Blurred Vision
AliasCentral serous chorioretinopathy
Traditional Chinese Medicine Definition
Visual Obscuration (Centrosclerotic Retinopathy)
In traditional Chinese medicine, Visual Obscuration, also known as Centrosclerotic Retinopathy, falls under the category of ophthalmic diseases within the field of internal medicine. It is defined as a localized serous detachment of the subretinal choroid in the eye, leading to blurred central vision, akin to looking through a misty veil. Clinical manifestations include decreased visual acuity and distorted vision.
In clinical practice of traditional Chinese medicine, the core pathogenesis of Visual Obscuration is often related to deficiencies in the liver and kidney, impaired spleen function, and the internal generation of dampness and phlegm. Common precipitating factors include emotional disorders, irregular diet, and excessive physical or sexual activity. During differentiation of symptoms, it is important to differentiate between the "phlegm-dampness obstructing the vision" syndrome and the "liver and kidney Yin deficiency" syndrome.
The "phlegm-dampness obstructing the vision" syndrome is characterized by distorted vision, dark shadows in front of the eyes, and chest oppression, with the treatment approach focusing on promoting diuresis and resolving phlegm, and ascending the clear and descending the turbid. The "liver and kidney Yin deficiency" syndrome manifests as decreased visual acuity, dry eyes, dizziness, and the treatment approach involves nourishing the liver and kidney, and benefiting essence and improving vision. The overall treatment direction suggests that in clinical practice, traditional Chinese medicine often employs a comprehensive approach using herbal medicine, acupuncture, and massage, with the principle of harmonizing yin and yang, smoothing the meridians, and reinforcing the liver and kidney, as well as promoting diuresis and resolving phlegm.
Common Syndrome Types and Key Points of Differentiation
Phlegm-Dampness Obstruction Syndrome
Main Manifestations: Distorted vision, dark shadows in front of the eyes, chest oppression
Management Approach: Drain Dampness and Dissipate Phlegm, Elevate the Clear and Lower the turbid
Liver and Kidney Yin Deficiency Syndrome
Main Manifestations: Vision decline, dry eyes, dizziness
Management Approach: Tonify the Liver and Kidneys, Benefit the Essence and Brighten the Eyes
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
Patients with Visual Obscuration often feel as if there are dark shadows blocking their vision. The key to treatment lies in tonifying the liver and kidney, and activating blood circulation to remove blood stasis.
— Zhu Yongbing 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)