Constitution [Issue]
Hello, Doctor: My body has an imbalance of hot and cold.
If I consume tonifying or heating foods, I immediately develop painful large pimples on my scalp.
If I eat too many cold or cooling foods, I break out in hives and experience severe itching all over my hands and feet.
I have seen six different traditional Chinese medicine practitioners, and although I have taken their prescribed medications for over a month each time, none have been effective.
I am feeling very discouraged as these symptoms have persisted for two years.
Which specialty should I consult, and how should I adjust my diet? Thank you for your response.
Xiaoyun, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/04/03
Dr. Chu Baiqing reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Hello, Xiaoyun: Each person's constitution cannot be simply categorized as cold or hot; it is usually the result of years of accumulation.
Adjusting your condition through medication requires considerable patience.
I suggest starting with dietary adjustments and emotional regulation.
Typically, it is best to avoid overly hot or cold foods, and maintaining emotional stability can help keep your constitution in a more balanced state, even without medication.
You may want to consult a physician for a comprehensive assessment of your constitution.
Thank you for your inquiry.
Sincerely, Dr.
Chu Boqing, Director of Traditional Chinese Medicine Internal Medicine.
Reply Date: 2007/04/03
More Info
Balancing body temperature and managing persistent skin issues can be quite challenging, especially when symptoms like acne and urticaria (hives) arise in response to dietary choices. Your experience of developing painful acne after consuming warming foods and hives after cold foods suggests a significant sensitivity to temperature changes, both internally and externally. This condition may be indicative of an underlying imbalance in your body's thermoregulation and immune response.
Given that you have already consulted multiple traditional Chinese medicine practitioners without satisfactory results, it may be beneficial to explore other medical specialties. Dermatology would be a logical choice, as dermatologists specialize in skin conditions and can provide a comprehensive evaluation of your symptoms. Additionally, an allergist may be helpful in determining if there are specific allergens or sensitivities contributing to your hives and skin reactions.
From a dietary perspective, it is essential to maintain a balanced intake of foods that support your body's needs without triggering adverse reactions. Here are some general guidelines that may help:
1. Identify Trigger Foods: Keeping a food diary can help you track what you eat and how your body reacts. This can assist you in identifying specific foods that exacerbate your symptoms.
2. Moderation is Key: Instead of completely avoiding warming or cooling foods, try to consume them in moderation. For example, if you notice that spicy or rich foods lead to acne, consider reducing their intake rather than eliminating them entirely.
3. Focus on Anti-Inflammatory Foods: Incorporate foods that have anti-inflammatory properties, such as fatty fish (rich in omega-3 fatty acids), leafy greens, nuts, and seeds. These can help reduce inflammation in the body and may alleviate some skin issues.
4. Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining skin health. Drinking adequate water can help flush out toxins and keep your skin hydrated.
5. Consider Probiotics: Probiotics can support gut health, which is closely linked to skin health. Foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and other fermented foods may help balance your gut microbiome.
6. Consult a Nutritionist: A registered dietitian or nutritionist can provide personalized dietary advice based on your specific symptoms and health history. They can help you create a balanced meal plan that minimizes triggers while ensuring you receive adequate nutrition.
7. Stress Management: Stress can exacerbate skin conditions, so incorporating stress-reducing practices such as yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises may be beneficial.
8. Topical Treatments: Depending on the severity of your skin issues, topical treatments may be necessary. A dermatologist can recommend appropriate creams or medications to manage acne and hives effectively.
9. Consider Hormonal Factors: If your symptoms are cyclical or related to your menstrual cycle, it may be worth discussing hormonal imbalances with a healthcare provider.
10. Follow-Up: Since your symptoms have persisted for two years, regular follow-up with healthcare providers is essential. Persistent skin issues can sometimes indicate underlying health conditions that require further investigation.
In conclusion, while balancing body temperature and managing skin issues can be complex, a multifaceted approach involving dietary adjustments, medical consultations, and lifestyle changes can lead to improvements. It is crucial to remain proactive in seeking solutions and to work closely with healthcare professionals who can guide you through this process.
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