Dampness in traditional Chinese medicine theory refers to the imbalance in the metabolism of body fluids, leading to the accumulation of damp evil. Typical manifestations include abdominal edema and fat accumulation, but its influence goes far beyond this. Heavy dampness is also reflected in various symptoms:
On the skin, heavy dampness may lead to eczema, itching, acne, and skin color problems such as dullness, oiliness, and enlarged pores. When these problems recur, consider whether they are due to dampness.
In the digestive system, dampness affects spleen and stomach function, causing decreased appetite, unusual taste, halitosis, bloating, diarrhea, and other discomforts. These symptoms of indigestion may also be a sign of heavy dampness.
Emotional and mental states are also disrupted by dampness, manifesting as emotional fluctuations, irritability, restlessness, sleep disturbances, and memory decline, all potential indirect effects of dampness.
To preliminarily assess internal dampness, pay attention to the following points: – Changes in tongue coating, such as becoming thick, white or yellow in color, or even having a pasty feeling. – Characteristics of urine, including low volume, dark yellow or cloudy color, reflecting obstruction in the body’s water metabolism. – Feeling of heaviness, lack of vitality, limbs easily feeling burdened, are common experiences of heavy dampness.
To address heavy dampness, adjustments can be made in three aspects: – Avoid consuming raw, cold, greasy, and spicy foods, and consume more foods that promote fluid drainage and dampness elimination, such as red beans, coix seeds, and winter melon. – Increase physical activity, especially outdoor aerobic exercise, to help the body sweat, accelerate metabolism, and eliminate excess dampness. – Chinese herbal therapy based on individual constitution, consult a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner to select suitable dampness-expelling herbs such as white atractylodes, poria cocos, etc.
In general, heavy dampness not only causes abdominal distension but also affects various aspects including skin, digestive system, emotions, and more. Pay attention to the above symptoms in daily life and make corresponding lifestyle changes to reduce the adverse effects of dampness on health, and maintain overall well-being.
