A patient was suffering from pneumonia, with symptoms persisting for nearly two weeks. Another TCM practitioner had previously prescribed an herbal formula, which provided some relief but failed to fully resolve the condition. Throughout this period, the patient was also on steroid medication, but it did not significantly alleviate their symptoms.
Last Friday, after discussing their symptoms, I formulated a new herbal prescription tailored to their condition.
Pre-Treatment Symptoms
- No fever
- Generalized muscle weakness with mild pain
- Severe coughing and wheezing
- Unable to lie flat due to breathing discomfort
- Itchy throat
- Rattling sound in the airway
- Foamy sputum and difficult-to-expectorate white phlegm
- Severe coughing leading to urinary incontinence
By Saturday morning, the patient felt so unwell that they went to the ER for blood tests and a chest X-ray, with an initial oxygen saturation of 93%.
By Sunday evening, they received their prescribed Chinese herbal medicine and took the first dose that night.
Progress After Herbal Treatment
✔ Monday morning: The patient felt significantly better, began to expectorate phlegm, and noticed relief from steroid-induced discomfort. They were also able to lie down and sleep comfortably.
✔ Wednesday (after three doses): Coughing had nearly stopped, and oxygen levels improved to 95-96%. The patient reported feeling almost fully recovered.
Herbal Formula Theory & Diagnosis
🔹 “Coughing with shortness of breath and rattling sound in the throat—Shegan Mahuang Tang (射干麻黄汤) is the primary prescription.”
When Taiyang syndrome leads to fluid retention in the chest, the body cannot expel it through sweating, resulting in “cold phlegm retention” (寒饮). When cold phlegm ascends to the lungs, it triggers persistent coughing.
Since fluid congestion in the chest prevents the lungs from fully expanding, the patient experiences shortness of breath and difficulty inhaling. As respiration moves fluid from the chest to the throat, the interaction between phlegm and airflow creates a rattling sound (often described as similar to a “water chicken” noise).
Final Note
Disclaimer: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) emphasizes syndrome differentiation and individualized treatment. The above case study is shared solely for educational and discussion purposes among TCM enthusiasts and should not be considered medical advice.
If you are experiencing health issues, please seek medical attention from a qualified healthcare professional.
Recently, many people have been experiencing colds, fevers, and coughs. Please take necessary precautions and stay protected.