What are the symptoms of spleen and stomach deficiency-cold?
Dec 10, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
Spleen and stomach deficiency-cold typically presents symptoms such as cold pain in the epigastric and abdominal regions, loose stools, poor appetite, aversion to cold with cold limbs, and indigestion. Cold epigastric/abdominal pain: a sensation of cold and pain in the abdomen and stomach area; the pain is usually dull or intermittently colicky, and tends to worsen upon exposure to cold. Discomfort may be relieved by warmth or consuming warm foods, making it a typical symptom of spleen and stomach deficiency-cold.
Spleen and stomach deficiency-cold typically presents with symptoms such as cold pain in the abdomen and epigastric region, loose stools, poor appetite, aversion to cold with cold limbs, and indigestion. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Cold pain in the abdomen and epigastric region: A sensation of cold and pain occurs in the abdominal and stomach areas. The pain is usually dull or intermittently colicky, worsening in cold conditions. Discomfort may be relieved by warmth or consuming warm food, making it a typical symptom of spleen and stomach deficiency-cold.
2. Loose stools: Stools are watery and unformed, with possibly increased frequency. The feces generally have no strong odor. Some individuals may experience undigested food in the stool—meaning food is expelled before being fully digested—related to weakened digestive and transforming function of the spleen and stomach.
3. Poor appetite: Insufficient yang qi in the spleen and stomach leads to reduced digestive capacity, resulting in diminished interest in food. After eating, individuals may easily develop bloating, belching, and other discomforts. Even small amounts of food can induce a feeling of fullness, which over time may lead to inadequate nutritional intake.
4. Aversion to cold with cold limbs: Deficiency-cold in the spleen and stomach disrupts the circulation of yang qi throughout the body, impairing peripheral blood flow. This results in cold extremities and sensitivity to cold. The abdomen, in particular, is highly sensitive to cold stimuli and prone to discomfort when exposed to cold.
5. Indigestion: Weakened digestive function of the spleen and stomach impairs normal digestion and absorption of nutrients from food. In addition to bloating, symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and acid regurgitation may occur. Some individuals may also experience limb fatigue, low energy, and an overall state of weakness.
When symptoms of spleen and stomach deficiency-cold appear, it is important to keep the abdomen warm and avoid exposure to cold. Diet should emphasize warm, easily digestible foods, while intake of raw, cold, cooling, and greasy foods should be reduced.
