Breast Pus Dischargeaccording to TCM

What is Breast Pus Discharge?

Breast pus discharge often indicates an infection within the breast, typically resulting from a blocked milk duct or bacteria entering the breast tissue during breastfeeding. This condition, marked by a release of pus from the nipple, can cause discomfort and swelling. It is crucial for individuals experiencing such symptoms to seek medical attention, as it can be a sign of a breast abscess or other serious infections that require prompt treatment.

How does TCM view Breast Pus Discharge?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) interprets breast pus discharge as a sign of disharmony within the body’s energetic pathways. It is often seen as a consequence of Heat accumulation or Qi Stagnation affecting the breast tissue.

TCM posits that each symptom provides insight into the underlying imbalance and practitioners use this information to tailor a holistic treatment plan. Determining the precise pattern of disharmony is imperative for effective intervention in TCM.

Root Causes of Breast Pus Discharge in TCM

TCM links breast pus discharge primarily to two patterns of disharmony: Qi Stagnation and Heat. Liver Qi Stagnation may manifest physically with symptoms such as breast pus discharge and emotional signs like melancholy or mood swings.

On the other hand, Stomach Heat can lead to inflammation and pus discharge, often accompanied by oral or dental issues. Addressing these imbalances through TCM involves using specific herbal formulas that target the root causes to alleviate symptoms and restore equilibrium.

Explore below more details about what might cause Breast pus discharge according to TCM.

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 Breast Pus Discharge

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation	Breast pus discharge, Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Irregular periods, Globus sensation, Pre menstrual breast distension, Pre menstrual tension, Anxiety, Anger... see more	Gua Lou San

Heat

In TCM "Heat" signifies an excess of Yang energy, leading to an imbalance where heat predominates over the body's cool Yin aspects. This condition is metaphorically akin to an internal over-heating. Symptoms indicative of Heat can include feelings of warmth, fever, sweating, irritability, red face, thirst with a preference for cold drinks, and a rapid pulse. The tongue may appear red with a yellow coating. Unlike the common interpretation of heat in terms of temperature, in TCM, it represents a state of hyperactivity or inflammation in the body.... see more

Heat Patterns That Can Lead to Breast Pus Discharge

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat	Breast pus discharge, Toothache, Headaches, Stomatitis, Periodontitis, Glossitis, Trigeminal neuralgia, Diabetes, Viral myocarditis, Breast engorgement, Breast lumps... see more	Gua Lou San

Liver

In TCM the Liver is viewed as the organ responsible for the smooth flow of Qi, Blood, and emotions throughout the body. It plays a key role in regulating mood, storing blood, supporting digestion, and ensuring the health of tendons and eyes. When the Liver malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues such as irritability, mood swings, menstrual irregularities, eye problems, and muscular stiffness or pain. A malfunctioning Liver in TCM reflects not only physical disturbances but also emotional and mental disharmony, emphasizing the holistic approach of TCM in addressing health and wellness.... see more

Liver Patterns That Can Lead to Breast Pus Discharge

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation	Breast pus discharge, Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Irregular periods, Globus sensation, Pre menstrual breast distension, Pre menstrual tension, Anxiety, Anger... see more	Gua Lou San

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 Breast Pus Discharge

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat	Breast pus discharge, Toothache, Headaches, Stomatitis, Periodontitis, Glossitis, Trigeminal neuralgia, Diabetes, Viral myocarditis, Breast engorgement, Breast lumps... see more	Gua Lou San

TCM Herbal Formulas for Breast Pus Discharge

In treating breast pus discharge, TCM may utilize formulas like Gua Lou San, which cools and transforms phlegm, to counteract Heat and toxicity affecting the breast. For a breastfeeding specified pattern such as Blow Breast, indicative of mastitis or inflammation, Tuo Li Xiao Du San might be prescribed. This formula, strengthened with Milkvetch Roots, aims to clear internal abscesses while bolstering the body’s vital energy, demonstrating TCM’s nuanced approach to healing.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address breast pus discharge, organized by cause and by formula type.

Top Formula for Qi Stagnation:
Gua Lou San

Suitable for Qi Stagnation patterns that may cause breast pus discharge, such as Liver Qi Stagnation

Learn more

Top Formula for Heat:
Gua Lou San

Suitable for Heat patterns that may cause breast pus discharge, such as Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat

Learn more

TCM Herbs for Breast Pus Discharge

Explore below some TCM herbs used to address breast pus discharge, organized by herb category.