: The doctor notices the patient's sallow complexion and a certain dullness in the eyes, suggesting a possible "low spirit" or lack of Shen . When the patient sticks out their tongue, the practitioner sees a pale body with a thick white coating and teeth marks on the sides—signs often associated with Spleen Qi deficiency and "dampness".
: As the patient finally greets the doctor, the practitioner notes a weak, low voice and heavy, labored breathing. This confirms a likely deficiency in Qi , as a strong voice typically indicates robust internal energy. Diagnostics of Traditional Chinese Medicine
: Finally, the doctor places three fingers on the patient's wrist to read the pulse . They feel a "thready" or weak pulse, which corresponds to the lack of blood or Qi observed earlier. The Diagnosis: Syndrome Differentiation : The doctor notices the patient's sallow complexion
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) diagnostics are rooted in the —Inspection, Listening & Smelling, Inquiry, and Palpation—designed to identify a patient's unique "syndrome" or pattern of disharmony. The Story of the Silent Patient This confirms a likely deficiency in Qi ,
