1
Lung qi deficiency
- Key distinguishing signs
- Short breath worse with talking and exertion, weak voice, spontaneous sweat, fatigue, pale tongue and soft pulse
- Treatment principle
- Tonify lung qi
Respiratoryqì duǎn
Shortness of breath
Also called:breathlessnessdyspnea
From the TCM perspective: Shortness of breath: qi deficiency, stagnation or phlegm
Overview
Shortness of breath is difficulty taking a full breath with a sense of insufficient air. TCM distinguishes deficiency (lung/kidney qi) worsened by exertion from excess patterns of qi stagnation, phlegm obstructing the lung, or blood stasis; the latter may be acute.
☯Common patterns (syndrome differentiation)
2
Kidneys failing to grasp qi
- Key distinguishing signs
- Long exhalation and short inhalation, worse on exertion, wheeze, weak lower back and knees, deep fine pulse
- Treatment principle
- Tonify kidneys and secure qi
3
Phlegm obstructing the lung
- Key distinguishing signs
- Breathlessness with copious phlegm, wheezing, chest oppression, greasy coat and slippery pulse
- Treatment principle
- Resolve phlegm and downbear lung qi
4
Heart blood stasis
- Key distinguishing signs
- Breathlessness with chest pain/pressure, purplish lips, dark tongue with purple spots, irregular pulse
- Treatment principle
- Quicken blood, remove stasis and unblock the chest
Daily self-care
- Sit upright rather than lie flat, stop activity immediately, and follow your prescribed asthma/cardiac plan.
- Avoid smoking, cold air and irritants, and maintain a healthy weight.
- Practice slow breathing (inhale through the nose, prolonged pursed-lip exhale) when stable.
When to seek medical help
The following warning signs require prompt medical evaluation — do not rely on self-treatment:
- Sudden breathlessness with chest pain/pressure, cold sweat or fainting.
- Blue lips/face or inability to speak in full sentences.
- Rapidly worsening breathlessness with severe wheeze, leg swelling or an allergic reaction.
Medical disclaimer: Educational content about traditional Chinese medicine for information only; it is not a diagnosis or treatment and does not replace a qualified clinician. If symptoms worsen or warning signs appear, seek medical care.