The term “dampness,” often mentioned in traditional Chinese medicine, does not have a corresponding concept in Western medicine. Understanding the manifestations of dampness is particularly important for self-health assessment. Here are some common signs of excessive dampness to help with self-checking.
Bowell movements reflect the condition of dampness: If stools are consistently loose, difficult to form, and even stick to the toilet making them hard to flush, requiring more toilet paper than usual, this may be a sign of excessive dampness. Feeling uncomfortable after bowel movements is also one of them.
Hair and scalp issues: Excessive dampness can cause hair to become oily quickly; if not washed for two days, it appears greasy, and in severe cases, it may lead to seborrheic hair loss, along with a feeling of heaviness in the head and mental fatigue.
Facial oiliness and acne: Under the influence of dampness, the face tends to become oily, leaving traces when wiped with tissue, and stubborn pimples may easily develop and are difficult to resolve quickly, affecting appearance.
Physical symptoms: If upon waking, you notice slight swelling in the calves that does not subside shortly after, or feel overall fatigue, it may indicate that dampness is affecting fluid metabolism.
Oral and digestive abnormalities: Feeling nauseous while brushing teeth, frequently sensing phlegm in the throat that is hard to clear, along with poor appetite accompanied by bad breath, are all related to dampness.
Weight control issues: Dampness can slow fat metabolism, leading to toxin accumulation, making weight loss difficult and even increasing the risk of obesity.
There are various methods to improve dampness:
Soaking feet in hot water with moxa and ginger can help disperse dampness.
High-intensity exercises such as hiking and swimming can accelerate metabolism and promote fluid elimination.
Maintain a dry living environment and avoid activities in damp conditions, such as sleeping on the ground or wearing un-dried clothes.
Adjust your diet to include foods with damp-dispersing effects, like job’s tears and adzuki bean porridge. However, attention should be paid to one’s constitution; those with a cold constitution should choose suitable alternatives.
Small details in daily life are also important: keep indoor ventilation, avoid excessive cold foods, protect against rain on rainy days, and dry wet hair promptly. Adhering to healthy lifestyle habits is key to effectively dispelling dampness and maintaining health.
