Amnesia
AliasMemory decline
Traditional Chinese Medicine Definition
In traditional Chinese medicine, Amnesia refers to a syndrome within the category of heart-related diseases, characterized by a decline in memory, inability to retain memories for a prolonged period, or frequent forgetfulness upon encountering events. The classical text "Internal Medicine of Traditional Chinese Medicine" records: "Amnesia is due to the deficiency of the heart, where the spirit does not remain in its place, thus leading to forgetfulness." This condition is often caused by deficiencies in both the heart and spleen, or an imbalance between the heart and kidney.
In clinical practice of traditional Chinese medicine, the core pathogenesis of amnesia is attributed to deficiencies in both the heart and spleen or an imbalance between the heart and kidney. Common precipitating factors include emotional disorders, irregular diet, and excessive fatigue. During the process of differentiation, it is crucial to differentiate the nature of cold and heat, as well as the deficiency and excess. For instance, a deficiency in both the heart and spleen is manifested by symptoms such as amnesia, palpitations, insomnia, reduced appetite, fatigue, and a sallow complexion. An imbalance between the heart and kidney presents with symptoms like amnesia, weakness in the lower back and knees, dizziness, tinnitus, and restlessness with insomnia. The overall approach to treatment suggests tonifying the heart and spleen, nourishing the blood and calming the mind, or nourishing yin and reducing fire, and facilitating the communication between the heart and kidney. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that by adjusting the functions of the heart and spleen and balancing yin and yang, the symptoms of amnesia can be improved.
Common Syndrome Types and Key Points of Differentiation
Deficiency of both heart and spleen
Main Manifestations: Amnesia, palpitations, insomnia, decreased appetite, fatigue, and a sallow complexion
Management Approach: Tonify Heart and Spleen, Nourish Blood and Calm the Mind
Heart and kidney not communicating
Main Manifestations: Amnesia, soreness in the lower back and knees, dizziness, tinnitus, irritability, and insomnia
Management Approach: Nourish Yin and Reduce Fire, Connect Heart and Kidneys
The above syndrome information is based on traditional Chinese medicine textbooks and clinical standards. Specific differentiation should be completed by a practicing traditional Chinese medicine physician in person.
Physician's Clinical Insights
Amnesia patients often have emotional factors, and it is crucial to regulate the heart and spleen, and nourish the heart and calm the mind.
— Wang Zhengxiang Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner
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This page is for the popular science of traditional Chinese medicine knowledge and does not constitute medical advice. Specific diagnosis should be completed by a licensed traditional Chinese medicine practitioner in person.
This article has been reviewed by licensed TCM physicians at Hangzhou Kezhentang TCM Clinic. It is for TCM popular science reference only and does not involve specific treatment plan recommendations.
References: Internal Medicine of TCM (13th Five-Year Plan Textbook), Diagnostic and Therapeutic Effectiveness Standards for TCM Diseases and Syndromes (ZY/T001.1-94), Classification and Codes of TCM Diseases and Syndromes (GB/T 15657-2021)