Rapid Breathaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Respiratory Disorders and Symptoms
Did you mean? Shortness Of Breath
What is rapid breath?
Rapid breath, also known as fast breathing, rapid respiration, or tachypnea, is a condition characterized by an abnormally high breathing rate. This can occur due to various reasons, including physical exertion, anxiety, respiratory infections, or chronic pulmonary conditions. Rapid breath can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, chest pain, and shortness of breath. It is important to identify the underlying cause of this condition to provide appropriate treatment and prevent potential complications.
How does TCM view rapid breath?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), rapid breath is seen as a manifestation of underlying disharmonies within the body's systems. TCM practitioners believe that this symptom can result from various patterns of disharmony, such as Heat in the pericardium or Phlegm fire obstructing the Lungs. Unlike Western medicine, which often focuses on treating the symptom directly, TCM aims to identify and address the root cause of the imbalance. Accurate diagnosis of the specific pattern is crucial for effective treatment, as different patterns require different therapeutic approaches.
Root Causes of Rapid Breath in TCM
One common TCM pattern associated with rapid breath is Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium. This pattern is characterized by symptoms such as rapid breath, palpitations, flushed face, bitter taste in the mouth, noisy breathing, restlessness, insomnia, vivid dreaming, and anxiety. Phlegm Fire can result from a combination of emotional stress, poor dietary habits, and the accumulation of heat and phlegm in the pericardium, obstructing the normal flow of qi and leading to respiratory distress.
Another relevant pattern is Kidneys failing to receive Qi, marked by symptoms like rapid breath, exertional dyspnea, weak respiratory function, difficulty breathing in, chronic coughing, asthma, spontaneous sweating, cold extremities, and facial edema. This pattern often arises from chronic respiratory issues, aging, or overexertion, which weaken the kidneys' ability to grasp and descend qi effectively. Understanding these patterns helps in tailoring treatments that address the root causes of rapid breath in TCM.
Explore below more details about what might cause Rapid breath according to TCM.
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 Rapid Breath
Common Symptoms: Palpitations Stifling Sensation In The Chest Bitter Taste In The Mouth Insomnia Thirst Restlessness Anxiety Vivid Dreaming
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Pericardium Fire | Rapid breath, Palpitations, Stifling sensation in the chest, Bitter taste in the mouth, Insomnia, Thirst, Mouth ulcers, Tongue ulcers, Cardiac burning sensation, Restlessness, Anxiety, Feeling of heat, Vivid dreaming, Excessive menstruation... see more | Xie Xin Tang | Zi Xue Dan |
| Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium | Rapid breath, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression, Stifling sensation in the chest, Chest pain... see more | Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Zhi Bao Dan | Hui Chun Dan |
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 Rapid Breath
Common Symptoms: Palpitations Stifling Sensation In The Chest Bitter Taste In The Mouth Insomnia Thirst Restlessness Anxiety Vivid Dreaming
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Pericardium Fire | Rapid breath, Palpitations, Stifling sensation in the chest, Bitter taste in the mouth, Insomnia, Thirst, Mouth ulcers, Tongue ulcers, Cardiac burning sensation, Restlessness, Anxiety, Feeling of heat, Vivid dreaming, Excessive menstruation... see more | Xie Xin Tang | Zi Xue Dan |
| Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium | Rapid breath, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression, Stifling sensation in the chest, Chest pain... see more | Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Zhi Bao Dan | Hui Chun Dan |
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 Rapid Breath
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium | Rapid breath, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression, Stifling sensation in the chest, Chest pain... see more | Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Zhi Bao Dan | Hui Chun Dan |
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 Rapid Breath
Common Symptoms: Palpitations Stifling Sensation In The Chest Bitter Taste In The Mouth Insomnia Thirst Restlessness Anxiety Vivid Dreaming
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Pericardium Fire | Rapid breath, Palpitations, Stifling sensation in the chest, Bitter taste in the mouth, Insomnia, Thirst, Mouth ulcers, Tongue ulcers, Cardiac burning sensation, Restlessness, Anxiety, Feeling of heat, Vivid dreaming, Excessive menstruation... see more | Xie Xin Tang | Zi Xue Dan |
| Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium | Rapid breath, Palpitations, Flushed face, Bitter taste in the mouth, Noisy breathing, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Incoherent or confused speech, Confusion, Rash behaviour, Uncontrolled laughing or crying, Verbal aggression, Talking to oneself, Depression, Dull shallow face, Aggression, Stifling sensation in the chest, Chest pain... see more | Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Zhi Bao Dan | Hui Chun Dan |
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 Rapid Breath
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Kidneys failing to receive Qi | Rapid breath, Exertional dyspnea, Weak respiratory, Difficulty breathing in, Chronic coughing, Asthma, Spontaneous sweat, Cold extremities, Facial edema, Emaciation, Low energy, Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Clear urination... see more | You Gui Wan | Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang | Ren Shen Ge Jie San |
TCM Herbal Formulas for Rapid Breath
TCM treatment for rapid breath involves using specific formulas and herbs tailored to the patient’s underlying pattern. For Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium, a commonly recommended formula is Wen Dan Tang. This formula includes key herbs such as Crow-Dipper Rhizomes (Ban Xia), which help dry Dampness and transform Phlegm, alleviating symptoms like rapid breath and palpitations.
For Kidneys failing to receive Qi, You Gui Wan is often used. This formula contains Prepared Aconite (Zhi Fu Zi), which helps warm yang and tonify the kidneys, improving the body's ability to grasp and descend qi. Another effective formula for this pattern is Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang, which includes Perilla seeds (Zi Su Zi) to address rebellious qi and support respiratory function. The choice of formula depends on the specific pattern diagnosed, highlighting the personalized nature of TCM treatments. Through careful diagnosis and tailored treatments, TCM offers a comprehensive approach to managing rapid breath and improving overall well-being.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address rapid breath, organized by cause and by formula type.
- By Cause
- By Formula Type
- Mind Disturbance
- Heat
- Phlegm
- View More Causes
- Formulas that clear heat and open sensory orifices
- Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm
- Formulas that warm yang and tonify
- Formulas for a rebellious qi
- Formulas that tonify qi
- Formulas that clear heat and resolve toxicity
Top Formula for Mind Disturbance:
Xie Xin Tang
Suitable for Mind Disturbance patterns that may cause rapid breath, such as Pericardium Fire
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Rapid Breath Caused by Mind Disturbance
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Xie Xin Tang | Pericardium Fire |
| Zi Xue Dan | Pericardium Fire |
| Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
| Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
| Zhi Bao Dan | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
| Hui Chun Dan | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
Top Formula for Heat:
Xie Xin Tang
Suitable for Heat patterns that may cause rapid breath, such as Pericardium Fire
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Rapid Breath Caused by Heat
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Xie Xin Tang | Pericardium Fire |
| Zi Xue Dan | Pericardium Fire |
| Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
| Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
| Zhi Bao Dan | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
| Hui Chun Dan | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
Top Formula for Phlegm:
Wen Dan Tang
Suitable for Phlegm patterns that may cause rapid breath, such as Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Rapid Breath Caused by Phlegm
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
| Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
| Zhi Bao Dan | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
| Hui Chun Dan | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
Formulas that clear Heat and open sensory orifices
These formulas are suitable for some rapid breath-causing patterns like Pericardium Fire.
One such formula is Zi Xue Dan, with water buffalo horn as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that clear heat and open sensory orifices" recommended for rapid breath
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Zi Xue Dan | Pericardium Fire |
| Zhi Bao Dan | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
| Hui Chun Dan | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
Formulas that dry Dampness and transform Phlegm
These formulas are suitable for some rapid breath-causing patterns like Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium.
One such formula is Wen Dan Tang, with crow-dipper rhizome as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm" recommended for rapid breath
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
| Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang | Phlegm Fire harassing the Pericardium |
Formulas that warm Yang and tonify
These formulas are suitable for some rapid breath-causing patterns like Kidneys failing to receive Qi.
One such formula is You Gui Wan, with prepared aconite as a key herb.
Formulas for a rebellious Qi
These formulas are suitable for some rapid breath-causing patterns like Kidneys failing to receive Qi.
One such formula is Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang, with perilla seeds as a key herb.
Formulas that tonify Qi
These formulas are suitable for some rapid breath-causing patterns like Kidneys failing to receive Qi.
One such formula is Ren Shen Ge Jie San, with tokay geckos as a key herb.
Formulas that clear Heat and resolve toxicity
These formulas are suitable for some rapid breath-causing patterns like Pericardium Fire.
One such formula is Xie Xin Tang, with rhubarb as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Rapid Breath
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address rapid breath, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Herbs that warm the interior and/or expel cold
- Tonic herbs for yang deficiency
- Warm herbs that transform phlegm and stop cough
- Herbs that cool the blood
- Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
- Purgative herbs that drain downward
- Herbs that pacify internal liver wind and stop tremors
- Herbs that open the orifices
Herbs that warm the Interior and/or expel Cold
Rapid breath can be treated by these herbs if it is due to internal coldness or deficient Yang energy, working to warm the body and dispel cold.
One such herb is Prepared Aconite (Zhi Fu Zi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for rapid breath, like You Gui Wan.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that warm the Interior and/or expel Cold" recommended for rapid breath
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Prepared Aconite (Zhi Fu Zi) | You Gui Wan |
| Cinnamon Bark (Rou Gui) | You Gui Wan |
Tonic herbs for Yang Deficiency
Rapid breath can be treated by these herbs in situations of diminished Yang energy, aiming to warm and activate the body's functions.
One such herb is Deer Antler Glue (Lu Jiao Jiao), a key herb in some formulas recommended for rapid breath, like You Gui Wan.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Tonic herbs for Yang Deficiency" recommended for rapid breath
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Deer Antler Glue (Lu Jiao Jiao) | You Gui Wan |
| Tokay Geckos (Ge Jie) | Ren Shen Ge Jie San |
Warm herbs that transform Phlegm and stop Cough
Rapid breath can be treated by these herbs when it results from phlegm due to cold deficiency, aiming to warm the lungs and dissolve phlegm accumulation.
One such herb is Crow-Dipper Rhizomes (Ban Xia), a key herb in some formulas recommended for rapid breath, like Wen Dan Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Warm herbs that transform Phlegm and stop Cough" recommended for rapid breath
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Crow-Dipper Rhizomes (Ban Xia) | Wen Dan Tang | Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang |
| Perilla Seeds (Zi Su Zi) | Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang |
Herbs that cool the Blood
Rapid breath can be treated by these herbs when it is a consequence of excess heat in the blood, helping to cool and detoxify the blood.
One such herb is Water Buffalo Horns (Shui Niu Jiao), a key herb in some formulas recommended for rapid breath, like Zi Xue Dan.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that cool the Blood" recommended for rapid breath
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Water Buffalo Horns (Shui Niu Jiao) | Zi Xue Dan | Zhi Bao Dan |
| Ox Gallstones (Niu Huang) | Hui Chun Dan |
Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency
Rapid breath 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 Ginseng (Ren Shen), a key herb in some formulas recommended for rapid breath, like Ren Shen Ge Jie San.
Purgative herbs that drain downward
Rapid breath can be treated by these herbs in cases of severe constipation or internal heat, using strong downward movement to purge accumulation.
One such herb is Rhubarb (Da Huang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for rapid breath, like Xie Xin Tang.
Herbs that pacify Internal Liver Wind and stop Tremors
Rapid breath can be treated by these herbs when caused by internal wind from Liver disharmony, often manifesting in symptoms like spasms or tremors.
One such herb is Saiga Antelope's Horns (Ling Yang Jiao), a key herb in some formulas recommended for rapid breath, like Zi Xue Dan.
Herbs that open the Orifices
Rapid breath can be treated by these herbs if it's a result of blockages in the body's sensory orifices, aiding in restoring clarity and consciousness.
One such herb is Musk (She Xiang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for rapid breath, like Zi Xue Dan.