Title: Abdominal Pain and Intestinal Rumbling During Diarrhea: The Constitution Code of Spleen-Invaded by Cold and Dampness and Intestine-Invaded by Damp-Heat
Author: Li Mingjiu, a licensed Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Practitioner (Practice License Number: 141330522000349). This article is written by Dr. Li Mingjiu and is based on classical TCM theories and clinical experience. It is intended for popular science reference only. The professional qualifications can be publicly verified on the official website of the National Health Commission of China.
In the early morning, the urgent need to defecate, rumbling sounds in the abdomen, accompanied by intermittent sharp pain – this scenario is not uncommon in clinical practice. However, for those who experience abdominal pain and intestinal rumbling, some find relief after drinking hot ginger soup, while others feel worse. Behind this lies the two entirely different constitution codes of "Spleen-invaded by Cold and Dampness" and "Intestine-invaded by Damp-Heat." In TCM clinical diagnosis, the primary task is to differentiate between "Cold" and "Heat."
Title: Understanding the Differences in TCM Treatment
In TCM, the treatment for abdominal pain and intestinal rumbling due to diarrhea varies depending on the specific constitution. For those with Spleen-invaded by Cold and Dampness, the focus is on warming the body and expelling dampness. Herbs such as Cinnamon, Atractylodes, and Poria are commonly used. On the other hand, for those with Intestine-invaded by Damp-Heat, the treatment involves clearing heat and drying dampness. Herbs like Scutellaria, Phellodendron, and Alisma are often prescribed.
Title: The Importance of Diet and Lifestyle Adjustments
In addition to herbal medicine, diet and lifestyle adjustments are crucial in managing abdominal pain and intestinal rumbling during diarrhea. For those with Spleen-invaded by Cold and Dampness, it is recommended to avoid cold and raw foods, and to consume more warm and nourishing foods. For those with Intestine-invaded by Damp-Heat, it is advisable to avoid spicy and greasy foods, and to increase the intake of cooling and detoxifying foods.