Patient's question:
Reasons for sudden decrease in menstrual flow, no other abnormalities. Previously took a cold shower in summer.Doctor's answer:
Hello, this is a condition of reduced menstrual flow according to Traditional Chinese Medicine theory, which refers to: a generally normal menstrual cycle, but with significantly reduced menstrual volume, or even just a few drops, or a shortened menstrual period of less than two days with minimal flow. It can also be referred to as excessive reduction in menstrual volume.It is divided into: blood deficiency syndrome, kidney deficiency syndrome, blood stasis syndrome, and phlegm-dampness syndrome.
Blood Deficiency Syndrome:
Clinical characteristics: Reduced menstrual volume, or just a few drops, with pale color and no clots. General symptoms: Dizziness and blurred vision, palpitations, a hollow sensation in the lower abdomen, pale pink tongue, and thin pulse. Treatment method: Nourishing blood and regulating menstruation. Medication: Zixue Decoction.
Kidney Deficiency Syndrome:
Menstrual volume is reduced, with pale red or dark red color and thin texture. General symptoms: Lower back and knee weakness, heel pain, dizziness and tinnitus, cold lower abdomen, frequent nighttime urination, pale tongue, and deep, weak pulse. Treatment method: Tonifying the kidneys, nourishing blood, and regulating menstruation. Medication: Guixin Pills.
Blood Stasis Syndrome:
Clinical characteristics: Reduced menstrual volume, dark purple-black color, with blood clots. General symptoms: Painful and tender lower abdominal swelling, reduced menstrual pain after blood clots are expelled, purple or dark tongue with petechiae, and wiry or thready pulse. Treatment method: Promoting blood circulation and resolving stasis to regulate menstruation. Medication: Taohong Siwu Decoction (modified).
Phlegm-Dampness Syndrome:
Clinical characteristics: Reduced menstrual volume, pale red color, with sticky and greasy texture like phlegm. General symptoms: Obesity, stuffy chest, nausea, or excessive sticky leukorrhea, pale tongue with greasy white coating, and slippery pulse. Treatment method: Resolving phlegm, drying dampness, and regulating menstruation. Medication: Cangfu Daotan Pills.
However, Traditional Chinese Medicine emphasizes syndrome differentiation and treatment. It is best to consult a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner and combine the four diagnostic methods (inspection, auscultation/olfaction, inquiry, and palpation) for accurate diagnosis and treatment to achieve the best results. Wishing you a speedy recovery.