Ear Swellingaccording to TCM

What is Ear Swelling?

Ear swelling is an uncomfortable and often painful condition characterized by the puffiness or enlargement of the ear tissue. This can occur in one or both ears and may be associated with a variety of symptoms including redness, warmth, and sometimes infection or discharge. Ear swelling can stem from a range of issues, such as an allergic reaction, infection, trauma, or insect bites. It’s a clear sign that the body is responding to a problem in the ear area.

How does TCM view Ear Swelling?

In the holistic approach of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), ear swelling is not merely a localized issue but an external manifestation of an internal imbalance. The concept of a 'pattern' is central to TCM's diagnostic process. A pattern is a constellation of signs, symptoms, and causes of illness that reflect a particular imbalance in the body’s energy (Qi), organs, and meridians.

Understanding these patterns is essential because TCM treatments, whether involving acupuncture, herbs, or lifestyle adjustments, are tailored to correct the specific pattern of disharmony rather than just addressing the symptom. Identifying the pattern behind ear swelling helps TCM practitioners to treat the root of the problem effectively, thereby providing a more lasting relief and preventing recurrence.

Root Causes of Ear Swelling in TCM

According to TCM, ear swelling may be the result of internal Heat, often stemming from an Excess condition within the Liver or Gallbladder. Commonly, this is characterized by symptoms such as hypochondriac pain, headaches, and a bitter taste in the mouth alongside the swelling.

Such a pattern not only affects the ears but can also manifest in the eyes and head due to the interconnected nature of the meridians. The aim of TCM treatment is to expel the Heat and restore the free flow of Qi, thereby reducing swelling and alleviating associated symptoms.

Explore below more details about what might cause Ear swelling according to TCM.

Heat

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

Heat Patterns That Can Lead to Ear Swelling

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Heat Excess in the Liver or Gallbladder	Swelling in the ears, Hypochondriac pain, Headaches, Dizziness, Red and irritated eyes, Hearing loss, Ear swelling, Bitter taste in the mouth, Irritability, Painful urination, Swollen and itchy external genitalia... see more	Long Dan Xie Gan Tang

Gallbladder

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

Gallbladder Patterns That Can Lead to Ear Swelling

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Heat Excess in the Liver or Gallbladder	Swelling in the ears, Hypochondriac pain, Headaches, Dizziness, Red and irritated eyes, Hearing loss, Ear swelling, Bitter taste in the mouth, Irritability, Painful urination, Swollen and itchy external genitalia... see more	Long Dan Xie Gan Tang

Liver

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

Liver Patterns That Can Lead to Ear Swelling

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Heat Excess in the Liver or Gallbladder	Swelling in the ears, Hypochondriac pain, Headaches, Dizziness, Red and irritated eyes, Hearing loss, Ear swelling, Bitter taste in the mouth, Irritability, Painful urination, Swollen and itchy external genitalia... see more	Long Dan Xie Gan Tang

TCM Herbal Formulas for Ear Swelling

When addressing ear swelling, TCM may employ herbal formulas such as Long Dan Xie Gan Tang. This particular formula is used for Heat patterns, especially when related to the Liver and Gallbladder. It includes herbs like Chinese Gentian, which is known for its ability to clear Heat and dry Dampness. Herbal treatments are tailored to the individual's specific pattern of disharmony, ensuring a personalized approach to restoring balance and well-being.

See more details below about Long Dan Xie Gan Tang, a herbal formula used to address ear swelling.

Top Formula for Heat:
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang

Suitable for Heat patterns that may cause ear swelling, such as Heat Excess in the Liver or Gallbladder

Learn more

Acupoints for Ear Swelling

TCM also utilizes acupuncture to treat ear swelling, targeting specific points that correspond to the underlying pattern. Points like Ermen TB-21, located near the ear, are chosen for their ability to benefit the ears and expel Wind, a common pathological factor in ear issues.

Other points such as Waiguan TB-5 may be used to address Wind-Heat, which can contribute to swelling and discomfort. The combination of points selected will depend on the individual's comprehensive TCM diagnosis.

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

Waiguan TB-5

2 cun above Yangchi TB-4 at the dorsal wrist joint space, between the radius and ulna.

Yifeng TB-17

Posterior to the lobule of the ear, in the depression between the mandible and mastoid process.

Jiaosun TB-20

Directly above the ear apex, within the hairline of the temple.

Ermen TB-21

In the depression anterior to the supratragic notch and slightly superior to the condyloid process of the mandible. The point should be located and needled with mouth open. Tinggong SI-19 and Tinghui GB-2 are located below Ermen TB-21.

Tinghui GB-2

Anterior to the intertragic notch, directly below Tinggong SI-19, at the posterior border of the condyloid process of the mandible.