Palpitations, Bitter Taste, and Kidney Health in Traditional Chinese Medicine

My symptoms?

Doctor, I have been experiencing paroxysmal tachycardia frequently, and recently my mouth has been feeling bitter for some unknown reason.
It's not due to any foreign object or consuming something unclean.
Could you explain why my mouth feels bitter? I've heard that it might be related to excessive internal heat or possibly linked to the heart.
Additionally, I have a tendency towards constipation.
Are these issues connected? What should I pay attention to regarding my diet and daily routine? Also, I recently heard someone say that masturbation can lead to kidney failure.
Could you clarify what constitutes kidney failure and whether masturbation is something to be avoided? Thank you for your response, and I wish you all the best.

Huang Zai, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/08/27

Dr. Zhuang Yihui reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Paroxysmal tachycardia falls under the category of palpitations in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
From the TCM perspective, the occurrence of palpitations is often related to the following factors:
1.
Emotional stimuli: Sudden encounters with fear, prolonged feelings of depression, or excessive sorrow can lead to palpitations.
2.
Improper diet and lifestyle: These can generate phlegm and heat, transforming into fire, or phlegm-heat disturbing the heart, resulting in palpitations.
Additionally, excessive fatigue can damage the spleen, leading to deficiency of heart blood, which may also cause palpitations.
3.
External pathogens: When pathogens obstruct the heart vessels, the circulation of heart blood is hindered, leading to palpitations.
4.
Weak constitution: A naturally weak constitution, prolonged illness, excessive exertion, or blood loss can result in deficiency of qi, blood, yin, and yang, causing the heart to lack nourishment, which in turn leads to palpitations.
Based on your description, it is possible that improper diet has led to increased stomach fire, resulting in symptoms such as bitter mouth and constipation.
It is advisable to drink more water, avoid cold and fried foods, and engage in appropriate exercise, which may be helpful.
Regarding the reasonable range of masturbation, there is a formula based on age multiplied by nine; for example, for a 30-year-old, 3*9=27, indicating that seven times within two weeks is acceptable, for reference only.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2003/08/27

More Info

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), symptoms such as palpitations, a bitter taste in the mouth, and constipation can be interconnected and may reflect underlying imbalances in the body's organ systems, particularly the heart and kidneys.
Palpitations, or irregular heartbeats, can be attributed to several factors in TCM. They are often associated with a deficiency of the heart's Qi (vital energy) or blood, leading to insufficient nourishment of the heart. This can manifest as feelings of anxiety, restlessness, and even a bitter taste in the mouth. The bitter taste you are experiencing may be linked to excess heat or fire in the body, which can arise from various sources, including emotional stress, poor dietary habits, or lifestyle choices. In TCM, the heart is closely related to the liver, and when the liver Qi is stagnant or the liver fire is excessive, it can lead to symptoms like a bitter taste and palpitations.

Constipation is another symptom that can be linked to these issues. In TCM, it is often seen as a result of insufficient fluid or Qi in the intestines, or it may be due to heat accumulation in the body. The connection between your heart and kidney health is also significant; the kidneys are considered the source of Yin (cooling, moistening energy) in the body, and a deficiency in kidney Yin can lead to an excess of Yang (heat), which may exacerbate symptoms like palpitations and a bitter taste.

Regarding your question about diet and lifestyle, it is essential to focus on a balanced diet that supports both heart and kidney health. Incorporating foods that nourish the heart and calm the mind, such as whole grains, leafy greens, and legumes, can be beneficial. Avoiding excessive spicy, greasy, or overly sweet foods is advisable, as these can contribute to heat in the body. Staying hydrated and consuming foods rich in fiber can help alleviate constipation.

As for the concern about masturbation and its effects on kidney health, TCM views this subject with nuance. While excessive sexual activity is believed to deplete kidney essence (Jing), moderation is key. The concept of "failing the kidneys" typically refers to overindulgence leading to a depletion of vital energy, which can manifest in various symptoms, including fatigue, weakness, and potential reproductive issues. However, occasional and moderate sexual activity is generally considered normal and healthy.

In summary, the symptoms you are experiencing—palpitations, a bitter taste, and constipation—can be interconnected and may reflect imbalances in your heart and kidney health according to TCM principles. It is advisable to consult with a qualified TCM practitioner who can provide a comprehensive diagnosis and personalized treatment plan, which may include dietary recommendations, herbal remedies, and lifestyle adjustments to restore balance and improve your overall well-being. Additionally, addressing emotional stress through practices such as meditation or gentle exercise can also be beneficial in managing these symptoms.

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