National Standard Code
BWO
GB/T 15657-2021
Category
Ophthalmological diseases and symptoms

Traditional Chinese Medicine Definition

Yuan Yi Nei Zhang, also known as cataract, is described in classical Chinese medicine as a condition characterized by turbidity of the intraocular lens, leading to a gradual decline in vision. According to records in "Internal Medicine of Traditional Chinese Medicine," Yuan Yi Nei Zhang falls under the category of ophthalmic diseases, with its pathogenesis often related to kidney and liver deficiency, as well as spleen weakness, resulting in the loss of transparency of the lens and blurred vision.

In clinical practice of traditional Chinese medicine, the core pathogenesis of Yuan Yi Nei Zhang is attributed to either kidney and liver Yin deficiency or spleen weakness. Common precipitating factors include aging, prolonged illness, and irregular diet. During diagnosis, attention should be paid to distinguishing between cold and heat, as well as deficiency and excess. Kidney and liver deficiency is manifested by gradual decline in vision, blurred vision, and weakness in the lower back and knees. Spleen weakness is characterized by blurred vision, fatigue, and poor appetite. The overall direction of treatment suggests tonifying the kidney and liver, and strengthening the spleen and Qi, aiming to restore the balance of Yin and Yang in the body to improve vision. In clinical practice, the treatment of Yuan Yi Nei Zhang emphasizes holistic treatment, emphasizing both internal and external approaches, and utilizes a comprehensive approach with various methods such as Chinese herbs, acupuncture, and dietary therapy to improve the patient's vision.

Common Syndrome Types and Key Points of Differentiation

Deficiency of liver and kidney

Main Manifestations: Weak urination, frequent urination at night, cold pain in the lower back and knees

Management Approach: Tonify the Liver and Kidneys, Brighten the Eyes and Dispel Cloudiness

Spleen Deficiency and Weak Qi Syndrome

Main Manifestations: Blurred vision, fatigue, decreased appetite

Management Approach: Strengthen the Spleen and Boost Qi, Clear the Head 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 Yuan Yi Nei Zhang often experience a decline in vision, and focusing on tonifying the kidney and liver, and improving eyesight is the fundamental aspect of treatment.

— Tang Yulan Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner (Apprentice)

Reviewed by: Tang Yulan (Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner (Apprentice)) | 2026-07-08 | Version 2

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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)

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