Cough Of Bloodaccording to TCM

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Symptom family: Respiratory Secretions

Did you mean? Bloody Sputum

What is cough of blood?

Cough of blood, also known as hemoptysis or spitting blood, refers to the presence of blood in the sputum that is expelled through coughing. This condition can be alarming and is often indicative of underlying respiratory or systemic issues. The blood can vary in color from bright red to rust-colored, depending on the source and duration of bleeding. Common causes include infections, chronic lung diseases, pulmonary embolism, or even malignancies. It is crucial to identify the root cause to ensure appropriate treatment and management.

How does TCM view cough of blood?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), cough of blood is seen as a symptom arising from various patterns of disharmony within the body. Unlike Western medicine, which focuses on identifying the specific disease causing the symptom, TCM emphasizes understanding the underlying imbalances. These imbalances can be due to factors such as Heat in the Blood, Wind, or Deficiency in the body's Yin or Blood. Identifying the correct pattern is essential for effective treatment, as each pattern requires a different therapeutic approach.

Root Causes of Cough Of Blood in TCM

One common TCM pattern associated with cough of blood is Heat in the Blood. This pattern is characterized by symptoms such as feeling of heat, red skin eruptions, frequent bleeding, and bloody sputum. Heat in the Blood can result from various factors, including prolonged exposure to heat or internal imbalances that cause blood to become overheated and move recklessly.

Another pattern is the invasion of external Wind Cold with Internal Heat, marked by symptoms like high fever, severe chills, lack of sweating, and flushed face. This pattern occurs when external cold pathogens invade the body and transform into internal heat, leading to blood being expelled through the lungs. Understanding these patterns helps in tailoring treatments that address the root causes of cough of blood in TCM.

Explore below more details about what might cause Cough of blood according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Liver
  • Lung
Detailed description of the cause

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 Cough Of Blood

Common Symptoms: Thirst Nosebleeds Irritability Flushed Face Vomiting Blood Dark Urine Dry Stools Bitter Taste In The Mouth

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Heat in the Blood Cough of blood, Feeling of heat, Red skin eruptions, Thirst, Frequent bleeding, Bloody sputum, Hematochezia, Hematuria, Vomiting blood, Nosebleeds, Excessive menstruation... see more Xi Jiao Di Huang Tang | Gu Jing Wan | Shi Hui San | Bai He Di Huang Tang | Hua Ban Tang | Qing Ying Tang | Qing Re Gu Jing Tang
Wind Cold with Internal Heat Coughing blood, High fever, Severe chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, General sensation of tightness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Dry nose, Thirst, Irritability, Insomnia, Cough of blood, Mottled skin... see more Shi Gao Tang
Liver Fire Blazing Haemoptysis, Irritability, Anger, Tinnitus, Deafness, Temporal headache, Dizziness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Thirst, Bitter taste in the mouth, Vivid dreaming, Constipation, Dry stools, Dark urine, Nosebleeds, Cough of blood, Vomiting blood... see more Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Dang Gui Long Hui Wan | Xie Qing Wan
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire Haemoptysis, Tremors, Irritability, Anger, Tinnitus, Deafness, Temporal headache, Dizziness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Thirst, Bitter taste in the mouth, Vivid dreaming, Constipation, Dry stools, Dark urine, Nosebleeds, Vomiting blood, Cough of blood... see more Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Zi Xue Dan | Feng Yin Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Wind

In TCM "Wind" is a concept that represents a pattern of disharmony, often characterized by its sudden and unpredictable nature, much like a gusty wind changing direction without warning. This pattern is associated with symptoms that come and go quickly or move around the body, such as itching, tremors, or even certain types of pain. Wind is considered to be a primary cause of illnesses that have these rapidly changing characteristics. In TCM, external Wind often refers to illnesses that start suddenly, like the common cold, believed to be caused by external pathogenic factors like climatic changes. On the other hand, internal Wind can be linked to internal imbalances and can manifest in conditions like dizziness or spasms. ... see more

Wind Patterns That Can Lead to Cough Of Blood

Common Symptoms: Flushed Face Eye Hyperemia Thirst Irritability Nosebleeds High Fever Severe Chills Lack Of Sweating

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Wind Cold with Internal Heat Coughing blood, High fever, Severe chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, General sensation of tightness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Dry nose, Thirst, Irritability, Insomnia, Cough of blood, Mottled skin... see more Shi Gao Tang
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire Haemoptysis, Tremors, Irritability, Anger, Tinnitus, Deafness, Temporal headache, Dizziness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Thirst, Bitter taste in the mouth, Vivid dreaming, Constipation, Dry stools, Dark urine, Nosebleeds, Vomiting blood, Cough of blood... see more Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Zi Xue Dan | Feng Yin Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Yin Deficiency

Yin deficiency in TCM is a pattern of disharmony characterized by a depletion of the body's Yin energy, which represents the cooling, moistening, and nurturing aspects of our physiology. This condition often arises from factors like chronic stress, overwork, insufficient rest, or prolonged illness. Symptoms of Yin deficiency can include a sensation of heat, especially in the afternoon or evening, night sweats, insomnia, a dry mouth or throat, and a red tongue with little coating. There might also be a general feeling of restlessness or irritability. Since Yin is essential for balancing the body's active and warm Yang energy, its deficiency leads to a relative excess of Yang, manifesting as heat or dryness symptoms.... see more

Yin Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Cough Of Blood

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Lung Yin Deficiency Blood spit, Hoarse voice, Itchy throat, Reluctance to speak, Thin chest Bai He Gu Jin Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Blood Deficiency

Blood Deficiency in TCM is like when your body's tank runs low on the vital energy that blood provides. It's not exactly the same as anemia in modern medicine, which is about having too few red blood cells. Instead, Blood Deficiency in TCM is about your body not having enough of the life-giving qualities that blood brings, like nourishment and moisture. This can make you feel tired, look pale, and even feel dizzy or have blurry vision. It's like a garden not getting enough water to stay lush and vibrant. TCM sees this as an imbalance where the body isn't being nourished as it should be, impacting overall health and well-being.... see more

Blood Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Cough Of Blood

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Loss of Blood Cough of blood, Nosebleeds, Uterine hemorrhage, Hematuria, Hematochezia, Vomiting blood, Dark menstrual clots, Excessive menstruation, Bloody sputum... see more Xi Jiao Di Huang Tang
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 Cough Of Blood

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Wind Cold with Internal Heat Coughing blood, High fever, Severe chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, General sensation of tightness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Dry nose, Thirst, Irritability, Insomnia, Cough of blood, Mottled skin... see more Shi Gao Tang
Detailed description of the cause

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 Cough Of Blood

Common Symptoms: Irritability Anger Tinnitus Deafness Temporal Headache Dizziness Flushed Face Eye Hyperemia

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Fire Blazing Haemoptysis, Irritability, Anger, Tinnitus, Deafness, Temporal headache, Dizziness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Thirst, Bitter taste in the mouth, Vivid dreaming, Constipation, Dry stools, Dark urine, Nosebleeds, Cough of blood, Vomiting blood... see more Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Dang Gui Long Hui Wan | Xie Qing Wan
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire Haemoptysis, Tremors, Irritability, Anger, Tinnitus, Deafness, Temporal headache, Dizziness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Thirst, Bitter taste in the mouth, Vivid dreaming, Constipation, Dry stools, Dark urine, Nosebleeds, Vomiting blood, Cough of blood... see more Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Zi Xue Dan | Feng Yin Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Lung

In TCM the Lungs are seen as the organ responsible for controlling Qi and respiration, as well as being a key part of the body's defensive system. They are thought to maintain the balance and flow of air and moisture, and are closely linked to the skin and hair. When the Lungs are imbalanced or malfunctioning in TCM, it can lead to respiratory issues like coughing or asthma, a weakened immune system, dry skin, and emotional disturbances such as sadness or grief. These symptoms are believed to arise from disruptions in the Lungs' ability to regulate Qi and protect the body, highlighting their central role in maintaining overall health and well-being.... see more

Lung Patterns That Can Lead to Cough Of Blood

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Lung Yin Deficiency Blood spit, Hoarse voice, Itchy throat, Reluctance to speak, Thin chest Bai He Gu Jin Tang

TCM Herbal Formulas for Cough Of Blood

TCM treatment for cough of blood involves using specific formulas and herbs tailored to the patient’s underlying pattern. For Heat in the Blood, Xi Jiao Di Huang Tang is commonly used. This formula includes Water Buffalo Horns (Shui Niu Jiao), which cools the blood and stops bleeding.

For Wind Cold with Internal Heat, Shi Gao Tang is recommended. This formula contains Gypsum (Shi Gao), which helps clear heat and purge fire. The choice of formula depends on the specific pattern diagnosed, highlighting the personalized nature of TCM treatments.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address cough of blood, organized by cause and by formula type.

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas that clear heat from the organs
  • Formulas that clear nutritive-level heat
  • Formulas that clear heat from deficiency
  • Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
  • Formulas that secure irregular uterine bleeding and stop vaginal discharge
  • Formulas that stop bleeding
  • Formulas that clear heat from qi and blood
  • Formulas that release the exterior and clear the interior
  • Formulas that pacify and extinguish internal wind
  • Formulas that clear heat and open sensory orifices
  • Formulas that dredge and disperse external wind

All Formulas Recommended for Cough Of Blood Caused by Heat

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Xi Jiao Di Huang Tang Heat in the Blood
Gu Jing Wan Heat in the Blood
Shi Hui San Heat in the Blood
Bai He Di Huang Tang Heat in the Blood
Hua Ban Tang Heat in the Blood
Qing Ying Tang Heat in the Blood
Qing Re Gu Jing Tang Heat in the Blood
Shi Gao Tang Wind Cold with Internal Heat
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang Liver Fire Blazing
Dang Gui Long Hui Wan Liver Fire Blazing
Xie Qing Wan Liver Fire Blazing
Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire
Zi Xue Dan Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire
Feng Yin Tang Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire

All Formulas Recommended for Cough Of Blood Caused by Wind

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Shi Gao Tang Wind Cold with Internal Heat
Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire
Zi Xue Dan Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire
Feng Yin Tang Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire

All "formulas that clear nutritive-level heat" recommended for cough of blood

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Xi Jiao Di Huang Tang Heat in the Blood, Loss of Blood
Qing Ying Tang Heat in the Blood

All "formulas that clear heat from the organs" recommended for cough of blood

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang Liver Fire Blazing
Dang Gui Long Hui Wan Liver Fire Blazing
Xie Qing Wan Liver Fire Blazing

All "formulas that clear heat from deficiency" recommended for cough of blood

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Bai He Di Huang Tang Heat in the Blood
Qing Re Gu Jing Tang Heat in the Blood

Acupoints for Cough Of Blood

In TCM, specific acupoints are used to treat cough of blood by addressing the underlying disharmony. Fengmen (BL-12) on the Bladder Channel, located 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 2nd thoracic vertebra, helps expel exterior wind and strengthen Defensive Qi.

Another important acupoint is Kongzui (LU-6) on the Lung Channel, located on the palmar aspect of the forearm, 7 cun above Taiyuan (LU-9). This point regulates and descends Lung Qi, clears Lung Heat, and cools Blood Heat. Laogong (P-8) on the Pericardium Channel, located in the center of the palm, clears Heart Fire and calms the mind. These acupoints, when used in combination, help to address the root causes of cough of blood in TCM.

Explore below some acupoints used to address cough of blood, organized by meridian.

  • By Meridian
  • Bladder Channel
  • Pericardium Channel
  • Directing Vessel
  • Lung Channel
  • Gall Bladder Channel
  • Small Intestine Channel
  • Kidney Channel
Fengmen BL-12

Fengmen BL-12

1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 2nd thoracic vertebra (T2).

Geshu BL-17

Geshu BL-17

1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 7th thoracic vertebra (T7).

Ganshu BL-18

Ganshu BL-18

1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 9th thoracic vertebra (T9).

Gaohuangshu BL-43

Gaohuangshu BL-43

3 cun (about 4 finger-breadths) lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 4th thoracic vertebra (T4).

Quze P-3

Quze P-3

On the transverse cubital crease, at the ulnar side of the tendon of biceps brachii muscle.

Ximen P-4

Ximen P-4

5 cun above the transverse crease of the wrist, on the line connecting Quze P-3 and Daling P-7, between the tendons of palmaris longus and flexor carpi radialis muscles.

Laogong P-8

Laogong P-8

In the center of the palm, between the 2nd and the 3rd metacarpal bones, proximal to the metacarpophalangeal joint.

Guanyuan REN-4

Guanyuan REN-4

On the midline of the abdomen, 3 cun below the umbilicus.

Zigong REN-19

Zigong REN-19

On the midline of the chest, on the level of the 2nd intercostal space.

Tianfu LU-3

Tianfu LU-3

On the medial aspect of the upper arm, 3 cun below the end of the axillary fold and 6 cun above Chize LU-5, in the depression on the lateral border of biceps muscle.

Kongzui LU-6

Kongzui LU-6

On the palmar aspect of the forearm, on the line joining Taiyuan LU-9 and Chize LU-5, 7 cun above Taiyuan LU-9.

Diwuhui GB-42

Diwuhui GB-42

Between the 4th and 5th metatarsal bones, on the medial side of the tendon of extensor digitorum longus muscle of the little toe.

Jianzhongshu SI-15

Jianzhongshu SI-15

2 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 7th cervical vertebra (C7).

Yuzhong KID-26

Yuzhong KID-26

In the 1st intercostal space, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline.