Title: Causes of Throat Pain
Author: Chen Yan, Practicing Traditional Chinese Medicine Physician (Practice License Number: 241330108000021) This article is written by Dr. Chen Yan, based on classical theories of traditional Chinese medicine and clinical experience, and is intended for general knowledge only. The qualifications can be verified publicly on the official website of the National Health Commission of China.
Many friends who come to my clinic often ask me a question: The throat pain is so severe that even swallowing saliva feels like it's being cut by a knife. What's going on? Traditional Chinese medicine does not rush to give an answer but first asks: Is the pain sudden or gradually worsening? Accompanied by fever, aversion to cold, or dry mouth, and restlessness? Because the same symptom can have completely different underlying "fire" causes.
Title: Triggers: External Pathogens and Internal Heat
Many people come to my clinic with complaints of severe throat pain, so intense that even swallowing saliva feels like it's being cut by a knife. This condition is often caused by a combination of external pathogens and internal heat. External pathogens refer to factors such as wind, cold, dampness, and heat that invade the body from the outside. Internal heat, on the other hand, is a result of internal imbalances within the body, such as overeating, emotional stress, or insufficient rest.
Understanding the specific cause of the throat pain is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment in traditional Chinese medicine. By identifying whether the pain is due to external pathogens or internal heat, practitioners can tailor the treatment plan accordingly. External heat, for instance, may require cooling and clearing methods, while internal heat may necessitate methods to nourish the Yin and clear heat.
Title: Diagnosis and Treatment in Traditional Chinese Medicine
In traditional Chinese medicine, the diagnosis of throat pain involves not only examining the physical symptoms but also considering the individual's overall health and lifestyle. Treatment methods may include herbal medicine, acupuncture, moxibustion, and lifestyle adjustments. Herbs such as honeysuckle, forsythia, and scutellaria are commonly used to clear heat and relieve throat pain. Acupuncture points that are believed to help alleviate throat pain include those that are associated with the lung and throat meridians.
Title: Prevention and Self-Care
Prevention and self-care are also important in managing throat pain. Maintaining a healthy diet, getting adequate rest, and managing stress can help prevent the onset of throat pain. If throat pain persists or worsens, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.