angina

Brief Description

Angina, a symptom of coronary artery disease, presents as a squeezing or burning sensation in the chest that may radiate to the arms, neck, or jaw. It is typically triggered by physical exertion or emotional stress, with symptoms resolving at rest or after medication. Accompanying signs may include shortness of breath, fatigue, and palpitations.

From a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, angina is categorized under "Xiong Bi (胸痹)," or chest obstruction. It results from stagnation of Qi and Blood in the chest, compounded by underlying deficiencies in Heart, Kidney, or Spleen function. Contributing factors include emotional stress, poor diet, cold invasion, and aging, all of which disrupt the free flow of Qi and Blood to the Heart.

TCM treats angina holistically, focusing on relieving acute symptoms, improving circulation, and addressing systemic imbalances to enhance cardiovascular health. By unblocking Qi and Blood, nourishing the Heart, and strengthening the body’s defenses, TCM provides a natural and comprehensive pathway to heart health.

Common Misconceptions

  • It’s just heartburn or a minor issue: Many people dismiss angina as heartburn or muscle strain, delaying essential treatment.
  • Medication is the only solution: While medications like nitrates provide temporary relief, TCM addresses the underlying causes to prevent recurrence.
  • Rest is enough: Rest can relieve symptoms temporarily, but without addressing Qi and Blood stagnation or deficiencies, the condition may worsen over time.
  • It’s only about the heart: Angina often reflects systemic imbalances involving the Liver, Spleen, and Kidney in addition to the Heart.

TCM Diagnosis

Typical Tongue

Typical Pulse

Cun pulse can be taut or weak

TCM Pathogenesis

Excess Patterns: Qi and Blood Stagnation: Obstructed flow in the chest leads to pain, tightness, and palpitations. Phlegm and Damp Accumulation: Internal Dampness combines with Phlegm to block the Heart meridian.

Deficiency Patterns: Heart Qi and Blood Deficiency: Weak circulation fails to nourish the Heart, causing intermittent pain. Kidney Yang Deficiency: Insufficient Yang energy weakens Heart function and creates cold stagnation. Spleen Qi Deficiency: Poor digestion contributes to Dampness and impairs blood production.

TCM Treatment

General Principle

Unblock Qi and Blood: Relieve stagnation in the chest to alleviate pain and promote circulation. Remove Phlegm and Dampness: Clear obstructions in the Heart meridian to restore free flow. Nourish the Heart: Strengthen Heart Qi and Blood to support cardiovascular health. Warm Yang and Expel Cold: Address cold-induced stagnation in the chest.

Unique Therapies We Apply

  • Acupuncture: Combining traditional points and specific points to relieve chest pain and improve blood flow: Nei Guan (PC6): Opens the chest, calms the mind, and relieves pain. Shan Zhong (CV17): Regulates Qi in the chest and promotes Heart health. Zu San Li (ST36): Strengthens Qi and supports systemic circulation. Xin Shu (BL15): Nourishes the Heart and calms palpitations.
  • Herbal Formulas: Based on classical prescriptions (Jing Fang, 经方) tailored to the patient’s condition: Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang (血府逐瘀汤): Removes blood stasis and improves chest circulation. Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan (天王补心丹): Nourishes Heart Yin and calms the mind. Gui Zhi Gan Cao Tang (桂枝甘草汤): Strengthens Heart Yang and regulates palpitations.

Treatment Plan

  • Acute Phase (0-2 Weeks): Focus: Relieve pain, unblock Qi and Blood, and calm the Heart. Frequency: Acupuncture 2-3 times per week; and/or herbal formulas taken daily.
  • Stabilization Phase (2-6 Weeks): Focus: Resolve systemic imbalances, strengthen Heart function, and prevent recurrence. Frequency: Acupuncture 1-2 times per week; and/or herbal therapy continued daily.
  • Prevention Phase (6 Weeks+): Focus: Support cardiovascular health, enhance circulation, and address constitutional deficiencies. Frequency: Weekly acupuncture with ongoing herbal therapy for 1-2 months.

Precaution

  • Avoid Cold Exposure: Keep the chest warm to reduce cold-induced stagnation.
  • Adopt a Heart-Healthy Diet: Limit fatty and processed foods; focus on balanced, nutrient-rich meals.
  • Monitor Symptoms: Seek immediate medical attention for severe or worsening chest pain.
  • Maintain Regular Treatment: Consistent acupuncture and herbal therapy are key to preventing recurrence.

Summary

Angina, or chest pain, reflects deeper imbalances in the body that require comprehensive care. Traditional Chinese Medicine provides effective tools to relieve pain, improve circulation, and enhance heart health through acupuncture, herbal medicine, and lifestyle adjustments. By addressing both symptoms and root causes, TCM empowers patients to achieve long-term cardiovascular wellness.

TCM Dr. Ma

The Traditional Chinese Medicine treatment approaches outlined above are derived from my clinical experience, and I acknowledge there may be areas not fully covered or that require further refinement over time.

This content is intended to provide a learning reference for professionals and enthusiasts in Traditional Chinese Medicine and to help patients gain a better understanding of their conditions and common misconceptions.

However, I must emphasize that this information does not constitute specific treatment guidance. All TCM treatments must be tailored to the individual through thorough diagnosis by a qualified practitioner. Non-professionals should not attempt self-treatment based on this information, as any treatment conducted without professional supervision may carry potential safety risks.