Severe Upper Abdominal Painaccording to TCM

Root Causes of Severe Upper Abdominal Pain in TCM

Explore below more details about what might cause Severe upper abdominal pain according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Cold
  • Stomach
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 Severe Upper Abdominal Pain

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Cold invading the Stomach Severe epigastric pain, Severe upper abdominal pain, Chills, Cold extremities, Desire for hot beverages and foods, Vomiting clear liquid, Nausea, Deterioration after cold beverages... see more Liang Fu Wan | Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San | Wu Zhu Yu Tang
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 Severe Upper Abdominal Pain

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Cold invading the Stomach Severe epigastric pain, Severe upper abdominal pain, Chills, Cold extremities, Desire for hot beverages and foods, Vomiting clear liquid, Nausea, Deterioration after cold beverages... see more Liang Fu Wan | Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San | Wu Zhu Yu Tang

TCM Herbal Formulas for Severe Upper Abdominal Pain

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address severe upper abdominal pain, organized by cause and by formula type.

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Cold
  • Formulas that promote qi movement
  • Formulas that transform dampness and harmonize stomach
  • Formulas that warm the middle and dispel cold

All Formulas Recommended for Severe Upper Abdominal Pain Caused by Cold

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Liang Fu Wan Cold invading the Stomach
Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San Cold invading the Stomach
Wu Zhu Yu Tang Cold invading the Stomach

Acupoints for Severe Upper Abdominal Pain

See more details below about Taiyi ST-23, an acupoint used to address severe upper abdominal pain.

  • By Meridian
  • Stomach Channel
Taiyi ST-23

Taiyi ST-23

2 cun above the umbilicus, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline.