Epigastric Pain Worsen By Pressureaccording to TCM
Symptom families: Upper Abdominal Pain and Discomfort, Chest Discomfort & Sensations
Parent symptom: Upper Abdominal Pain
What is Epigastric Pain Worsened by Pressure?
Epigastric pain worsened by pressure is a discomfort localized in the upper abdomen that intensifies upon applying pressure. This symptom is a hallmark of various gastrointestinal disorders and can indicate underlying issues ranging from minor dietary indiscretions to more serious conditions such as ulcers or gastritis. The pain is typically situated above the navel and below the ribcage, precisely where the stomach lies, making it a significant pointer toward the health of the gastric system. Understanding this symptom's nature and triggers is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
How does TCM view Epigastric Pain Worsened by Pressure?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), epigastric pain worsened by pressure is viewed through a holistic lens, considering not just the symptom but the entire body's energy balance. TCM interprets this type of pain as indicative of imbalances or blockages in the body’s Qi (energy) flow, particularly in the Stomach and Spleen.
The focus is on identifying the underlying patterns of disharmony that manifest this pain, emphasizing the interconnectedness of bodily systems and the importance of restoring balance to alleviate symptoms.
Root Causes of Epigastric Pain Worsen By Pressure in TCM
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, epigastric pain that intensifies with pressure is often associated with an imbalance known as Yin Excess. This condition suggests an accumulation of Cold or Damp qualities within the body, disrupting the smooth function of the digestive system.
Symptoms accompanying this pattern might include a lack of appetite, a sensation of fullness or oppression in the chest, nausea, and a preference for warmth, indicating a disruption in the body’s natural energy flow. TCM approaches such disorders with a holistic perspective, aiming to identify and rectify the underlying imbalances, rather than merely treating the symptoms.
Explore below more details about what might cause Epigastric pain worsen by pressure according to TCM.
- By Syndrome
- Yin Excess
Yin Excess
Yin Excess in TCM is a pattern of disharmony characterized by an overabundance of Yin energy, leading to symptoms of dampness and coldness in the body. This condition often results from an imbalance where the cooling, moistening aspects of Yin overshadow the warm, active qualities of Yang energy. Symptoms can include a feeling of heaviness, lethargy, cold sensations, pale complexion, and possibly edema or fluid retention. Digestive issues such as poor appetite, bloating, and loose stools may also be present, reflecting the impact of excess Yin on the body's metabolic processes. Treatment in TCM for Yin Excess focuses on reducing the excess Yin and stimulating Yang energy to restore balance. ... see more
Yin Excess Patterns That Can Lead to Epigastric Pain Worsen By Pressure
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Yin Excess | Epigastric pain worsen by pressure, Absence of thirst, Slow and forceful movement, Polyuria, Feeling of chest oppression, Nausea, Excessive vaginal discharge, Lack of appetite, Pain relieved by heat, Chills, Cold extremities, Pale urine... see more | Wu Ling San | Wu Pi Yin |
TCM Herbal Formulas for Epigastric Pain Worsen By Pressure
To address the root cause of epigastric pain exacerbated by pressure from a Yin Excess perspective, TCM turns to formulas designed to rebalance the internal climate of the body, dispelling excess Cold and Dampness. Among these, Wu Ling San stands out, incorporating Water plantain (Ze Xie) to promote diuresis and clear Dampness, thereby alleviating the pressure-induced pain by restoring harmony to the stomach’s environment.
Similarly, Wu Pi Yin leverages the properties of Poria-Cocos Mushrooms (Fu Ling) to enhance its dampness-leaching action, further supporting the body’s return to a state of balanced health. These formulas exemplify TCM’s approach to healing by addressing the specific pattern of disharmony, promoting a holistic recovery.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address epigastric pain worsen by pressure, organized by cause and by formula type.
- By Cause
- By Formula Type
- Yin Excess
- Formulas that promote urination and leach out dampness
Top Formula for Yin Excess:
Wu Ling San
Suitable for Yin Excess patterns that may cause epigastric pain worsen by pressure, such as Yin Excess
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Epigastric Pain Worsen By Pressure Caused by Yin Excess
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Wu Ling San | Yin Excess |
| Wu Pi Yin | Yin Excess |
Formulas that promote urination and leach out Dampness
These formulas are suitable for some epigastric pain worsen by pressure-causing patterns like Yin Excess.
One such formula is Wu Ling San, with water plantain as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that promote urination and leach out dampness" recommended for epigastric pain worsen by pressure
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Wu Ling San | Yin Excess |
| Wu Pi Yin | Yin Excess |
TCM Herbs for Epigastric Pain Worsen By Pressure
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address epigastric pain worsen by pressure, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Herbs that drain dampness
- Herbs that cool the blood
Herbs that drain Dampness
Epigastric pain worsen by pressure can be treated by these herbs when caused by excessive dampness in the body, aiding in eliminating damp through diuretic action.
One such herb is Water Plantain (Ze Xie), a key herb in some formulas recommended for epigastric pain worsen by pressure, like Wu Ling San.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that drain Dampness" recommended for epigastric pain worsen by pressure
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Water Plantain (Ze Xie) | Wu Ling San |
| Poria-Cocos Mushrooms (Fu Ling) | Wu Pi Yin |
| Ginger Peel (Sheng Jiang Pi) | Wu Pi Yin |
Herbs that cool the Blood
Epigastric pain worsen by pressure can be treated by these herbs when it is a consequence of excess heat in the blood, helping to cool and detoxify the blood.
One such herb is Mulberry Bark (Sang Bai Pi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for epigastric pain worsen by pressure, like Wu Pi Yin.