Paralytic Ileusaccording to TCM

What is Paralytic Ileus?

Paralytic ileus, known within the medical community as intestinal atony or intestinal paralysis, represents a condition where there is a lack of movement in the intestines that prevents the passage of food through the digestive tract. This condition can lead to a buildup of food, gases, and fluids, causing discomfort, bloating, and potentially serious complications if not addressed promptly. Unlike mechanical obstruction, which is caused by a physical blockage, paralytic ileus results from disrupted nerve or muscle function within the intestinal walls, leading to a paralysis of intestinal movements.

How does TCM View Paralytic Ileus?

From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) standpoint, paralytic ileus is viewed through the lens of disharmony and imbalance within the body's energetic systems. TCM does not directly correlate to Western medical diagnoses but interprets symptoms like those of paralytic ileus as indicative of underlying patterns of disharmony.

These may involve Qi Stagnation, Dampness, Heat accumulation, or Blood Stasis, each affecting the smooth flow of Qi and Body Fluids through the digestive tract. Identifying the precise pattern is crucial in TCM, as it dictates the treatment strategy aimed at restoring balance, enhancing Qi flow, and facilitating the normal functioning of the intestines.

Causes of Paralytic Ileus According to TCM

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), paralytic ileus is viewed through a lens that focuses on the balance and flow of the body's vital energies. The Stagnation or imbalance of Qi, as well as the presence of Heat or Fire in the digestive system, are primary considerations. Specifically, a common cause identified in TCM is the excessive accumulation of Yang Fire in the stomach and intestines.

This excessive Fire can "burn" the body's fluids, leading to dryness and a subsequent lack of movement or function within the intestines. Addressing these imbalances involves not just alleviating symptoms but restoring harmony and flow to the body's Qi and cooling the excess Fire, thereby encouraging the natural movement of the intestines.

TCM Herbal Formulas for Paralytic Ileus

For the treatment of paralytic ileus, especially when associated with excessive Yang Fire in the stomach and intestines, TCM turns to specific herbal formulas designed to clear Heat, move Qi, and restore balance. Xiao Cheng Qi Tang is a pivotal formula in such cases, known for its effectiveness in purging the accumulated Heat and reinvigorating the movement of Qi within the digestive tract.

This approach directly targets the disruption caused by the excessive Yang Fire, facilitating the restoration of normal intestinal movement and function. Tailoring the treatment to the specific pattern of disharmony in the patient ensures a focused and effective therapeutic strategy that addresses both the symptoms and the underlying cause of paralytic ileus in TCM practice.

See more details below about Xiao Cheng Qi Tang, a herbal formula used to address paralytic ileus.