Shi chuang (damp sores)
Eczema
Itchy, dry and flaring. Constitution, diet and environment behind recurring eczema.
When people come in
- Itch that disturbs sleep
- Flares with weather or stress
- Long-term reliance on steroid creams
The Chinese medicine view
TCM calls eczema damp sores: flares are usually damp-heat, long-standing cases blood deficiency with dryness, tied to how the Spleen handles fluids.
Common patterns
Damp-heat
Red, weeping, intensely itchy
Spleen deficiency with damp
Recurring flares, loose stools
Blood deficiency with dryness
Dry, flaky skin, itch at night
Patterns are identified by a practitioner through all four examinations. They are here to explain the thinking, not for self-diagnosis.
The medical view
Eczema needs consistent moisturising and avoiding irritants. Weeping, crusting, pus or fever may mean infection and need prompt care. Do not stop prescribed steroids abruptly on your own.
Weeping, pus, rapid spread or fever: seek prompt care.
What the consultation covers
The rash, triggers, diet and sleep guide oral herbs, herbal washes or acupuncture, with skincare advice.
Therapies that may be discussed: Herbal medicine
What to bring
- Photos of flares
- Creams and medication in use
- Possible triggers: food, fabrics, weather
Questions
Do herbal washes help?
Some people find them soothing, but they are chosen for your skin, with care on broken skin.
Do I need a strict diet?
Advice is individual; there is no need to cut out whole food groups by default.
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