: 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
Imagine a traveler who enters a traditional clinic in a quiet mountain village. Before the patient even speaks, the practitioner begins the diagnostic journey through (Looking). : The doctor notices the patient's sallow complexion
: 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 This confirms a likely deficiency in Qi ,