How is dampness formed?

Generally, dampness accumulation in the body may be caused by long-term consumption of raw and cold foods, lack of physical activity, spleen and stomach weakness, chronic enteritis, hypothyroidism, and other related factors. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment under a physician's guidance. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Long-term consumption of raw and cold foods: Frequently consuming cold foods such as ice cream, chilled beverages, and raw fish may damage the yang energy of the spleen and stomach, impairing the body's ability to process fluids and leading to dampness accumulation. One should reduce intake of such foods and consume more warm, easily digestible foods, such as millet porridge, ginger, and Chinese yam.

2. Lack of physical activity: Prolonged sitting or insufficient exercise may slow the circulation of qi and blood, preventing dampness from being properly expelled from the body through sweat or urine, thus leading to internal accumulation. It is recommended to exercise 3–5 times per week, such as brisk walking, jogging, or yoga, for at least 30 minutes each session to promote dampness metabolism.

3. Spleen and stomach weakness: Often caused by irregular eating habits or excessive fatigue, weakened digestive function of the spleen and stomach can impair fluid transformation, potentially leading to symptoms of excessive dampness such as abdominal distension and sticky stools. Patients may follow medical advice to use medications such as Shenling Baizhu San, Xiangsha Yangwei Pills, or Jianpi Pills for treatment.

4. Chronic enteritis: Often caused by intestinal infections or immune dysfunction, impaired intestinal absorption function and disordered water metabolism may lead to symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain, which can worsen internal dampness. Patients should follow medical advice to use medications such as sulfasalazine enteric-coated tablets, mesalazine enteric-coated tablets, or Bifidobacterium quadruple live tablets for treatment.

5. Hypothyroidism: Insufficient secretion of thyroid hormones leads to a reduced metabolic rate and slower excretion of bodily fluids, which may cause symptoms such as edema and fatigue, indirectly contributing to dampness accumulation. Patients may follow medical advice to use medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets, thyroid extract tablets, or Yikang Capsules to alleviate symptoms.

In daily life, it is important to maintain a dry living environment and avoid prolonged exposure to damp conditions. Choose breathable, sweat-absorbing cotton clothing, and change promptly after sweating to reduce the chance of dampness entering the body.