Polyuriaaccording to TCM
*redirected from Abundant urination
Symptom family: Urine Volume & Frequency Abnormalities
Sub-symptom(s): Nocturia
Did you mean? Frequent Urination
What is Polyuria?
Polyuria is a condition characterized by the production of abnormally large volumes of dilute urine. The increase in urine output can significantly disrupt normal life, necessitating frequent trips to the bathroom, even during the night, a condition known as nocturia. This can be a transient symptom or indicate more chronic conditions such as diabetes or kidney issues.
How does TCM View Polyuria?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), polyuria is often interpreted as a disruption in the balance of Yin and Yang within the body, specifically related to the Kidney's function.
TCM does not just treat the symptoms but aims to identify the underlying pattern of disharmony causing them. By determining whether the root cause is a Deficiency or an Excess, a practitioner can address the imbalance through tailored herbal prescriptions and acupuncture.
Root Causes of Polyuria in TCM
TCM sees polyuria as a sign of underlying imbalances, often involving a Deficiency in the Kidney system. A pattern such as Kidney Qi not being firm may lead to symptoms like abundant urination and a feeling of cold, indicating a Yang Deficiency.
Conversely, an Excess of Yin can manifest as polyuria without thirst and a feeling of cold. Understanding these patterns is crucial in TCM to provide effective treatment and restore equilibrium.
Explore below more details about what might cause Polyuria according to TCM.
- By Syndrome
- By Organ
- Qi Deficiency
- Yang Deficiency
- Yin Excess
- View More Causes
Qi Deficiency
Qi Deficiency in TCM is like running low on battery power. Qi is the vital energy that powers every function in your body. When there's a Qi Deficiency, it means your body doesn't have enough of this essential energy. This can make you feel tired all the time, weak, or even cause shortness of breath. It's similar to how you feel when you haven't had enough sleep or nutritious food. Your body just doesn't have the energy it needs to perform at its best. Unlike modern medicine, which often focuses on specific physical causes for fatigue and weakness, TCM views Qi Deficiency as an overall energy depletion that affects your entire well-being, and it seeks to replenish and balance this vital energy.... see more
Qi Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Polyuria
Common Symptoms: Lower Back Pain Generalized Fatigue Chills Back Pain Frequent Urination Premature Ejaculation Dizziness Nocturia
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Kidney Qi not Firm | Abundant urination, Lower back pain, Lower back weakness, Polyuria, Weak urine stream, Enuresis, Nocturnal emission, Generalized fatigue, Chills, Cold extremities, White vaginal discharge, Bearing down sensation in abdomen, Recurrent miscarriage... see more | You Gui Wan | Jin Suo Gu Jing Wan | Fu Tu Dan | Qing E Wan | Tu Si Zi Wan |
| Kidney Qi Deficiency | Urination at night, Hearing loss, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Back pain, Frequent urination, Nocturia, Premature ejaculation, Excessive menstruation... see more | Qing E Wan |
| Spleen or Kidney Qi Deficiency | Frequent night urination, Early menstruation, Pale menstrual flow, Lower back pain, Dizziness, Chills, Nocturia, Thin menstrual blood, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Spontaneous sweat... see more | Gui Pi Tang | Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | He Che Da Zao Wan |
TCM Herbal Formulas for Polyuria
For polyuria linked to Qi Deficiency, formulas like You Gui Wan are used to warm and tonify Yang, addressing symptoms like abundant urination and a weak urine stream.
On the other hand, a Yin Excess pattern may be treated with diuretic formulas like Wu Ling San that promote urination and leach out Dampness, helping to balance the body's fluids. It is essential to have a customized treatment plan from a qualified TCM practitioner, as self-diagnosis and treatment can lead to complications.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address polyuria, organized by cause and by formula type.
- By Cause
- By Formula Type
- Qi Deficiency
- Yang Deficiency
- Yin Excess
- View More Causes
Top Formula for Qi Deficiency:
Qing E Wan
Suitable for Qi Deficiency patterns that may cause polyuria, such as Kidney Qi not Firm or Kidney Qi Deficiency
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Polyuria Caused by Qi Deficiency
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Qing E Wan | Kidney Qi not Firm, Kidney Qi Deficiency |
| You Gui Wan | Kidney Qi not Firm |
| Tu Si Zi Wan | Kidney Qi not Firm |
| Jin Suo Gu Jing Wan | Kidney Qi not Firm |
| Fu Tu Dan | Kidney Qi not Firm |
| Gui Pi Tang | Spleen or Kidney Qi Deficiency |
| Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Spleen or Kidney Qi Deficiency |
| He Che Da Zao Wan | Spleen or Kidney Qi Deficiency |
Acupoints for Polyuria
In TCM, acupressure or acupuncture may be utilized to address polyuria. Points like Dazhui DU-14 at the base of the neck are used to clear Wind-Heat, release the Exterior, and tonify Yang.
This holistic approach aims to reduce excessive urination by realigning the body’s energy flow and enhancing organ function, providing relief and promoting overall well-being.
Explore below some acupoints used to address polyuria, organized by meridian.
- By Meridian
- Governing Vessel
- Stomach Channel
- Bladder Channel
Dazhui DU-14
On the midline at the base of the neck, in the depression below the spinous process of the seventh cervical vertebra (C7).
