Can removing dampness cause diarrhea?

Aug 12, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
When removing dampness from the body through dietary therapy or mild methods of dampness elimination, the dampness is expelled via the intestines, possibly causing one to two episodes of mild diarrhea per day. This is a normal bodily response to expel excess moisture and should subside gradually as dampness decreases, without significant discomfort. However, if diarrhea is frequent, persists for a prolonged period, or is accompanied by abdominal pain, it is not considered a normal manifestation of dampness removal.

Diarrhea, in general, may cause mild and temporary diarrhea during the process of expelling dampness, which is a normal reaction; however, if diarrhea is frequent, lasts for a long time, or is accompanied by abdominal pain, it is not considered a normal response of dampness elimination. If concerned, it is recommended to seek medical advice in advance. Detailed explanation is as follows:

When eliminating dampness through dietary therapy or gentle methods, the dampness within the body is expelled through the intestines, which may cause mild diarrhea once or twice daily without significant discomfort. This condition will gradually improve as the dampness decreases, and it represents a normal reaction of the body expelling excess moisture.

If aggressive methods are used to eliminate dampness or if the individual has inherent weakness in the spleen and stomach, symptoms such as frequent diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fatigue may occur during the process of dampness elimination. These symptoms indicate excessive damage to the spleen and stomach and are not part of a normal dampness-removal process.

It is important to choose an appropriate method suitable for one's own physical condition when eliminating dampness. If abnormal diarrhea occurs, the current method should be stopped immediately, symptoms should be monitored, and medical consultation should be sought when necessary to adjust the approach, avoiding adverse effects on health due to improper dampness elimination.

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