Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosisaccording to TCM
Symptom families: Vascular and Blood Disorders, Vein Conditions, Brain Disorders
What is cerebral venous sinus thrombosis?
Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a rare form of stroke where blood clots form in the brain's venous sinuses. This prevents blood from draining out of the brain, leading to increased pressure which can cause headaches, blurred vision, fainting, or other neurological symptoms. If not promptly treated, CVST can lead to serious complications, including brain damage and death. Recognizing the signs and understanding the pathology of CVST are critical for timely diagnosis and management.
How does TCM view cerebral venous sinus thrombosis?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) interprets cerebral venous sinus thrombosis quite differently from Western medicine. TCM suggests that CVST results not from the clot itself but from underlying imbalances in the body’s energetic systems.
Key to this perspective is the concept of Qi Stagnation and Blood Stasis, where the vital energy of the body and the blood do not flow freely. This holistic approach stresses identifying and correcting the root causes of the energy disruption to effectively treat CVST.
Causes of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis according to TCM
In the framework of TCM, cerebral venous sinus thrombosis is often linked to specific disruptions in the body's harmonious state. Two primary patterns typically associated with CVST are Liver Qi Stagnation as well as Phlegm and Qi Stagnation. Liver Qi Stagnation involves the disruption of energy flow, which can lead to emotional stress and hormonal imbalances affecting blood flow.
Conversely, Phlegm and Qi Stagnation describes a scenario where Phlegm (a thick, sticky fluid) and stagnant Qi obstruct the brain's channels, impeding proper blood circulation and leading to symptoms like CVST. These patterns highlight the intricate relationship between energetic disturbances and physical symptoms in TCM.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis
To address the complex patterns underlying cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, TCM employs specific formulas and herbs aimed at promoting the movement of Qi and dissolving stasis. A key formula recommended for conditions like CVST is Yue Ju Wan, which includes Atractylodes Rhizomes (Bai Zhu).
This formula is known for its properties to alleviate Liver Qi Stagnation and clear Phlegm and Qi Stagnation. By targeting these specific imbalances, Yue Ju Wan helps restore the free flow of Qi and blood, crucial for relieving the symptoms and preventing the progression of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis.
See more details below about Yue Ju Wan, a herbal formula used to address cerebral venous sinus thrombosis.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that promote qi movement
Formulas that promote Qi movement
Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis can be treated by these formulas if it stems from stagnation or imbalance in the flow of Qi, the vital life energy, within the body.
One such formula is Yue Ju Wan, with atractylodes rhizome as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
- Herbs that invigorate the blood
Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency
Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis can be treated by these herbs when stemming from a lack of vital energy or Qi, helping to boost energy and overall vitality.
One such herb is Atractylodes Rhizomes (Bai Zhu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, like Yue Ju Wan.
Herbs that invigorate the Blood
Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis can be treated by these herbs when it stems from stagnation or poor circulation of blood, helping to improve blood flow and alleviate related discomfort.
One such herb is Szechuan Lovage Roots (Chuan Xiong), a key herb in some formulas recommended for cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, like Yue Ju Wan.