Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) considers liver qi stagnation (gan yu qi zhi) to be an abnormal manifestation, which can present with various symptoms. Firstly, there may be abdominal distension and pain, along with an inability to control personal emotions. If not effectively managed, this can lead to rib pain, and there may also be noticeable menstrual irregularities, resulting in distinct skin blemishes. Liver qi stagnation is a common symptom recognized in modern medicine as well. TCM believes that if the liver cannot properly discharge its functions, many abnormal symptoms can arise. For instance, sudden mental stress or poor emotional states often exacerbate these effects, making it crucial to identify the condition promptly. So, what are the symptoms of liver qi stagnation?
1. Abdominal Distension and Pain
The inability of liver qi to flow smoothly can affect the spleen and stomach, leading to disharmony in these organs. Once abnormalities occur, it can trigger upper abdominal distension and pain. Additionally, due to the disordered flow of qi in the spleen and stomach, the normal secretion of bile may also be affected, resulting in various symptoms such as poor appetite, belching, and vomiting. Furthermore, some patients may experience symptoms like eructation, abdominal bloating, constipation, irregular bowel movements, and diarrhea.
2. Emotional Disturbance
Liver qi stagnation affects the ability to regulate emotions, leading to feelings of depression. Patients may exhibit a tendency to sigh frequently and become irritable, which can disrupt normal life. This emotional disturbance can further exacerbate liver qi stagnation, creating a vicious cycle.
3. Rib Pain
The liver meridian runs through the chest and ribs; thus, any abnormality in the liver’s discharge can affect the flow of qi and blood in the liver meridian, leading to noticeable rib pain. This pain is not fixed and tends to fluctuate with emotional states. The areas traversed by the liver meridian include the chest, ribs, throat, lower abdomen, and head, which may also present with abnormal sensations, including abdominal pain and throat discomfort.
4. Menstrual Irregularities
In fact, the presence of liver qi stagnation can lead many individuals to experience menstrual irregularities, causing women to become more prone to pent-up emotions and irritability. Common manifestations include breast tenderness, menstrual irregularities, and significant dizziness. Due to poor circulation of qi and blood, some women may also experience rough skin, dark complexion, and noticeable blemishes.
