Symptom families: Chest & Hypochondriac Pain and Distention, Chest Swelling, Congestion, and Physical Changes
Did you mean? Hypochondriac Distention
Hypochondriac fullness is a term used in both Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine, albeit with different interpretations. In a medical context, it refers to a sensation of pressure or discomfort in the upper abdominal area, particularly under the lower ribs. This symptom is often associated with disorders affecting the organs in this region, such as the liver and gallbladder.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), hypochondriac fullness is seen not just as a physical symptom but as a manifestation of an underlying imbalance in the body's energetic systems. TCM posits that such symptoms result from disruptions in the flow of Qi, the vital energy, or imbalances in the Yin and Yang. Recognizing the specific pattern of disharmony—whether it involves stagnation, dampness, heat, or a deficiency—is crucial for targeting treatment effectively and restoring balance.
TCM identifies several patterns that can lead to hypochondriac fullness, such as Damp-Heat and Qi Stagnation being prominent. Damp-Heat in the Liver manifests with symptoms such as a feeling of fullness in the ribs, a bitter taste in the mouth, and nausea. Treatments often involve formulas like Long Dan Xie Gan Tang, which aims to clear heat and dry Dampness, utilizing herbs such as Chinese Gentian.
Another common cause is Qi Stagnation, particularly of the Liver, which may present as fluctuating pain and discomfort, emotional disturbances, and an irregular appetite. Remedies typically include Qi-moving herbs like those found in Xiao Chai Hu Tang, which harmonizes and releases trapped energy.
Explore below more details about what might cause Hypochondriac fullness according to TCM.
"Dampness" in TCM is a concept that describes a pattern of disharmony where the body accumulates excess moisture. Imagine the heavy, sticky feeling you get on a very humid day; that's similar to what dampness feels like internally. It can manifest as a sense of heaviness, bloating, sluggishness, or even a foggy mind. This condition is often thought to arise from environmental factors like living in a damp place, dietary habits that promote moisture in the body, or internal imbalances that hinder the body's ability to process fluids properly. In TCM, dampness can obstruct the normal flow of energy and fluids in the body, leading to various symptoms.... see more
Common Symptoms: Sticky Taste In The Mouth Feeling Of Heaviness Jaundice Abdominal Fullness Lower Abdominal Fullness Bitter Taste In The Mouth Lack Of Appetite Nausea
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Damp-Heat in the Liver | Hypochondrium fullness, Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Abdominal fullness, Lower abdominal fullness, Bitter taste in the mouth, Sticky taste in the mouth, Lack of appetite, Nausea, Feeling of heaviness, Yellow vaginal discharge, Vaginal itching, Vulvar eczema, Vulvar sores, Bleeding between periods, Midcycle bleeding pain, Red and swollen scrotum, Red and swelling genital, Papules, Itchy vesicular rashes, Urinary dysfunction, Urinary burning, Dark urine... see more | Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Yin Chen Hao Tang |
Dampness in the Gallbladder | Hypochondrium fullness, Jaundice, Dull yellow complexion, Yellow eyes, Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Nausea or vomiting, Fat malabsorption, Yellow sclera, Cloudy urine, Absence of thirst, Sticky taste in the mouth, Dull headache, Feeling of heaviness... see more | San Ren Tang |
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
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Lung Qi Deficiency and Liver Qi Stagnation | Hypochondrium fullness, Coughing, Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Dizziness, Headaches, Depression, Low energy, Moving pain, Hepatitis, Chronic cholecystitis, Chronic gastritis... see more | Xiao Chai Hu Tang |
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
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Lung Qi Deficiency and Liver Qi Stagnation | Hypochondrium fullness, Coughing, Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Dizziness, Headaches, Depression, Low energy, Moving pain, Hepatitis, Chronic cholecystitis, Chronic gastritis... see more | Xiao Chai Hu Tang |
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
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Stagnation of Cold in the Liver Channel | Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Testicular pain, Scrotal contraction, Vertical headaches, Chills, Cold extremities, Vomiting clear liquid, Vaginal atrophy... see more | Nuan Gan Jian |
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
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Damp-Heat in the Liver | Hypochondrium fullness, Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Abdominal fullness, Lower abdominal fullness, Bitter taste in the mouth, Sticky taste in the mouth, Lack of appetite, Nausea, Feeling of heaviness, Yellow vaginal discharge, Vaginal itching, Vulvar eczema, Vulvar sores, Bleeding between periods, Midcycle bleeding pain, Red and swollen scrotum, Red and swelling genital, Papules, Itchy vesicular rashes, Urinary dysfunction, Urinary burning, Dark urine... see more | Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Yin Chen Hao Tang |
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
Common Symptoms: Testicular Pain Scrotal Contraction Vertical Headaches Chills Cold Extremities Vomiting Clear Liquid Vaginal Atrophy Abdominal Fullness
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Stagnation of Cold in the Liver Channel | Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Testicular pain, Scrotal contraction, Vertical headaches, Chills, Cold extremities, Vomiting clear liquid, Vaginal atrophy... see more | Nuan Gan Jian |
Damp-Heat in the Liver | Hypochondrium fullness, Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Abdominal fullness, Lower abdominal fullness, Bitter taste in the mouth, Sticky taste in the mouth, Lack of appetite, Nausea, Feeling of heaviness, Yellow vaginal discharge, Vaginal itching, Vulvar eczema, Vulvar sores, Bleeding between periods, Midcycle bleeding pain, Red and swollen scrotum, Red and swelling genital, Papules, Itchy vesicular rashes, Urinary dysfunction, Urinary burning, Dark urine... see more | Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Yin Chen Hao Tang |
Lung Qi Deficiency and Liver Qi Stagnation | Hypochondrium fullness, Coughing, Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Dizziness, Headaches, Depression, Low energy, Moving pain, Hepatitis, Chronic cholecystitis, Chronic gastritis... see more | Xiao Chai Hu Tang |
In TCM the Gallbladder has a unique role in storing and excreting bile, but more importantly, it's seen as crucial for decision-making and courage. It's closely connected to the Liver, assisting in the smooth flow of Qi (vital energy) and supporting the Liver's role in maintaining emotional balance. When the Gallbladder malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to physical symptoms like gallstones, jaundice, or a bitter taste in the mouth. There might also be digestive disturbances, particularly related to fat metabolism. On an emotional level, a Gallbladder disorder can manifest as indecisiveness, timidity, or a tendency to easily succumb to stress. These symptoms highlight the TCM view of the Gallbladder as integral to both physical processes and emotional resilience.... see more
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Dampness in the Gallbladder | Hypochondrium fullness, Jaundice, Dull yellow complexion, Yellow eyes, Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Nausea or vomiting, Fat malabsorption, Yellow sclera, Cloudy urine, Absence of thirst, Sticky taste in the mouth, Dull headache, Feeling of heaviness... see more | San Ren Tang |
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
Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
---|---|---|
Lung Qi Deficiency and Liver Qi Stagnation | Hypochondrium fullness, Coughing, Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Dizziness, Headaches, Depression, Low energy, Moving pain, Hepatitis, Chronic cholecystitis, Chronic gastritis... see more | Xiao Chai Hu Tang |
For treating hypochondriac fullness, TCM practitioners may recommend several key formulas depending on the identified pattern. If Damp-Heat is diagnosed, particularly within the Liver, Long Dan Xie Gan Tang is commonly prescribed to expel the Excess and alleviate symptoms.
For issues stemming from Qi Stagnation, Xiao Chai Hu Tang can be beneficial as it helps to soothe the Liver and regulate Qi. These formulas are tailored to address not only the symptoms but also the root causes, whether they involve excess, deficiency, or stagnation, ensuring a holistic approach to healing.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address hypochondriac fullness, organized by cause and by formula type.
Suitable for Dampness patterns that may cause hypochondriac fullness, such as Damp-Heat in the Liver
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Damp-Heat in the Liver |
Yin Chen Hao Tang | Damp-Heat in the Liver |
San Ren Tang | Dampness in the Gallbladder |
Suitable for Qi Stagnation patterns that may cause hypochondriac fullness, such as Lung Qi Deficiency and Liver Qi Stagnation
Learn moreSuitable for Qi Deficiency patterns that may cause hypochondriac fullness, such as Lung Qi Deficiency and Liver Qi Stagnation
Learn moreSuitable for Cold patterns that may cause hypochondriac fullness, such as Stagnation of Cold in the Liver Channel
Learn moreSuitable for Heat patterns that may cause hypochondriac fullness, such as Damp-Heat in the Liver
Learn moreFormula | Patterns Suitable For |
---|---|
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Damp-Heat in the Liver |
Yin Chen Hao Tang | Damp-Heat in the Liver |
These formulas are suitable for some hypochondriac fullness-causing patterns like Damp-Heat in the Liver.
One such formula is Yin Chen Hao Tang, with virgate wormwood as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
---|---|
Yin Chen Hao Tang | Damp-Heat in the Liver |
San Ren Tang | Dampness in the Gallbladder |
These formulas are suitable for some hypochondriac fullness-causing patterns like Lesser Yang stage or Lung Qi Deficiency and Liver Qi Stagnation.
One such formula is Xiao Chai Hu Tang, with bupleurum root as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some hypochondriac fullness-causing patterns like Stagnation of Cold in the Liver Channel.
One such formula is Nuan Gan Jian, with fennel seeds as a key herb.
These formulas are suitable for some hypochondriac fullness-causing patterns like Damp-Heat in the Liver.
One such formula is Long Dan Xie Gan Tang, with chinese gentian as a key herb.
To complement herbal treatments, specific acupoints can be targeted to alleviate hypochondriac fullness. Yishe BL-49 and Zhiyang DU-9 are potent points for resolving Damp-Heat and enhancing the flow of Qi through the body’s meridians. Shenfeng KID-23 is useful for subduing Rebellious Qi that might contribute to symptoms in the upper body, while Jiquan HE-1 serves to nourish Heart Yin and calm the Mind, easing the emotional components often associated with liver Qi Stagnation. These acupoints are strategically chosen to synergize with herbal treatments, optimizing the therapeutic outcomes.
Explore below some acupoints used to address hypochondriac fullness, organized by meridian.
3 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 11th thoracic vertebra (T11).
On the back midline, in the depression below the spinous process of the 7th thoracic vertebra (T7).
In the 4th intercostal space, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline.
In the center of the axilla, on the medial side of the axillary artery.