Uncontrolled Laughing Or Cryingaccording to TCM

What is uncontrolled laughing or crying?

Uncontrolled laughing or crying, also known as emotional lability, is a neurological condition where a person experiences sudden, involuntary episodes of laughter or crying that are disproportionate to their surroundings or mood. Unlike typical emotional responses, these episodes occur without an apparent reason and can be unpredictable, intense, and difficult to control. This condition is often associated with underlying neurological disorders such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, or traumatic brain injury, which can affect the areas of the brain that regulate emotion.

How does TCM view uncontrolled laughing or crying?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), uncontrolled laughing or crying is viewed not as a standalone disorder but as a manifestation of deeper, underlying imbalances in the body. TCM practitioners believe that symptoms like these can be caused by various patterns of disharmony, such as disruptions in the flow of Qi (vital energy) or Blood, or the presence of Phlegm or Heat.

Identifying the correct pattern is crucial to treatment, as different patterns require different therapeutic approaches. Unlike the Western medical approach, which often focuses on treating symptoms directly, TCM aims to restore balance to the body as a whole.

Root Causes of Uncontrolled Laughing Or Crying in TCM

Traditional Chinese Medicine identifies several potential causes for uncontrolled laughing or crying, often linked to specific patterns of disharmony in the body. For example, in the case of Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm and Fire obstruct the Pericardium, causing symptoms such as inappropriate laughter or crying, palpitations, flushed face, and a bitter taste in the mouth. This pattern reflects a disruption in the Heart's ability to house the Mind (Shen), leading to erratic emotional displays.

Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart shares similar symptoms, such as emotional outbursts, anxiety, and insomnia. Here, the Heart's function is directly impaired by heat and phlegm, disturbing the mind and leading to uncontrolled expressions of emotion. In both patterns, the accumulation of phlegm and heat obstructs the pathways of the mind, resulting in erratic and involuntary emotional behaviors.

Explore below more details about what might cause Uncontrolled laughing or crying according to TCM.

Phlegm

In TCM "Phlegm" as a pattern of disharmony is a complex concept that extends beyond the physical manifestation of mucus. It represents a pathological factor that can disrupt the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood, leading to various health issues. Phlegm in TCM is seen as a sticky, turbid substance arising from the body's inability to metabolize fluids properly, often due to a dysfunction of the spleen. It's not only associated with respiratory problems like cough and congestion but also with systemic issues. Symptoms can include a feeling of heaviness, mental cloudiness, dizziness, and in some cases, the formation of lumps or masses. Phlegm can even be "invisible," contributing to emotional disturbances like depression or stress. ... see more

Phlegm Patterns That Can Lead to Uncontrolled Laughing Or Crying

Common Symptoms: Palpitations Flushed Face Bitter Taste In The Mouth Noisy Breathing Restlessness Insomnia Vivid Dreaming Anxiety

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium	Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression, Stifling sensation in the chest, Chest pain, Rapid breath... see more	Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Zhi Bao Dan | Hui Chun Dan
Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart	Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression... see more	Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Sheng Tie Luo Yin

Mind Disturbance

In TCM "Shen" refers to the mind or spirit, and a Shen disturbance is a pattern of disharmony that affects the mental and emotional state. This concept reflects the TCM belief in the deep interconnectedness of mind and body. Symptoms of Shen disturbance can vary widely but often include anxiety, insomnia, restlessness, confusion, or in severe cases, hallucinations or delirium. These symptoms indicate an imbalance in the body's energies affecting the heart, which in TCM is not only the center of blood circulation but also the seat of the mind and consciousness. The root of Shen disturbance can be traced to various factors, including emotional stress, physical illness, or an imbalance in fundamental substances like Qi, Yin, or Yang.... see more

Mind Disturbance Patterns That Can Lead to Uncontrolled Laughing Or Crying

Common Symptoms: Palpitations Flushed Face Bitter Taste In The Mouth Noisy Breathing Restlessness Insomnia Vivid Dreaming Anxiety

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium	Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression, Stifling sensation in the chest, Chest pain, Rapid breath... see more	Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Zhi Bao Dan | Hui Chun Dan
Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart	Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression... see more	Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Sheng Tie Luo Yin

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 Uncontrolled Laughing Or Crying

Common Symptoms: Palpitations Flushed Face Bitter Taste In The Mouth Noisy Breathing Restlessness Insomnia Vivid Dreaming Anxiety

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium	Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression, Stifling sensation in the chest, Chest pain, Rapid breath... see more	Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Zhi Bao Dan | Hui Chun Dan
Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart	Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression... see more	Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Sheng Tie Luo Yin

Pericardium

In TCM the Pericardium is more than a physical membrane protecting the heart; it's considered an organ system that acts as the "Heart's protector." It plays a crucial role in safeguarding the heart from external pathogenic factors and emotional disturbances. The Pericardium is also involved in regulating blood circulation and influencing emotional well-being, especially in terms of relationships and intimacy. When the Pericardium malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to symptoms that mirror heart issues, such as chest pain or palpitations, but often with an emotional component like difficulty in forming emotional connections or excessive vulnerability to external stressors. Additionally, a disturbed Pericardium can result in sleep disturbances, anxiety, and in severe cases, mental confusion, reflecting its integral role in both physical heart protection and emotional balance.... see more

Pericardium Patterns That Can Lead to Uncontrolled Laughing Or Crying

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium	Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression, Stifling sensation in the chest, Chest pain, Rapid breath... see more	Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Zhi Bao Dan | Hui Chun Dan

Heart

In TCM the Heart is considered the "emperor" of all organs, primarily responsible for governing Blood and housing the mind, known as "Shen." It plays a crucial role in maintaining mental-emotional equilibrium and controlling the circulation of Qi and blood throughout the body. When the Heart is imbalanced or malfunctions in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues like heart palpitations, insomnia, dream-disturbed sleep, anxiety, and a flushed complexion. Emotional disturbances such as excessive joy or lack of joy are also seen as signs of Heart disharmony. These symptoms reflect not just physical heart conditions but also the state of one's Shen, indicating the interconnectedness of physical and emotional well-being in TCM.... see more

Heart Patterns That Can Lead to Uncontrolled Laughing Or Crying

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart	Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression... see more	Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Sheng Tie Luo Yin

TCM Herbal Formulas for Uncontrolled Laughing Or Crying

For managing uncontrolled laughing or crying, TCM emphasizes the use of specific herbal formulas to address the underlying pattern of disharmony. When Phlegm Fire is harassing the Pericardium or the Heart, Wen Dan Tang is a frequently recommended formula. This formula aims to dry Dampness, clear Heat, and transform Phlegm, thus calming the Mind and stabilizing emotional responses. Key herbs in this formula, such as Crow-Dipper Rhizomes (Ban Xia), help to clear Phlegm and Heat, allowing for a more balanced flow of Qi and a clearer state of Mind. The choice of herbs and formulas is always tailored to the individual's unique pattern and overall health condition.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address uncontrolled laughing or crying, organized by cause and by formula type.

Top Formula for Phlegm:
Wen Dan Tang

Suitable for Phlegm patterns that may cause uncontrolled laughing or crying, such as Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium or Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart

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All Formulas Recommended for Uncontrolled Laughing Or Crying Caused by Phlegm

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Wen Dan Tang	Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart
Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang	Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart
Zhi Bao Dan	Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium
Hui Chun Dan	Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium
Sheng Tie Luo Yin	Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart

Top Formula for Mind Disturbance:
Wen Dan Tang

Suitable for Mind Disturbance patterns that may cause uncontrolled laughing or crying, such as Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium or Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart

Learn more

All Formulas Recommended for Uncontrolled Laughing Or Crying Caused by Mind Disturbance

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Wen Dan Tang	Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart
Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang	Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart
Zhi Bao Dan	Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium
Hui Chun Dan	Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium
Sheng Tie Luo Yin	Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart

Top Formula for Heat:
Wen Dan Tang

Suitable for Heat patterns that may cause uncontrolled laughing or crying, such as Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium or Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart

Learn more

All Formulas Recommended for Uncontrolled Laughing Or Crying Caused by Heat

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Wen Dan Tang	Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart
Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang	Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart
Zhi Bao Dan	Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium
Hui Chun Dan	Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium
Sheng Tie Luo Yin	Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart

Acupoints for Uncontrolled Laughing Or Crying

Acupuncture is also employed in TCM to address uncontrolled laughing or crying, with specific acupoints selected to target the disharmonies associated with Phlegm Fire. For Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium or Heart, points like Yangxi LI-5 and Wenliu LI-7 on the Large Intestine channel help to clear Heat and calm the Mind's orifices.

On the Heart channel, acupoints such as Shaohai HE-3 and Shenmen HE-7 are crucial for removing channel Stagnation, clearing Heat, and calming the Mind. Additionally, Fenglong ST-40 on the Stomach channel is often used to resolve Phlegm, while Zusanli ST-36 helps tonify the body's Qi and Blood, promoting overall stability. These acupoints work in tandem to restore emotional balance and clarity by addressing both the symptoms and their root causes.

Explore below some acupoints used to address uncontrolled laughing or crying, organized by meridian.

Yangxi LI-5

On the radial side of the wrist. When the thumb is tilted upward, it is in the depression on the wrist joint space (wrist crease) between the tendons of extensor pollicis longus and brevis muscles.

Wenliu LI-7

When a fist is made, with the ulnar side downward and elbow flexed, the point is 5 cun above Yangxi LI-5 at the wrist crease, 1 cun distal to the midpoint of the line joining Yangxi LI-5 and Quchi LI-11.

Shaohai HE-3

When the elbow is flexed slightly, Shaohai HE-3 is at the medial end of the transverse cubital crease, in the depression radius to the medial epicondyle of the humerus.

Shenmen HE-7

On the transverse crease of the wrist, in the articular region between the pisiform bone and the ulna, in the depression on the radial side of the tendon of flexor carpi ulnaris muscle.

Zusanli ST-36

3 cun below Dubi ST-35, one finger breadth lateral to the anterior crest of the tibia, on the tibialis anterior muscle.

Fenglong ST-40

Midway between Dubi ST-35 and Jiexi ST-41, two middle finger-width from the anterior crest of the tibia, or one middle finger-width from Tiaokou ST-38.

Shangqiu SP-5

In the depression distal and inferior to the medial malleolus, midway between the navicular bone tubercle and the tip of the medial malleolus.