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Lip Swellingaccording to TCM

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Symptom families: Lip Symptoms, Oral Inflammations and Infections

What is Lip Swelling?

Lip swelling, medically known as lip edema, refers to the enlargement or puffiness of the lips due to fluid accumulation or inflammation. This condition can arise from various causes including allergic reactions, infections, trauma, or underlying health issues. Symptoms often include redness, pain, and difficulty in moving the lips. In severe cases, swelling can impair breathing and require immediate medical attention. Understanding the underlying cause of lip swelling is crucial for effective treatment and prevention of recurrence.

How Does TCM View Lip Swelling?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), lip swelling is viewed as a manifestation of internal imbalances or obstructions in the body's meridians. Unlike Western medicine, which might focus on direct causes like allergies or infections, TCM considers patterns such as Wind invasion, Heat accumulation, or Qi Stagnation. Identifying the specific pattern is essential in TCM, as it guides the practitioner in choosing the appropriate treatment strategy to restore balance and alleviate symptoms.

Acupoints for Lip Swelling

Acupuncture is a common treatment method in TCM for addressing lip swelling, aiming to restore the flow of Qi and alleviate the swelling. Specific acupoints are targeted to reduce inflammation and promote circulation. For instance, Juliao (ST-3), located directly below Sibai (ST-2) at the lower border of the ala nasi, is used to expel Wind and alleviate swelling.

Similarly, Duiduan (DU-27), situated at the junction of the philtrum and upper lip, helps clear Heat and benefits the mouth. By stimulating these acupoints, TCM seeks to harmonize the body's internal environment, providing relief from swelling and promoting overall health.

Explore below some acupoints used to address lip swelling, organized by meridian.

  • By Meridian
  • Stomach Channel
  • Governing Vessel
Juliao ST-3

Juliao ST-3

Directly below Sibai ST-2, at the level of the lower border of ala nasi.

Yingchuang ST-16

Yingchuang ST-16

In the 3nd intercostal space, on the mammillary line, 4 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Duiduan DU-27

Duiduan DU-27

On the midline, at the junction of the philtrum and the upper lip.