Unexplained Weight Loss and Neurological Symptoms: Seeking Answers in Traditional Chinese Medicine

Medication Inquiry~

Weight has inexplicably dropped from 70 kg to 48 kg within six months (not due to intentional weight loss!).
Severe pain and weakness in the right leg, foot, and lower back, along with frequent urination.
At the same time, severe pain started in the right upper back.
I noticed slight temperature changes in my right hand; the middle, ring, and little fingers of my right hand cannot extend.
The weakness in my right foot has worsened.
I went to a neurology clinic at a medical center, and the doctor was taken aback...
Right-sided hemiparesis (still able to slightly move the thumb and index finger, but the foot drags on the ground).
There is a noticeable temperature difference in the right hand and foot, the skin has turned a bluish-purple color, and the joints appear dark.
The right side of my neck and face feels tight, and my expression is stiff with an unknown disease etiology (not due to stroke, hyperventilation, or autonomic nervous system disorder).
Consultations with psychiatry, immunology, and thoracic specialists found no issues...
The night before discharge, I suddenly felt pressure and tightness in my chest, severe pain in my back, shortness of breath, and overall weakness.
After an emergency ECG and administration of NTG, symptoms alleviated, but due to the aforementioned symptoms and cardiac and pulmonary issues, I was readmitted; the right side of my body exhibited hypertonicity and opisthotonos, yet the cause remains unidentified.
Upon discharge, I was prescribed: Pletaal, Mecobalamin, Ubiheart, Silvinol, Trileptal, F.C.
Sennosides, Tizalin, Propranolol, and a can of NTG...
Medical advice: keep two oxygen tanks at home.
The left side of my body is completely normal, while the doctor confirmed that the right side is abnormal, showing symptoms of central nervous system degeneration (or pathology), and there may also be cardiovascular issues that cannot be explained...
Symptoms significantly improve with increased environmental temperature; the lower the temperature, the worse the condition! I would like to ask the traditional Chinese medicine doctor if this is caused by blocked blood flow (qi stagnation and blood stasis)? Can a normal diet and lifestyle suddenly lead to this? The doctor suggested seeking traditional Chinese medicine, so I visited a clinic and received herbal medicine (the doctor recommended that I could also use liquid medications).
I was prescribed Gua Lou Jiao Bai Ban Xia Decoction and Sheng Mai Yin, two types of herbal powders (take 2-3 packets at a time, first address the cardiovascular issues).
The doctor said that if necessary, I could take Western medicine (NTG) first and then follow with herbal powder; will there be any interactions between these medications? (I did not use the liquid medication because I am already taking many pills, and the timing is quite complicated.)

Yuan, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/01

Dr. Yang Junkui reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

1.
Based on your description, it appears to be a central nervous system issue, which subsequently led to problems with the heart and right-sided circulation.
It is recommended to consult a neurosurgeon at a medical center.
From a traditional Chinese medicine perspective, it is certainly possible that this is caused by stagnation of Qi and blood in the central nervous system.
It is advisable to first seek a definitive diagnosis from a Western medicine practitioner, and then consider traditional Chinese medicine for treatment.
2.
In addition to maintaining a normal diet and lifestyle, it is also important to consider whether there is a family history of related conditions.
3.
Western and Chinese medications can be taken two hours apart without any interactions.

Reply Date: 2016/04/01

More Info

Unexplained weight loss and neurological symptoms can be alarming and complex, especially when traditional medical evaluations yield inconclusive results. In your case, the significant weight loss from 70 kg to 48 kg over six months, combined with severe pain, weakness, and neurological symptoms on the right side of your body, suggests a multifaceted issue that may involve both neurological and vascular components.

From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, the symptoms you describe could indeed be interpreted as signs of "Qi stagnation" and "blood stasis." TCM posits that when the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood is obstructed, it can lead to pain, weakness, and other systemic issues. The fact that your symptoms improve with increased warmth and worsen in colder conditions may indicate a deficiency in Yang energy, which is associated with warmth and activity in the body.
The TCM prescriptions you received, such as Guo Lao Jiu Bai Ban Xia Tang and Sheng Mai San, are aimed at invigorating blood circulation and enhancing Qi. Guo Lao Jiu Bai Ban Xia Tang is often used to address phlegm and Qi stagnation, while Sheng Mai San is known for tonifying Qi and nourishing the heart. These formulations may help alleviate some of your symptoms by promoting better circulation and reducing stagnation.

Regarding your concern about potential interactions between the Western medications you are taking and the TCM herbs, it is essential to approach this with caution. While TCM herbs can be beneficial, they may also interact with Western medications, potentially altering their effectiveness or leading to adverse effects. For instance, medications like NTG (nitroglycerin) are used to manage cardiovascular issues, and combining them with certain herbs could theoretically enhance or inhibit their effects. It is crucial to discuss this with both your TCM practitioner and your Western medicine doctor to ensure that your treatment plan is safe and effective.

In terms of lifestyle and dietary considerations, maintaining a balanced diet rich in nutrients can support your overall health and recovery. Foods that nourish the blood and Qi, such as leafy greens, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats, may be beneficial. Additionally, practices such as acupuncture, Tai Chi, or Qi Gong could help improve your Qi flow and overall well-being.

Given the complexity of your symptoms and the lack of a clear diagnosis, it may also be beneficial to seek a multidisciplinary approach. This could involve consultations with specialists in neurology, cardiology, and TCM to create a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs.
In summary, while TCM may offer valuable insights and treatments for your condition, it is essential to coordinate care between your TCM practitioner and your Western medicine providers to ensure a holistic and safe approach to your health. Your symptoms are significant, and continued monitoring and adjustment of your treatment plan will be crucial as you navigate this challenging situation.

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