Balancing Yin and Yang: Harmonizing Organs as a Complement to Modern Hypertension Treatment
In recent years, the number of hypertension (high blood pressure) patients in Singapore has continued to rise. According to the 2022 National Population Health Survey (NPHS) released by the Ministry of Health in 2023, the prevalence of hypertension among residents aged 18 to 74 has reached 37%, a significant increase from 19.8% in 2010. Many patients are even unaware of their condition. This trend indicates that hypertension has become one of the most common chronic diseases in Singapore and is increasingly affecting younger age groups, posing a major challenge to public health.
How TCM Views Hypertension
Hypertension is not a specific disease name in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), but TCM offers a unique perspective on managing it. In TCM theory, hypertension often involves functional imbalances in the Liver, Kidneys, and Spleen. Its essence lies in the imbalance of Yin and Yang, disorder of Qi and Blood, and disharmony among the internal organs. Common clinical patterns include "Hyperactivity of Liver Yang," "Kidney Yin Deficiency," "Phlegm-Dampness Obstruction," and "Deficiency of Qi and Blood."
TCM believes that hypertension stems from internal and external factors such as emotional distress, improper diet, sedentary lifestyle, and excessive fatigue. Over time, these factors lead to excessive Liver fire, depletion of Kidney essence, and the internal generation of phlegm-turbidity, obstructing the circulation of Qi and Blood and causing blood pressure to fluctuate or rise.
It is important to note that TCM does not simply equate hypertension with "Vertigo" or "Headache." While hypertension may manifest as dizziness, tinnitus, head distension, palpitations, or irritability, the core issue remains organ dysfunction and Yin-Yang imbalance. Treatment focuses on "Syndrome Differentiation"—treating the root cause rather than just the symptoms.
The Dangers of Delaying Treatment
Hypertension is often called the "silent killer" because it frequently presents no obvious symptoms in its early stages. If left uncontrolled, persistent high pressure can damage blood vessels, potentially leading to severe complications such as cerebral hemorrhage, stroke, myocardial infarction (heart attack), and kidney failure.
Conversely, some patients hold the misconception that "the lower the blood pressure, the better." In reality, excessively low blood pressure can lead to insufficient blood supply to the brain, causing dizziness, fatigue, palpitations, or even fainting, which can be life-threatening.
Integrated TCM-Western Approach: Improving Efficacy and Stability
Western medical treatment for hypertension relies primarily on antihypertensive drugs like ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, and diuretics. While these provide quick results, some patients experience significant blood pressure fluctuations, side effects, or the burden of long-term medication.
TCM can complement Western medicine by focusing on constitutional regulation and enhancing the body's self-regulatory abilities:
- Syndrome Differentiation: Using methods such as clearing Liver fire, calming Liver Yang, nourishing Kidney Yin, and transforming phlegm based on individual needs.
- Multi-modal Therapy: Applying herbal medicine, acupuncture, cupping, and auricular (ear) therapy to relieve anxiety, insomnia, head distension, and tinnitus.
- Systemic Regulation: Assisting in the regulation of the nervous and endocrine systems to improve vascular function, stabilize blood pressure, and potentially reduce reliance on Western medication.
How TCM Prevents and Stabilizes Hypertension
The TCM concept of "Preventive Treatment" (Zhi Wei Bing) is crucial for managing blood pressure. For high-risk individuals, Dr Li Rui recommends:
- Regular Routine: Maintain a "sleep early, wake early" habit to avoid damaging the Kidneys through late nights.
- Emotional Care: Avoid anxiety, depression, and anger. Use Tai Chi, meditation, or deep breathing to balance emotions.
- Dietary Habits: Reduce intake of greasy and salty foods. Incorporate "cooling" ingredients like celery, bitter gourd, hawthorn, chrysanthemum, and cassia seeds.
- Moderate Exercise: Engage in 30 minutes of brisk walking daily, or practice traditional exercises like Ba Duan Jin or Tai Chi to promote Qi and Blood flow.
- Herbal Support: Under the guidance of a TCM physician, classic formulas such as Tianma Gouteng Yin or Qiju Dihuang Wan may be used for regulation.
Conclusion
Managing hypertension is a long-term commitment. In Singapore’s fast-paced, humid environment, stress and dietary habits easily trigger blood pressure issues. TCM plays a unique role in regulating the constitution, relieving symptoms, and preventing complications. Dr Li Rui suggests that high-risk individuals undergo a TCM constitutional assessment early. Work with a professional to ensure early detection and regulation, safeguarding your cardiovascular health for the future. Book an appointment at our Yishun TCM clinic today!
