Symptom family: Cough Related Symptoms

Sub-symptom(s): Persistent Wheezing

What is Wheezing?

Wheezing is a common respiratory symptom characterized by a high-pitched, whistling sound during breathing. It occurs when the airways are constricted or obstructed, often as a result of inflammation or a buildup of mucus.

Wheezing can range from mild to severe and is often associated with conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and allergies. Persistent wheezing is a notable sub-symptom that requires medical attention to determine and address the underlying cause.

How does TCM view Wheezing?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), wheezing is viewed as a sign of disharmony within the body's energy pathways or Qi. TCM practitioners believe that wheezing is often a result of an imbalance in the Lung and Kidney systems, with factors such as Phlegm, external pathogens, and Yin or Yang Deficiencies playing crucial roles. Unlike Western medicine, which typically focuses on the symptom, TCM aims to restore the overall balance of the body to alleviate wheezing.

Root Causes of Wheezing in TCM

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), wheezing is considered a symptom arising from imbalances in the body's Qi (energy) flow, particularly within the Lung. One common cause identified in TCM is Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs, where the accumulation of Phlegm obstructs the flow of Qi, leading to wheezing, a feeling of chest heaviness, and difficulty in breathing.

Another pattern, Dry-Phlegm in the Lungs, is marked by a dry cough and the presence of scanty, sticky sputum. This indicates a Deficiency of Lung Yin, where the Dryness in the Lungs fails to nourish and moisten the airways.

Lung Yang Deficiency, characterized by symptoms like cold extremities, fatigue, and a pale complexion, suggests a diminished warming and Qi-moving function of the lungs, resulting in wheezing and shortness of breath.

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

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Lung
  • Kidney
Detailed description of the cause

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 Wheezing

Common Symptoms: Stifling Sensation In The Chest Dizziness Coughing Sputum Shortness Of Breath Feeling Of Heaviness Asthma Pale Face

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs Wheezing, Coughing, Pale face, Sputum, Stifling sensation in the chest, Shortness of breath, Discomfort when lying down, Nausea, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum, Asthma, Chest distension... see more Er Chen Tang
Dry-Phlegm in the Lungs Wheezing, Dry cough, Scanty sputum, Shortness of breath, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Dry throat, Pale face... see more Bei Mu Gua Lou San
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs Wheezing, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Head and body heaviness, Dizziness, Copious thick yellow sputum... see more Er Chen Tang | Wen Dan Tang | Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang | Qing Xin Li Ge Tang | Ren Shen Ge Jie San | Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin
Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm Wheezing, Coughing, Asthma, Edema, Stifling sensation in the chest, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum... see more Xiao Qing Long Tang
Detailed description of the cause

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 Wheezing

Common Symptoms: Asthma Coughing With Blood Streaked Sputum Dry Throat Hot Palms And Soles Night Sweats Chronic Bronchitis Chronic Pharyngitis Spontaneous Pneumothorax

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs Wheezing, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Head and body heaviness, Dizziness, Copious thick yellow sputum... see more Er Chen Tang | Wen Dan Tang | Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang | Qing Xin Li Ge Tang | Ren Shen Ge Jie San | Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin
Lung and Kidney Yin Deficiency with Empty Fire Wheezing, Coughing with blood streaked sputum, Dry throat, Hot palms and soles, Night sweats, Chronic bronchitis, Chronic pharyngitis, Spontaneous pneumothorax, Cor pulmonale, Silicosis, Pulmonary tuberculosis... see more Bai He Gu Jin Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Yin Deficiency

Yin deficiency in TCM is a pattern of disharmony characterized by a depletion of the body's Yin energy, which represents the cooling, moistening, and nurturing aspects of our physiology. This condition often arises from factors like chronic stress, overwork, insufficient rest, or prolonged illness. Symptoms of Yin deficiency can include a sensation of heat, especially in the afternoon or evening, night sweats, insomnia, a dry mouth or throat, and a red tongue with little coating. There might also be a general feeling of restlessness or irritability. Since Yin is essential for balancing the body's active and warm Yang energy, its deficiency leads to a relative excess of Yang, manifesting as heat or dryness symptoms.... see more

Yin Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Wheezing

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Lung and Kidney Yin Deficiency with Empty Fire Wheezing, Coughing with blood streaked sputum, Dry throat, Hot palms and soles, Night sweats, Chronic bronchitis, Chronic pharyngitis, Spontaneous pneumothorax, Cor pulmonale, Silicosis, Pulmonary tuberculosis... see more Bai He Gu Jin Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Yang Deficiency

Yang deficiency in TCM refers to a state where the body's Yang energy, which is responsible for warmth, activity, and function, is weakened or diminished. This pattern of disharmony often arises from chronic illness, aging, or inherent constitutional weakness. Symptoms of Yang deficiency are typically associated with cold and sluggishness, such as a feeling of coldness, cold extremities, pale complexion, low energy or fatigue, and a desire for warmth. Digestive issues like poor appetite, loose stools, and water retention can also be indicative of Yang deficiency.... see more

Yang Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Wheezing

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Lung Yang Deficiency Wheezing, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Cold extremities, Spontaneous sweat, Frequent colds or flu, Pale face, Generalized fatigue, Shortness of breath, Absence of thirst, Weak voice... see more Gan Cao Gan Jiang Tang | Si Jun Zi Tang | Sheng Mai San
Detailed description of the cause

Dampness

"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

Dampness Patterns That Can Lead to Wheezing

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs Wheezing, Coughing, Pale face, Sputum, Stifling sensation in the chest, Shortness of breath, Discomfort when lying down, Nausea, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum, Asthma, Chest distension... see more Er Chen Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Dryness

"Dryness" in TCM refers to a state where there is a lack of moisture in the body, much like how the land feels during a drought. It's a pattern of disharmony that can arise from external factors like dry weather or internal issues, such as insufficient fluid intake or certain lifestyle habits. When your body experiences this dryness, you might notice symptoms like dry skin, a scratchy throat, dry eyes, or even constipation. It's similar to the feeling of being parched or having dry, chapped lips in a very dry climate. TCM views this as an imbalance where the body's yin - often associated with moisture and cooling - is depleted.... see more

Dryness Patterns That Can Lead to Wheezing

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Dry-Phlegm in the Lungs Wheezing, Dry cough, Scanty sputum, Shortness of breath, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Dry throat, Pale face... see more Bei Mu Gua Lou San
Detailed description of the cause

Lung

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

Lung Patterns That Can Lead to Wheezing

Common Symptoms: Shortness Of Breath Asthma Pale Face Sputum Stifling Sensation In The Chest Dizziness Dry Throat Coughing

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs Wheezing, Coughing, Pale face, Sputum, Stifling sensation in the chest, Shortness of breath, Discomfort when lying down, Nausea, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum, Asthma, Chest distension... see more Er Chen Tang
Dry-Phlegm in the Lungs Wheezing, Dry cough, Scanty sputum, Shortness of breath, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Dry throat, Pale face... see more Bei Mu Gua Lou San
Lung Yang Deficiency Wheezing, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Cold extremities, Spontaneous sweat, Frequent colds or flu, Pale face, Generalized fatigue, Shortness of breath, Absence of thirst, Weak voice... see more Gan Cao Gan Jiang Tang | Si Jun Zi Tang | Sheng Mai San
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs Wheezing, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Stifling sensation in the chest, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Head and body heaviness, Dizziness, Copious thick yellow sputum... see more Er Chen Tang | Wen Dan Tang | Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang | Qing Xin Li Ge Tang | Ren Shen Ge Jie San | Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin
Lung and Kidney Yin Deficiency with Empty Fire Wheezing, Coughing with blood streaked sputum, Dry throat, Hot palms and soles, Night sweats, Chronic bronchitis, Chronic pharyngitis, Spontaneous pneumothorax, Cor pulmonale, Silicosis, Pulmonary tuberculosis... see more Bai He Gu Jin Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Kidney

In TCM the Kidneys are regarded as the body's most fundamental reservoir of Essence, known as Jing, which influences growth, reproduction, and aging. They are not just organs for filtering blood, but a holistic system governing vital life forces. When the Kidneys malfunction in TCM, it can manifest as a variety of health issues, such as chronic fatigue, reproductive problems, imbalances in fluid metabolism leading to edema or dryness, lower back pain, and a sense of fear or insecurity.... see more

Kidney Patterns That Can Lead to Wheezing

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Lung and Kidney Yin Deficiency with Empty Fire Wheezing, Coughing with blood streaked sputum, Dry throat, Hot palms and soles, Night sweats, Chronic bronchitis, Chronic pharyngitis, Spontaneous pneumothorax, Cor pulmonale, Silicosis, Pulmonary tuberculosis... see more Bai He Gu Jin Tang

TCM Herbal Formulas for Wheezing

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, wheezing is often treated with specific formulas and herbs that target the underlying patterns. For the pattern of Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs, characterized by chest heaviness and difficulty in breathing, the formula Er Chen Tang is frequently used. This formula incorporates Crow-Dipper Rhizomes (Ban Xia) and Tangerine peel (Chen Pi), which are effective in transforming Phlegm and drying Dampness.

In the case of Dry-Phlegm in the Lungs, where patients experience a dry cough and scanty, sticky sputum, Bei Mu Gua Lou San is commonly recommended. This formula contains Fritillary Bulbs (Chuan Bei Mu), which is known for its ability to dispel phlegm and moisten the lungs, providing relief from dry cough.

Additionally, for Lung Yang Deficiency, which manifests as wheezing with cold extremities and fatigue, Gan Cao Gan Jiang Tang is often prescribed. This formula typically includes Dried ginger (Gan Jiang), recognized for its warming properties and ability to expel cold from the interior. These formulas and herbs are carefully selected based on the patient's specific TCM diagnosis to effectively alleviate wheezing symptoms.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address wheezing, organized by cause and by formula type.

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas that tonify qi
  • Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm
  • Formulas that clear wind-Cold
  • Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
  • Formulas that dispel phlegm
  • Formulas that warm yang and tonify
  • Formulas that warm interior cold
  • Formulas that clear heat and transform phlegm
  • Formulas that clear heat from the organs
  • Formulas that clear internal abscesses and sores
  • Formulas that clear lung-Heat

All Formulas Recommended for Wheezing Caused by Phlegm

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Er Chen Tang Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs, Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Bei Mu Gua Lou San Dry-Phlegm in the Lungs
Wen Dan Tang Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Qing Xin Li Ge Tang Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Ren Shen Ge Jie San Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Xiao Qing Long Tang Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm

All Formulas Recommended for Wheezing Caused by Heat

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Er Chen Tang Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Bai He Gu Jin Tang Lung and Kidney Yin Deficiency with Empty Fire
Wen Dan Tang Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Qing Xin Li Ge Tang Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Ren Shen Ge Jie San Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs

All Formulas Recommended for Wheezing Caused by Yang Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Gan Cao Gan Jiang Tang Lung Yang Deficiency
Si Jun Zi Tang Lung Yang Deficiency
Sheng Mai San Lung Yang Deficiency

All "formulas that tonify qi" recommended for wheezing

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Si Jun Zi Tang Lung Yang Deficiency
Sheng Mai San Lung Yang Deficiency
Ren Shen Ge Jie San Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs

All "formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm" recommended for wheezing

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Er Chen Tang Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs, Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Wen Dan Tang Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs

All "formulas that clear wind-Cold" recommended for wheezing

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Xiao Qing Long Tang Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm
Jin Fei Cao San Not applicable

Acupoints for Wheezing

TCM also incorporates acupuncture as part of its holistic approach. Effective acupoints for wheezing include Bulang KID-22 and Dazhong KID-4 in the Kidney Channel, which help in subduing rebellious Qi and strengthening the kidney's Qi reception. In the Lung Channel, points like Chize LU-5 and Jingqu LU-8 are used to clear lung heat and regulate Qi. These acupoints are selected based on their ability to directly influence the lung and kidney systems, which are crucial in the treatment of wheezing.

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

  • By Meridian
  • Kidney Channel
  • Lung Channel
  • Directing Vessel
  • Bladder Channel
  • Stomach Channel
  • Extra Points: Back (EX-B)
  • Large Intestine Channel
  • Small Intestine Channel
Taixi KID-3

Taixi KID-3

In the depression between the medial malleolus tip and Achilles tendon (Calcaneal tendon), level with the tip of the medial malleolus.

Dazhong KID-4

Dazhong KID-4

Posterior and inferior to the medial malleolus, in the depression medial to the Achilles tendon, superior to its insertion at the calcaneus.

Yindu KID-19

Yindu KID-19

4 cun above the umbilicus, 0.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Bulang KID-22

Bulang KID-22

In the 5th intercostal space, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Shenfeng KID-23

Shenfeng KID-23

In the 4th intercostal space, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Lingxu KID-24

Lingxu KID-24

In the 3rd intercostal space, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Shencang KID-25

Shencang KID-25

In the 2nd intercostal space, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Yuzhong KID-26

Yuzhong KID-26

In the 1st intercostal space, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Shufu KID-27

Shufu KID-27

In the depression on the lower border of the clavicle, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Zhongfu LU-1

Zhongfu LU-1

On the lateral aspect of the chest, in the 1st intercostal space, 6 cun lateral to the midline, 1 cun inferior to Yunmen LU-2. Below the acromial extremity of the clavicle, slightly medial to the lower border of the coracoid process.

Yunmen LU-2

Yunmen LU-2

On the antero-lateral aspect of the chest, below the lateral extremity of the clavicle, about 6 cun lateral to the anterior midline in the centre of the deltopectoral triangle.

Tianfu LU-3

Tianfu LU-3

On the medial aspect of the upper arm, 3 cun below the end of the axillary fold and 6 cun above Chize LU-5, in the depression on the lateral border of biceps muscle.

Chize LU-5

Chize LU-5

On the cubital crease, on the redial aspect of the biceps tendon. It can be easily identified when the elbow is slightly flexed.

Kongzui LU-6

Kongzui LU-6

On the palmar aspect of the forearm, on the line joining Taiyuan LU-9 and Chize LU-5, 7 cun above Taiyuan LU-9.

Lieque LU-7

Lieque LU-7

Above the styloid process of the radius, about 1.5 cun proximal to the wrist crease (wrist joint space) in a V-shaped depression.

Jingqu LU-8

Jingqu LU-8

1 cun proximal to the wrist crease (wrist joint space), in the depression on the radial side of the radial artery.

Taiyuan LU-9

Taiyuan LU-9

At the wrist crease (wrist joint space), in the depression on the radial aspect of the radial artery and ulnar to the tendon of the abductor pollicis longus muscle.

Jiuwei REN-15

Jiuwei REN-15

On the midline of the abdomen, 7 cun above the umbilicus and 1 cun below the sternocostal angle. This point is located at the tip of the xiphoid process, which is commonly known as ‘dove-tail’ in China, hence the name of the point.

Shanzhong REN-17

Shanzhong REN-17

On the midline of the chest, on the level of the 4th intercostal space or nipples.

Yutang REN-18

Yutang REN-18

On the midline of the chest, on the level of the 3rd intercostal space.

Huagai REN-20

Huagai REN-20

On the midline of the chest, on the level of the 1st intercostal space.

Xuanji REN-21

Xuanji REN-21

On the midline of the sternum, below the upper border of the manubrium sterni and midway between Huagai REN-20 and Tiantu REN-22.

Tiantu REN-22

Tiantu REN-22

In the centre of the suprasternal fossa. 0.5 cun superior to the sternum.

Lianquan REN-23

Lianquan REN-23

On the anterior midline of the neck, above the Adm's apple, in the depression at the upper border of the hyoid bone.

Feishu BL-13

Feishu BL-13

1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 3rd thoracic vertebra (T3).

Pohu BL-42

Pohu BL-42

3 cun (about 4 finger-breadths) lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 3rd thoracic vertebra (T3).

Gaohuangshu BL-43

Gaohuangshu BL-43

3 cun (about 4 finger-breadths) lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 4th thoracic vertebra (T4).

Shentang BL-44

Shentang BL-44

3 cun (about 4 finger-breadths) lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 5th thoracic vertebra (T5).

Renying ST-9

Renying ST-9

Level with the tip of Adam's apple, 1.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline, on the anterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle.

Qihu ST-13

Qihu ST-13

About 4 cun lateral to the anterior midline, below the midpoint of the clavicle.

Wuyi ST-15

Wuyi ST-15

In the 2nd intercostal space, on the mammillary line, 4 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Fenglong ST-40

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.

Dingchuan EX-B-1

Dingchuan EX-B-1

0.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 7th cervical vertebra (C7).

Futu LI-18

Futu LI-18

On the lateral side of the neck, level with the tip of Adam's apple, between the sternal head and clavicular head of sternocleidomastoid muscle.

Tianrong SI-17

Tianrong SI-17

Posterior to the angle of mandible, in the depression on the anterior border of sternocleidomastoid muscle.