Phlegm-Dampness: Symptoms and Remedies in Traditional Chinese Medicine

Inquire about phlegm and dampness issues?

Hello Doctor: For the past two weeks, I have been feeling a sensation of something stuck in my throat, as if there is a foreign body present.
I often feel the urge to swallow or to burp.
Sometimes my stomach feels a bit bloated, and I occasionally experience gastroesophageal reflux, although I do not taste any acidity in my esophagus.
This sensation usually occurs when I lie down, and I can feel stomach acid reaching my throat.
My tongue sometimes has a whitish-yellow coating, which is not thick, and I notice indentations on the sides of my tongue that appear about every two to three days.
Upon waking, my nose, throat, and tongue feel dry, and sometimes I have a bitter taste.
My upper lip tends to be slightly swollen when I wake up, but it usually resolves within half an hour.
I would like to ask the doctor if these symptoms fluctuate, sometimes appearing and sometimes not, indicating inflammation or another condition in my body? Due to the pandemic, I generally go out only once a week, spending most of my time working in front of the computer, with very little exercise and minimal sweating, which makes me feel like my metabolism is poor and I am experiencing dry mouth and tongue.
I came across the term "phlegm-dampness" online, and I feel that my situation resembles that somewhat.
Is that the case, or could it be allergies? How can I improve this? This week I have been taking B vitamins and probiotics; will these types of supplements be effective for me? Thank you.

QQQ, 0~9 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/06/01

Dr. Lü Bingcheng reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Dear user,
Regarding the issues you raised, I have summarized them as follows: In the past two weeks, you have experienced a sensation of something stuck in your throat, mild gastric distension, and when lying down, you feel gastric fluid rising to your throat.
Sometimes your tongue has a white-yellow coating, which is not thick, and there are indentations on the sides of your tongue.
Upon waking, your nose, throat, and tongue feel dry, and sometimes there is a bitter taste.
Your upper lip may be slightly swollen, but this usually resolves within half an hour.
Additionally, you typically go out only once a week, spend most of your time working in front of a computer, exercise very little, sweat infrequently, and experience dry mouth and throat.
You found the term "phlegm-dampness" online and feel it somewhat resembles your condition.
Based on the information you provided, I personally believe that in addition to a phlegm-damp constitution, there may also be signs of heat and stagnation of Qi and blood.
However, since I have not personally examined you or conducted a thorough diagnosis (including observation, listening, inquiry, and pulse examination), I can only speculate about your general constitution based on limited information and cannot clearly identify the related organs, meridians, and the balance of Yin and Yang.
Therefore, I recommend that you consult a qualified Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner for a proper diagnosis and treatment to best safeguard your health.

Wishing you a speedy recovery and good health!

Reply Date: 2020/06/01

More Info

Understanding Phlegm-Dampness in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is essential for addressing various health issues, particularly those related to the respiratory and digestive systems. Based on your symptoms, it does seem like you may be experiencing a condition related to Phlegm-Dampness, which is a common pattern in TCM.

Phlegm-Dampness is characterized by a buildup of fluids in the body that can lead to various symptoms, including a sensation of fullness or heaviness, digestive issues, and respiratory discomfort. In your case, the feeling of a "lump" in your throat, the urge to swallow, and the sensation of gastric reflux without the sour taste are indicative of this condition. The presence of a white or yellow coating on your tongue, along with teeth marks, further supports this diagnosis, as these signs suggest a damp condition in the body.

Your lifestyle factors, such as limited physical activity and prolonged periods of sitting, can contribute to poor circulation and sluggish metabolism, which are often associated with Phlegm-Dampness. The fact that you experience dryness in your mouth and throat upon waking, along with a bitter taste, may indicate that there is an imbalance in your body fluids, possibly exacerbated by your sedentary lifestyle.

In TCM, Phlegm-Dampness can be treated through dietary adjustments, herbal remedies, and lifestyle changes. Here are some recommendations:
1. Dietary Changes: Avoid damp-producing foods such as dairy products, fried foods, and excessive sugar. Instead, focus on warm, cooked foods that are easy to digest, such as soups and stews. Incorporate foods that are known to help clear phlegm, such as ginger, garlic, and green onions.

2. Herbal Remedies: There are several herbal formulas in TCM that can help alleviate symptoms of Phlegm-Dampness. For example, Ban Xia Hou Po Tang is commonly used to address the sensation of a lump in the throat and digestive issues. Consult with a qualified TCM practitioner to find the right herbal formula for your specific condition.

3. Physical Activity: Regular exercise can help improve circulation and metabolism, which may alleviate some of your symptoms. Aim for activities that promote sweating, such as brisk walking, jogging, or yoga.

4. Hydration: Ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day to help maintain proper hydration and support your body's natural detoxification processes.

5. Stress Management: Since you mentioned that your symptoms may be related to stress from studying, consider incorporating mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, to help manage anxiety and improve your overall well-being.

Regarding the B vitamins and probiotics you are currently taking, these can be beneficial for overall health, particularly for supporting energy levels and gut health. However, they may not directly address the Phlegm-Dampness condition. It's essential to take a holistic approach, combining dietary changes, herbal remedies, and lifestyle adjustments for the best results.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, it may be wise to consult with a healthcare professional, either in TCM or Western medicine, to rule out any underlying conditions and receive tailored treatment. Remember, addressing the root cause of your symptoms is crucial for long-term relief and improved health.

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