Axillary hyperhidrosis?
Hello, doctor.
I have a question to ask.
I have a body that feels both hot and cold.
Whenever I take Siwu Decoction, I find it hard to sleep.
Many doctors have told me that my condition is like a volcanic eruption, with excessive internal heat, yet I feel very weak and am sensitive to cold.
My circulation is also poor.
Over the past few years, due to increased fatigue, I have noticed changes in my constitution.
I used to never sweat under my armpits, but in recent years, it has become increasingly severe.
Initially, it was just unsightly, but now it has become uncomfortable.
I have seen many websites suggesting surgical options from Western medicine, but I would like to know if I can seek treatment through Traditional Chinese Medicine.
I hope you can guide me.
Thank you.
Tiāntáng, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/04/30
Dr. Peng Peilun reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Hello: Based on your symptom description, it is possible that you are experiencing a condition of both Yin and Yang deficiency.
It is not advisable to excessively supplement or use cooling and bitter herbs; instead, a method of nourishing Yin and tonifying Yang should be employed to address the sensitivity to cold.
If the underarm sweating has a hereditary component, treatment with Traditional Chinese Medicine may not necessarily lead to improvement.
It is recommended that you visit a Traditional Chinese Medicine clinic where a practitioner can diagnose and treat you based on your age and the history of your underarm sweating symptoms.
This approach would be more appropriate.
Director of the Traditional Chinese Medicine Department, Department of Health, Executive Yuan, Peng Pei-Lun.
Reply Date: 2004/04/30
More Info
Managing underarm sweating, particularly when it is linked to a complex set of symptoms like yours, can be approached through Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Your description suggests a condition that may involve a combination of excess heat and deficiency, which is not uncommon in TCM diagnoses.
In TCM, sweating can be classified into different types based on the underlying causes. For someone like you, who experiences both sensations of heat and cold, it may indicate a disharmony between Yin and Yang. The symptoms you describe—feeling hot yet cold, experiencing poor circulation, and having increased sweating in the underarm area—suggest that your body may be struggling to maintain balance.
TCM Diagnosis and Treatment Approach
1. Diagnosis: A TCM practitioner would likely conduct a thorough assessment, including a detailed history of your symptoms, dietary habits, lifestyle, and emotional state. They may also check your pulse and look at your tongue, which are critical components of TCM diagnostics. Based on your symptoms, they might diagnose you with a condition such as "Yin Deficiency with Heat" or "Qi Deficiency."
2. Herbal Medicine: TCM often employs herbal remedies to address the root causes of sweating. For your condition, a formula that nourishes Yin while clearing heat might be beneficial. Common herbs used in such formulations include:
- Rehmannia (Sheng Di Huang): Nourishes Yin and clears heat.
- Lycium Fruit (Gou Qi Zi): Tonifies the liver and kidneys, benefiting Yin.
- Bai Shao (White Peony Root): Nourishes blood and alleviates pain, which may help with your discomfort.
- Huang Qin (Scutellaria): Clears heat and dries dampness, which can help with excessive sweating.
3. Acupuncture: This treatment modality can help regulate the body's energy flow (Qi) and restore balance. Specific acupuncture points may be targeted to help with sweating, improve circulation, and alleviate the feelings of heat and cold. Points like Shenmen (HT7) and Neiguan (PC6) may be used to calm the mind and regulate the heart, while points like Sanyinjiao (SP6) can help nourish Yin.
4. Dietary Adjustments: TCM places significant emphasis on diet. You may want to avoid spicy, greasy, and overly hot foods, as these can exacerbate heat in the body. Instead, focus on cooling foods such as:
- Cucumbers
- Watermelon
- Leafy greens
- Mung beans
5. Lifestyle Changes: Stress management techniques such as Tai Chi, Qi Gong, or meditation can help balance your energy and improve circulation. Regular, gentle exercise can also enhance your overall well-being and help manage symptoms.
6. Consultation with a TCM Practitioner: Given the complexity of your symptoms, it is advisable to consult with a licensed TCM practitioner who can provide a personalized treatment plan. They can tailor herbal prescriptions and acupuncture treatments specifically to your needs.
Conclusion
In summary, managing underarm sweating through TCM involves a holistic approach that addresses the underlying imbalances in your body. By focusing on nourishing Yin, clearing heat, and improving circulation, you may find relief from your symptoms. It is essential to work closely with a qualified TCM practitioner who can guide you through this process and monitor your progress. Remember, TCM is a gradual process, and patience is key to achieving lasting results.
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