root Causes of Coughing And Wheezing With Copious Sputum in TCM

TCM identifies Wind-Phlegm and Phlegm clogging the Lungs with Qi Stagnation as key patterns behind coughing and wheezing with copious sputum. Wind-Phlegm refers to the invasion of external pathogenic Wind that combines with Phlegm, leading to symptoms like noisy breathing and a feeling of oppression in the chest.

Phlegm clogging the Lungs with Qi Stagnation describes a condition where Phlegm accumulates in the lungs, obstructing the flow of Qi and causing symptoms such as focal distention of the chest and chronic respiratory issues. These patterns highlight the complexity of TCM diagnostics, focusing on the interplay between external pathogenic factors and internal imbalances.

Explore below more details about what might cause Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Lung
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 Coughing And Wheezing With Copious Sputum

Common Symptoms: Focal Distention Of The Chest Lack Of Appetite Dyspepsia Chronic Bronchitis Bronchial Asthma Emphysema Childhood Asthma Diaphragm Pain

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Wind-Phlegm Coughing of phlegm, Dizziness, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Aphasia, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Noisy breathing, Limb numbness... see more Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang
Phlegm clogging the Lungs with Qi Stagnation Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Focal distention of the chest, Lack of appetite, Dyspepsia, Chronic bronchitis, Bronchial asthma, Emphysema, Childhood asthma, Diaphragm pain... see more San Zi Yang Qin 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 Coughing And Wheezing With Copious Sputum

Common Symptoms: Lack Of Appetite Focal Distention Of The Chest Dyspepsia Chronic Bronchitis Bronchial Asthma Emphysema Childhood Asthma Diaphragm Pain

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Qi Stagnation Mild coughing with copious sputum, General fullness, Moving pain, Depression, Irritability, Mood swings, Sighing Yue Ju Wan
Phlegm clogging the Lungs with Qi Stagnation Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Focal distention of the chest, Lack of appetite, Dyspepsia, Chronic bronchitis, Bronchial asthma, Emphysema, Childhood asthma, Diaphragm pain... see more San Zi Yang Qin Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Wind

In TCM "Wind" is a concept that represents a pattern of disharmony, often characterized by its sudden and unpredictable nature, much like a gusty wind changing direction without warning. This pattern is associated with symptoms that come and go quickly or move around the body, such as itching, tremors, or even certain types of pain. Wind is considered to be a primary cause of illnesses that have these rapidly changing characteristics. In TCM, external Wind often refers to illnesses that start suddenly, like the common cold, believed to be caused by external pathogenic factors like climatic changes. On the other hand, internal Wind can be linked to internal imbalances and can manifest in conditions like dizziness or spasms. ... see more

Wind Patterns That Can Lead to Coughing And Wheezing With Copious Sputum

Common Symptoms: Headaches Aversion To Cold Fever Itchy Throat Shortness Of Breath Congested Nose Nasal Discharge Sneezing

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Wind-Cold invading the Lungs Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Aversion to cold, Fever, Itchy throat, Shortness of breath, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, White and watery sputum... see more Ma Huang Tang | Ge Gen Tang | Xin Yi San | Zhi Sou San
Wind-Phlegm Coughing of phlegm, Dizziness, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Aphasia, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Noisy breathing, Limb numbness... see more Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Yang Deficiency

Yang deficiency in TCM refers to a state where the body's Yang energy, which is responsible for warmth, activity, and function, is weakened or diminished. This pattern of disharmony often arises from chronic illness, aging, or inherent constitutional weakness. Symptoms of Yang deficiency are typically associated with cold and sluggishness, such as a feeling of coldness, cold extremities, pale complexion, low energy or fatigue, and a desire for warmth. Digestive issues like poor appetite, loose stools, and water retention can also be indicative of Yang deficiency.... see more

Yang Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Coughing And Wheezing With Copious Sputum

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Lung Yang Deficiency Coughing with copious clear thin sputum, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Cold extremities, Spontaneous sweat, Frequent colds or flu, Pale face, Generalized fatigue, Shortness of breath, Absence of thirst, Wheezing, Weak voice... see more Gan Cao Gan Jiang Tang | Si Jun Zi Tang | Sheng Mai San
Detailed description of the cause

Cold

In TCM "Cold" as a pattern of disharmony refers to a specific type of imbalance within the body's systems, often linked to a deficiency or weakness. It's not about feeling physically cold or having a common cold, but rather a metaphorical description of certain symptoms and underlying conditions. When a TCM practitioner says someone suffers from "Cold," it usually implies that the body's Yang energy, which is warm and active, is insufficient or overpowered by Yin energy, which is cool and passive. Symptoms of Cold in TCM can include a general feeling of coldness, cold limbs, pale complexion, low energy, slow metabolism, and a preference for warmth. ... see more

Cold Patterns That Can Lead to Coughing And Wheezing With Copious Sputum

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Wind-Cold invading the Lungs Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Aversion to cold, Fever, Itchy throat, Shortness of breath, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, White and watery sputum... see more Ma Huang Tang | Ge Gen Tang | Xin Yi San | Zhi Sou San
Detailed description of the cause

Lung

In TCM the Lungs are seen as the organ responsible for controlling Qi and respiration, as well as being a key part of the body's defensive system. They are thought to maintain the balance and flow of air and moisture, and are closely linked to the skin and hair. When the Lungs are imbalanced or malfunctioning in TCM, it can lead to respiratory issues like coughing or asthma, a weakened immune system, dry skin, and emotional disturbances such as sadness or grief. These symptoms are believed to arise from disruptions in the Lungs' ability to regulate Qi and protect the body, highlighting their central role in maintaining overall health and well-being.... see more

Lung Patterns That Can Lead to Coughing And Wheezing With Copious Sputum

Common Symptoms: Lack Of Appetite Shortness Of Breath Focal Distention Of The Chest Dyspepsia Chronic Bronchitis Bronchial Asthma Emphysema Childhood Asthma

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Wind-Cold invading the Lungs Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Aversion to cold, Fever, Itchy throat, Shortness of breath, Congested nose, Nasal discharge, Sneezing, Headaches, Body pain, White and watery sputum... see more Ma Huang Tang | Ge Gen Tang | Xin Yi San | Zhi Sou San
Lung Yang Deficiency Coughing with copious clear thin sputum, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Cold extremities, Spontaneous sweat, Frequent colds or flu, Pale face, Generalized fatigue, Shortness of breath, Absence of thirst, Wheezing, Weak voice... see more Gan Cao Gan Jiang Tang | Si Jun Zi Tang | Sheng Mai San
Phlegm clogging the Lungs with Qi Stagnation Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Focal distention of the chest, Lack of appetite, Dyspepsia, Chronic bronchitis, Bronchial asthma, Emphysema, Childhood asthma, Diaphragm pain... see more San Zi Yang Qin Tang

TCM Herbal Formulas for Coughing And Wheezing With Copious Sputum

To address coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, TCM recommends formulas like Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang and San Zi Yang Qin Tang. Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang is designed to transform Phlegm and extinguish Wind, targeting symptoms such as dizziness and limb numbness alongside respiratory issues.

San Zi Yang Qin Tang, recommended for Phlegm clogging the Lungs with Qi Stagnation, warms and transforms Phlegm-Cold, addressing chronic bronchitis and asthma. These formulas exemplify TCM's approach of treating the underlying patterns of disharmony rather than just the symptoms.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, organized by cause and by formula type.

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas that clear wind-Cold
  • Formulas that transform phlegm and extinguish wind
  • Formulas that tonify qi
  • Formulas that warm and transform phlegm-Cold
  • Formulas that dredge and disperse external wind
  • Formulas that warm interior cold
  • Formulas that promote qi movement

All Formulas Recommended for Coughing And Wheezing With Copious Sputum Caused by Phlegm

Formula Patterns Suitable For
San Zi Yang Qin Tang Phlegm clogging the Lungs with Qi Stagnation
Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang Wind-Phlegm

All Formulas Recommended for Coughing And Wheezing With Copious Sputum Caused by Qi Stagnation

Formula Patterns Suitable For
San Zi Yang Qin Tang Phlegm clogging the Lungs with Qi Stagnation
Yue Ju Wan Qi Stagnation

All Formulas Recommended for Coughing And Wheezing With Copious Sputum Caused by Wind

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Ma Huang Tang Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Ge Gen Tang Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Xin Yi San Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Zhi Sou San Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang Wind-Phlegm

All Formulas Recommended for Coughing And Wheezing With Copious Sputum Caused by Yang Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Gan Cao Gan Jiang Tang Lung Yang Deficiency
Si Jun Zi Tang Lung Yang Deficiency
Sheng Mai San Lung Yang Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Coughing And Wheezing With Copious Sputum Caused by Cold

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Ma Huang Tang Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Ge Gen Tang Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Xin Yi San Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Zhi Sou San Wind-Cold invading the Lungs

All "formulas that transform phlegm and extinguish wind" recommended for coughing and wheezing with copious sputum

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Zhi Sou San Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang Wind-Phlegm

All "formulas that clear wind-Cold" recommended for coughing and wheezing with copious sputum

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Ma Huang Tang Wind-Cold invading the Lungs
Ge Gen Tang Wind-Cold invading the Lungs

All "formulas that tonify qi" recommended for coughing and wheezing with copious sputum

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Si Jun Zi Tang Lung Yang Deficiency
Sheng Mai San Lung Yang Deficiency

Acupoints for Coughing And Wheezing With Copious Sputum

TCM also employs acupuncture to treat coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, targeting specific acupoints like Fubai GB-10 in the Gall Bladder Channel and Zhongfu LU-1 in the Lung Channel. Fubai GB-10 is used to clear Heat in the head and neck and subdue Rebellious Qi, while Zhongfu LU-1 promotes the descending of Lung Qi, resolves Phlegm, and disperses fullness from the chest.

These acupoints are part of a comprehensive strategy to restore the smooth flow of Qi and eliminate pathogenic factors, demonstrating TCM's holistic approach to respiratory health.

Explore below some acupoints used to address coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, organized by meridian.

  • By Meridian
  • Gall Bladder Channel
  • Pericardium Channel
  • Triple Burner Channel
  • Lung Channel
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.

Tianchi P-1

Tianchi P-1

1 cun lateral to the nipple, in the 4th intercostal space.

Tianjing TB-10

Tianjing TB-10

When the elbow is flexed, Tianjing TB-10 is in the depression about 1 cun superior to the olecranon.

Zhongfu LU-1

Zhongfu LU-1

On the lateral aspect of the chest, in the 1st intercostal space, 6 cun lateral to the midline, 1 cun inferior to Yunmen LU-2. Below the acromial extremity of the clavicle, slightly medial to the lower border of the coracoid process.