Spleen and Stomach Deficiency Cold Syndrome
01
Definition
Spleen and Stomach Deficiency Cold Syndrome (pí wèi xū hán zhèng) is a TCM syndrome characterized by the weakness of the spleen and stomach or irregular eating habits, leading to insufficient Spleen Yang. This results in internal cold formation, causing the stomach to lose warmth and nourishment, and the spleen to fail in its governing function. Symptoms include dull stomach pain, possible blood in stool, preference for warmth and gentle pressure, pale tongue with white coating, and weak or slow pulse. It is commonly seen in conditions such as stomach pain and blood in stool.
02
Etiology
The syndrome arises from a weak constitution of the spleen and stomach or irregular eating habits, leading to insufficient Spleen Yang, resulting in internal cold formation and loss of warmth and nourishment in the stomach, as well as failure of the spleen to govern.
03
Clinical Manifestations
Symptoms include abdominal distension, reduced appetite, cold pain in the epigastric area that prefers warmth and gentle pressure, fear of cold with cold limbs, loose stools, pale tongue with white and moist coating, and a deep, slow, and weak pulse.
04
Commonly Used Herbs
Ren Shen (Ginseng), Bai Zhu (White Atractylodes), Gan Jiang (Dried Ginger), Zhi Gan Cao (Honey-Fried Licorice).
05
Common Conditions
1. Stomach Pain
Clinical manifestations include dull stomach pain that is persistent, prefers warmth and gentle pressure, worsens when hungry, alleviates with food, and may be aggravated by fatigue or exposure to cold. Symptoms may include vomiting clear fluids, fatigue, poor appetite, cold hands and feet, loose stools, pale tongue with white coating, and weak or slow pulse.
Treatment should focus on warming the middle, strengthening the spleen, and harmonizing the stomach to relieve pain.
Recommended formula: Huang Qi Jian Zhong Tang (Astragalus Middle-Strengthening Decoction) with modifications.
2. Blood in Stool
Clinical manifestations include dark purple blood in the stool, possibly black, with dull abdominal pain, preference for warm drinks, pale complexion, fatigue, and loose stools. The tongue is pale, and the pulse is thin.
Treatment should focus on strengthening the spleen, warming the middle, nourishing blood, and stopping bleeding.
Recommended formula: Huang Tu Tang (Yellow Earth Decoction) with modifications.
06
Prevention and Care
1. Prevention should emphasize mental and dietary regulation. Patients should maintain regular lifestyle and eating habits, avoiding overeating and irregular meals.
2. For persistent stomach pain, a liquid or semi-liquid diet should be followed for a certain period, with small, frequent meals consisting of light and easily digestible foods.
3. Avoid coarse and high-fiber foods, and minimize consumption of strong tea, coffee, alcohol, and spicy foods. Chew food thoroughly and eat slowly.
E/N/D
Disclaimer: Content sourced from the Chinese Medicine Information Query Platform
Editor: Ban Xia
Reviewer: Chong Ge
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