Enuresisaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Urinary Incontinence and Dysfunction
Sub-symptom(s): Pediatric Nocturnal Enuresis
What is Enuresis?
Enuresis, commonly known as bedwetting, is the involuntary discharge of urine, often occurring at night during sleep. This condition, particularly distressing in children and adolescents, is classified as pediatric nocturnal enuresis when it pertains to nighttime incidents in the pediatric population.
How does TCM view Enuresis?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perceives enuresis as a manifestation of an underlying imbalance within the body's vital energies. TCM emphasizes that symptoms are caused by different patterns of disharmony, making it crucial to identify the correct pattern for effective treatment.
Root Causes of Enuresis in TCM
In TCM, enuresis may arise from multiple causes. Qi Deficiency, particularly of the Bladder and Kidneys, often leads to an inability to control urination. A person with a pale complexion, low energy, and frequent, pale urination may be experiencing Bladder Deficient and Empty Cold, signaling a need for warming and Qi-strengthening treatments.
Alternatively, Kidney Qi not Firm could present with similar urinary symptoms, accompanied by lower back pain and a feeling of cold, indicating a deeper Deficiency that requires nourishing the Kidney's Yang energy.
Explore below more details about what might cause Enuresis according to TCM.
- By Syndrome
- By Organ
- Qi Deficiency
- Cold
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 Enuresis
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Kidney Qi not Firm | Enuresis, Lower back pain, Lower back weakness, Polyuria, Weak urine stream, 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 |
TCM Herbal Formulas for Enuresis
The selection of TCM formulas and herbs is contingent upon the individual's specific pattern. For Bladder Deficient and Empty Cold, Sang Piao Xiao San, which includes Praying Mantis Egg-Cases, might be employed to stabilize and warm the Bladder.
Kidney Qi not Firm may be addressed with You Gui Wan, featuring Prepared aconite to bolster the Kidney's Yang energy and help restore proper urinary function.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address enuresis, organized by cause and by formula type.
- By Cause
- By Formula Type
- Qi Deficiency
- Cold
Top Formula for Qi Deficiency:
You Gui Wan
Suitable for Qi Deficiency patterns that may cause enuresis, such as Kidney Qi not Firm
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Enuresis Caused by Qi Deficiency
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| You Gui Wan | Kidney Qi not Firm |
| Jin Suo Gu Jing Wan | Kidney Qi not Firm |
| Fu Tu Dan | Kidney Qi not Firm |
| Qing E Wan | Kidney Qi not Firm |
| Tu Si Zi Wan | Kidney Qi not Firm |
Acupoints for Enuresis
TCM also utilizes acupoint stimulation to treat enuresis. Points such as Ciliao BL-32 and Shenshu BL-23 on the Bladder Channel are often selected for their capacity to regulate the Lower Burner and fortify Kidney essence. Sanyinjiao SP-6, located on the Spleen Channel, is another pivotal point known for its effectiveness in strengthening the Spleen and Kidney, thereby improving urinary function. These points, among others, are integral to a comprehensive TCM approach to managing enuresis.
Explore below some acupoints used to address enuresis, organized by meridian.
- By Meridian
- Bladder Channel
- Spleen Channel
- Heart Channel
Shenshu BL-23
1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 2nd lumber vertebra (L2).
Guanyuanshu BL-26
1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 5th lumber vertebra (L5).
Xiaochangshu BL-27
At the level of the 1st posterior sacral foramen, 1.5 cun lateral to the posterior midline.
Pangguangshu BL-28
At the level of the 2nd posterior sacral foramen, 1.5 cun lateral to the posterior midline, in the depression between the medial border of the posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS) and the sacrum.
Ciliao BL-32
In the 2nd posterior sacral foramen, about midway between the posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS) and the midline.
Weiyang BL-39
At the lateral end of the popliteal crease, on the medial border of the tendon of biceps femoris muscle, 1 cun lateral to Weizhong BL-40 which is the midpoint of the popliteal crease. It is also 1 cun below Fuxi BL-38.
