What are the symptoms of excessive internal cold and dampness?

Jun 21, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. He Haochen
Introduction
Excessive internal cold and dampness is a constitutional condition in traditional Chinese medicine. When there is an overabundance of cold and dampness in the body, symptoms commonly include joint pain and stiffness, indigestion, heaviness in the limbs, skin problems, and mental fatigue. It is recommended to seek medical attention at a hospital promptly and follow medical advice for treatment. If the aforementioned symptoms occur, it is also advisable to adjust lifestyle habits and maintain a dry, well-ventilated indoor environment.

Excessive internal cold-dampness is a body constitution state described in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). When cold-dampness accumulates excessively in the body, common symptoms include joint pain and stiffness, indigestion, heaviness in the limbs, skin problems, and mental fatigue. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention at a hospital and follow medical advice for treatment. The analysis is as follows:

1. Joint Pain and Stiffness: Cold-dampness invading the joints disrupts the smooth flow of qi and blood, easily causing joint pain and stiffness. Symptoms are often more pronounced during weather changes or rainy days.

2. Indigestion: Cold-dampness impairs spleen and stomach function, reducing digestive and absorptive capacity. This may manifest as reduced appetite, abdominal bloating, diarrhea, and loose stools.

3. Heaviness in the Limbs: Excessive internal cold-dampness causes dampness to stagnate in muscles and meridians, leading patients to feel heaviness in their limbs and difficulty moving, with symptoms particularly noticeable upon waking in the morning.

4. Skin Problems: Dampness obstruction interferes with normal skin metabolism and excretion functions, potentially causing skin issues such as eczema, itching, and oily skin.

5. Mental Fatigue: Excessive internal cold-dampness can also affect mental well-being, manifesting as easy fatigue, excessive sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, and even depressive moods.

If the above symptoms occur, it is recommended to adjust lifestyle habits, maintain dry and well-ventilated indoor environments, and avoid prolonged exposure to damp conditions. When necessary, visit a hospital for traditional therapies such as acupuncture or cupping to improve the cold-dampness constitution.