Patient: Male, 53 years old
Main concern: Coughing continuously
First Visit (6/8/2025)
- The patient had been coughing continuously since mid-June. Western medical examination diagnosed “bronchitis.”
- Frequent coughing, sometimes severe enough to cause fainting. Sensation of a foreign body lodged in the throat, worsened after meals.
- Chest pain and headaches. Sputum was scanty, clear, sticky, and frothy. Symptoms eased when lying down but worsened when sitting.
- Hands and feet were cold.
Second Visit (9/8/2025)
- Continued with the previous prescription and acupuncture treatment.
Third Visit (16/8/2025)
- Significant improvement; daytime cough almost gone.
- Fainting episodes had completely resolved. Only occasional nighttime coughing around 11 PM and 2–3 AM.
Fourth Visit (22/8/2025)
- No daytime cough; only slight nighttime coughing.
- With an additional week of treatment, the condition fully resolved.
Case Analysis
The prolonged illness centered around phlegm:
- Phlegm-fluid rising and obstructing the Lung’s descending function 👉 throat blockage, clear and frothy sputum.
- Phlegm turbidity clouding the orifices 👉 coughing episodes leading to fainting and headaches.
- Deficiency of Lung and Spleen with weakened defensive Yang 👉 cold hands and feet, reduced sweating.
Treatment Principles
👉 Strengthen the Spleen and transform phlegm
👉 Regulate the Lung and stop coughing
👉 Warm Yang and tonify Qi
As the phlegm resolved and the Qi mechanism became regulated, the cough, dizziness, and chest oppression naturally disappeared, leading to a complete recovery.
Daily Health Recommendations
✔ Dietary Guidance
- Avoid greasy, spicy, and fried foods that contribute to dampness and phlegm.
- Consume foods that nourish and moisten the Lungs: lily bulb, white fungus (tremella), pears.
✔ Lifestyle and Habits
- Keep indoor air well-ventilated and avoid exposure to cold.
- Maintain regular routines and avoid overexertion.
- Stay warm at night to prevent cough recurrence.
✔ Supportive Measures
- Warm foot baths to improve cold extremities.
- Gentle tapping on the back to aid phlegm expectoration.
- Maintain a pleasant emotional state to support smooth Qi regulation.
Summary
This case demonstrates that TCM emphasizes the integrated regulation of phlegm, Qi, and Yang. With precise pattern differentiation and treatment, even stubborn chronic coughs can be effectively resolved. Combined with proper daily self-care, the results are more stable and relapse is prevented.
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