Allergic Rhinitis
過敏性鼻炎 / 过敏性鼻炎
Nasal symptoms triggered by allergens, including sneezing and runny nose.
Quick Facts
| Health Topic | Respiratory Care |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Hay fever-like rhinitis, Allergic runny nose, Seasonal nasal allergy, Sneezing allergy |
| Common Symptoms | Recurrent sneezing, runny or blocked nose, and itchy nose or eyes triggered by allergens or seasonal change. Symptoms may be intermittent or prolonged, and can disturb sleep or concentration when severe. |
| Related TCM Patterns | Wind-Cold · Qi Deficiency |
| Related Classical Formulas | |
| Related Articles | Allergic Rhinitis: Syndrome Differentiation and Daily Care |
Allergic Rhinitis in Traditional Chinese Medicine
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, allergic rhinitis-type presentations are often discussed in relation to exterior patterns and Lung or defensive Qi states, though formula coverage in the current set is still limited. Differentiation would consider clear versus coloured discharge, presence of itch, and whether exterior cold or heat signs predominate. Accompanying signs such as tongue appearance, pulse quality and the presence of heat or cold help distinguish one presentation from another.
TCM Patterns Associated With Allergic Rhinitis
The same presentation may be understood through more than one pattern. Pattern differentiation weighs the accompanying signs, not the symptom on its own.
| Pattern | Common Features | Related Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Wind-Cold風寒證Exterior Patterns | Chills that outweigh the fever, no sweating, a stuffy or runny nose with clear discharge, an itchy or scratchy throat rather than a sore one, body aches, and a cough with thin white phlegm. Symptoms often start abruptly after exposure to cold or wind. Tongue with a thin white coating; pulse floating and tight. | |
| Qi Deficiency氣虛證Deficiency Patterns | Easy fatigue, shortness of breath on mild effort, a soft or low voice, and spontaneous sweating with light activity. The complexion is often pale, and recovery after exertion is slow. There may be a tendency to catch external pathogens more easily. Tongue pale with a thin white coating; pulse weak or empty. |
Classical Formulas Traditionally Associated
Associated with 4 classical formulas
Listed for study. Which formula fits, if any, depends on the pattern rather than the symptom.
Learn More About Allergic Rhinitis
Related Health Topic
Respiratory Care — Formulas supporting lung function, respiratory comfort, and recovery from external contractions.
Health Topic
See all Respiratory Care conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Traditional Chinese Medicine understand allergic rhinitis?
In TCM, allergic rhinitis is often viewed as Bi Qiu, in which the nasal orifices fail to open and close properly because Lung Qi is weak and the exterior is not consolidated. Wind, Cold or hidden Heat may invade repeatedly. The Lung, Spleen and Kidney are commonly involved in recurrent or seasonal cases.
What are the common TCM patterns of allergic rhinitis?
Frequent patterns include Lung Qi deficiency with Wind-Cold (sneezing, clear discharge, aversion to wind), Spleen Qi deficiency with Dampness (persistent congestion, fatigue), Kidney deficiency (long-standing, seasonal or early-morning attacks), and hidden Heat in the Lung (itching, yellow discharge, dryness). Accurate pattern differentiation determines the treatment approach.
How does TCM regulate allergic rhinitis?
During attacks the focus is to disperse Wind and open the orifices; between attacks the focus is to tonify Lung, Spleen and Kidney and consolidate the exterior. Formulas such as modifications of Yu Ping Feng San, Cang Er Zi San or Shen Su Yin may be considered. TCM is complementary to allergen avoidance and conventional care when needed.
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This library is educational. It describes how Traditional Chinese Medicine has traditionally understood these presentations. It is not a diagnosis, and it is not a treatment recommendation.
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