Nasal Discharge In Childrenaccording to TCM
Symptom families: Pediatric Disorders and Symptoms, Nasal Disorders and Symptoms
Parent symptom: Nasal Discharge
What is Nasal Discharge in Children?
Nasal discharge in children, commonly referred to as a runny or snotty nose, is a frequent symptom often observed in pediatric patients. This condition involves the excess production of mucus by the nasal membranes, usually as a response to irritants, infections, or allergies. In children, nasal discharge can range from clear and watery to thick and colored, depending on the underlying cause.
It's a common manifestation in various childhood ailments, such as colds, flu, sinus infections, and allergies, and can be accompanied by other symptoms like sneezing, coughing, and congestion.
How does TCM view Nasal Discharge in Children?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches nasal discharge in children through a holistic lens, viewing it as a symptom of an imbalance within the body’s energetic system. TCM practitioners often interpret nasal discharge as a manifestation of external pathogenic factors like Wind, Cold, or Heat invading the body, or as a result of internal imbalances such as Qi Deficiency or Dampness accumulation.
The nature of the discharge – whether clear or colored, thin or thick – provides clues to the underlying disharmony in TCM diagnosis. Treatment focuses on restoring balance and harmonizing the body's Qi, often through a combination of herbal medicine, acupuncture, and dietary adjustments.
Acupoints for Nasal Discharge In Children
In TCM, specific acupoints are utilized to address nasal discharge in children, aiming to clear the nasal passages and harmonize the body's energies. One such point is Xinhui DU-22, located on the head midline, 3 cun anterior to Baihui DU-20 and 2 cun posterior to the front hairline. Stimulating this point is believed to expel Wind and benefit the head and nose, making it effective in alleviating symptoms of nasal congestion and discharge. The selection of acupoints is tailored to the child’s specific TCM pattern diagnosis, ensuring a targeted and holistic approach to treatment.
See more details below about Xinhui DU-22, an acupoint used to address nasal discharge in children.
- By Meridian
- Governing Vessel
Xinhui DU-22
On the head midline, 3 cun anterior to Baihui DU-20, 2 cun posterior to the front hairline.