Why Do We Get Sick?

Have you ever wondered why do you get sick? Today I will introduce you to the causes of diseases from a Chinese Medicine (CM) viewpoint.

Why is it important to understand the cause? This is because;

1) Understanding the underlying cause can help determine the best treatment method.

2) Understanding what causes disease can help you to gain awareness thus preventing diseases from happening.

Classification of the Cause of Diseases

Chinese Medicine (CM) divides the causes of diseases into four main categories. The Exogenous pathogenic factors, endogenous pathogenic factors, pathogens of pathological product, and other factors.

1) Exogenous Pathogenic Factors

These are the external causes of diseases, such as climatic factors and epidemic factors.

2) Endogenous Pathogenic Factors

These are the internal causes of diseases, such as extreme emotions, irregular diet and inappropriate work/rest.

3) Pathogens of Pathological Products

These are the pathological products developed from the disturbance of qi and blood circulation. For example phlegm fluid and static blood.

4) Other factors

These include all other factors such as traumatic injuries, parasites, insects and animal bites, and any congenital factors.

These four categories will be discussed in detail in the next seven articles.

Next up, I will be introducing “the Six Climatic Factors”. These are the ones that are most common in causing sickness. However, it is also the ones that are mostly preventable. Stay tuned!

Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac), Alex Hui created this blog to share with the world the treasures in Chinese Medicine (CM).