Syncope
AliasFainting
Traditional Chinese Medicine Definition
In traditional Chinese medicine, syncope, also known as fainting, is a type of disease related to Qi, blood, and body fluid imbalances. According to the "Internal Medicine of Traditional Chinese Medicine," syncope refers to a condition where Qi flow is disrupted, leading to the separation of Yin and Yang, resulting in sudden fainting and loss of consciousness. The characteristics of syncope include an abrupt onset, critical condition, and etiology often related to emotional disturbances, imbalance of work and rest, and improper diet.
In clinical practice of traditional Chinese medicine, the core pathogenesis of syncope is the disruption of Qi flow and the imbalance of Yin and Yang. Common precipitating factors include extreme emotions, excessive sexual activity, and irregular diet. During the differential diagnosis, attention should be paid to distinguishing between cold and heat, deficiency and excess. For instance, the excess pattern of Qi syncope is characterized by sudden fainting, loss of consciousness, locked jaw, and rough breathing; while the excess pattern of blood syncope presents with sudden fainting, flushed face, purple lips, and a closed jaw. The overall approach to treatment suggests smoothing Qi and opening up stagnation, or calming the Liver and subduing Yang, along with regulating Qi and promoting blood circulation. In clinical practice, the treatment of syncope emphasizes harmonizing Yin and Yang, restoring Qi flow, and preventing further deterioration of the condition. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that through differential diagnosis and treatment, symptoms can be alleviated and recurrence prevented.
Common Syndrome Types and Key Points of Differentiation
Qi Syncope with Excess Syndrome
Main Manifestations: Sudden fainting, unconsciousness, mouth closed, clenched fists, and coarse breathing
Management Approach: Regulate Qi and relieve depression, relax the middle and regulate Qi
Blood Stagnation Syndrome
Main Manifestations: Sudden fainting, flushed face, purple lips, and clenched teeth
Management Approach: Calm the Liver and subdue Yang, regulate Qi and remove blood stasis
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
For patients with syncope, the symptoms and duration of the attack, as well as the condition during the recovery period, are guiding factors for diagnosis.
— 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)