What are the symptoms of spleen deficiency and excessive dampness in women?

Generally, spleen deficiency with excessive dampness is a common issue in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), often caused by weakened function of the spleen and stomach in transforming and transporting fluids, leading to internal accumulation of dampness. Common symptoms include heavy limbs, abnormal vaginal discharge, oily skin, abdominal distension with loose stools, and irregular menstruation. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Heavy Limbs: Spleen deficiency leads to impaired metabolism of dampness and fluid, causing damp pathogens to block the limbs. This often manifests as general fatigue, heaviness in the limbs, tiredness during physical activity, and even mild swelling in the lower extremities, with slow skin rebound after pressing.

2. Abnormal Vaginal Discharge: Descending dampness may affect gynecological health, causing increased vaginal discharge that is thick and sticky in texture, with a white or light yellow color. Some women may also experience dampness and odor in the genital area, with symptoms worsening after physical exertion.

3. Oily Skin: Dampness accumulating in the skin may lead to excessive sebum secretion on the face and scalp, making acne and skin conditions such as eczema more likely. The skin may appear dull and lack luster, with a sticky sensation upon touch.

4. Abdominal Distension with Loose Stools: Dysfunction of the spleen and stomach in transformation and transportation leads to slow digestion, causing post-meal bloating and reduced appetite. Simultaneously, internal accumulation of dampness affects intestinal function, resulting in loose, unformed stools, increased bowel movements, and a feeling of incomplete evacuation after defecation.

5. Menstrual Irregularities: Spleen deficiency leads to insufficient production of qi and blood, compounded by dampness impeding the circulation of qi and blood. This may cause irregular menstrual cycles, reduced or increased menstrual flow, pale-colored menstrual blood with a thin consistency, and sometimes menstrual pain or lower back pain during the period.

In daily life, it is recommended to consume more foods that strengthen the spleen and eliminate dampness, such as red beans, coix seed, and poria. Intake of raw, cold, sweet, and greasy foods should be reduced. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule and avoiding late nights can help improve the condition of spleen deficiency with excessive dampness and promote overall well-being.