Question
I have been searching for a method to distinguish between Yang Deficiency and Dampness and Dampness-Encumbered Spleen Yang. I’ve always wanted to understand the causal relationship between the two because it is vital for my treatment.
Answer
In cases of Yang Deficiency and Dampness, the initial manifestation is Yang deficiency symptoms such as cold hands and feet, preference for warm drinks, loose stools, and clear urine. Subsequently, due to reasons like catching a cold or excessive consumption of cold drinks, dampness invades the body, leading to dampness disturbing the Spleen and Stomach. At this point, symptoms such as lack of energy, decreased appetite, reduced food intake, loose and sticky stools, white greasy tongue coating, and a weak and slippery pulse may appear. The focus of treatment is to warm the Yang and transform dampness. In cases of Dampness-Encumbered Spleen Yang, the Spleen Yang is not weak or only slightly weak. After being affected by severe dampness, patients directly exhibit symptoms such as lack of energy, decreased appetite, reduced food intake, loose and sticky stools, white greasy tongue coating, and a slippery pulse. However, patients usually do not experience significant aversion to cold.