How is dampness treated?
Aug 20, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
In general, excessive dampness in the body may be caused by prolonged sitting with insufficient physical activity, excessive consumption of greasy or cold foods, spleen deficiency with excess dampness, chronic gastroenteritis, hypothyroidism, or other related factors. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation to identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition through general treatments, medications, or other approaches under a doctor's guidance. Additionally, maintaining a dry and well-ventilated living environment is important in daily life.
Generally, excessive dampness in the body may be caused by long-term sitting without sufficient physical activity, excessive consumption of greasy or cold foods, spleen deficiency with dampness accumulation, chronic gastroenteritis, hypothyroidism, and other related factors. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation to identify the underlying cause and improve the condition under a doctor's guidance through general treatments, medications, and other approaches. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Prolonged Sitting and Insufficient Exercise: Sitting for extended periods can hinder the circulation of qi and blood and slow down water metabolism, leading to dampness accumulation in the body. Engaging in more than 30 minutes of daily physical activity, such as brisk walking, jogging, or yoga, can promote circulation and perspiration, aiding in the elimination of dampness.
2. Excessive Consumption of Greasy and Cold Foods: Frequent intake of fried, fatty foods or cold beverages and raw dishes may impair the function of the spleen and stomach, affecting the normal transformation and transportation of dampness, thereby worsening dampness accumulation. Adjusting dietary habits by reducing greasy and cold foods and increasing consumption of spleen-strengthening and dampness-resolving ingredients such as red beans, coix seed, and Chinese yam can help. Maintaining regular meal times and avoiding overeating are also important.
3. Spleen Deficiency with Dampness Accumulation: Weakened function of the spleen and stomach leads to impaired excretion of dampness, manifesting as abdominal distension, loose stools, fatigue, and other symptoms. Patients should follow medical advice to take medications such as Shen Ling Bai Zhu San (Powder of Medicinal Herbs), Xiang Sha Liu Jun Wan (aromatic six gentlemen pill), or Jian Pi Wan (Spleen-Strengthening Pills) to regulate the spleen and stomach. Avoiding excessive fatigue and maintaining a regular lifestyle are also necessary.
4. Chronic Gastroenteritis: Long-term inflammation of the gastrointestinal mucosa impairs digestion and absorption functions, hindering dampness metabolism, often accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. Patients should follow medical advice to use medications such as omeprazole enteric-coated capsules, hydrotalcite chewable tablets, or domperidone tablets to alleviate inflammation and improve gastrointestinal function. The diet should mainly consist of bland and easily digestible foods.
5. Hypothyroidism: Insufficient secretion of thyroid hormones reduces the body's metabolic rate and decreases water excretion, resulting in dampness accumulation. Symptoms may include cold intolerance, fatigue, and weight gain. Patients should follow medical advice to take medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets, thyroid extract tablets, or L-thyroxine sodium tablets to supplement hormones, maintain normal metabolism, and take care to stay warm and increase physical activity appropriately.
In daily life, it is important to maintain a dry and well-ventilated living environment, avoid long-term exposure to damp conditions, and regularly air bedding. Reducing late-night activities, maintaining emotional stability, and adopting comprehensive health regulation methods can help eliminate dampness and maintain overall health.
