1
Lung-spleen qi deficiency
- Key distinguishing signs
- Frequent colds with fatigue, poor appetite, sweat and loose stool, pale tongue and weak pulse
- Treatment principle
- Tonify lung-spleen and secure the surface
Pediatricxiǎo ér fǎn fù gǎn mào
Frequent colds in children
Also called:recurrent respiratory infectionsfrequent colds
From the TCM perspective: Recurrent colds: weak defensive qi
Overview
Recurrent respiratory infections are common (6-10 viral episodes/year in daycare), but very high frequency or complications suggest weak defense. TCM attributes them to lung-spleen qi deficiency with insecure surface defensive qi, plus fatigue, cold and damp. Vaccination and prevention remain foundational.
☯Common patterns (syndrome differentiation)
2
Disharmony of ying-wei
- Key distinguishing signs
- Wind sensitivity with spontaneous sweat, restless sleep and repeated mild colds
- Treatment principle
- Harmonize ying and wei
3
Qi-yin deficiency after illness
- Key distinguishing signs
- Prolonged episodes with hot palms, dryness, mild evening fever and a weak voice, red tongue
- Treatment principle
- Nourish qi and yin to support resistance
4
Internal food stagnation/damp
- Key distinguishing signs
- Colds with phlegm, digestive upset, bloating and a thick coat, worse after overeating
- Treatment principle
- Digest stagnation and drain dampness
Daily self-care
- Keep vaccines current, wash hands, ventilate and avoid secondhand smoke and crowds during outbreaks.
- Ensure sleep and nutrition and moderate outdoor activity; do not over-bundle.
- Log frequency and antibiotics; consult a specialist for repeated severe infections or poor growth.
When to seek medical help
The following warning signs require prompt medical evaluation — do not rely on self-treatment:
- Recurrent pneumonia or severe infections needing hospitalization twice a year.
- Poor growth, recurrent abscesses, fungal infections or a family immune disorder.
- Persistent fever, bloody cough, breathlessness, or a lethargic child who will not drink.
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.