Bloating/Abdominal Distension · Cold-Dampness Trapping the Spleen Pattern

Updated: June 23, 2026

Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM

Reading Time: 7 min

Body Area: Abdomen

Pattern Overview

Cold-Dampness Trapping the Spleen is a pattern in bloating/abdominal distension, characterized by decreased GI motility, abdominal distension, cold pain, heavy sensation, and loose stools. The core pathogenesis is Cold-Dampness invading the Spleen, causing impaired transformation and transport, fluid retention, and gas accumulation.

Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points

| Differentiation Dimension | Manifestations |

Bloating/Abdominal Distension · Damp-Heat Accumulation Pattern

Updated: June 23, 2026

Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM

Reading Time: 7 min

Body Area: Abdomen

Pattern Overview

Damp-Heat Accumulation is a pattern in bloating/abdominal distension, characterized by gut dysbiosis, abdominal distension, sticky mouth, foul-smelling stools, and yellow urine. The core pathogenesis is accumulation of Damp-Heat in the intestines, causing gut dysbiosis, increased gas production, and intestinal inflammation.

Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points

| Differentiation Dimension | Manifestations |

Bloating/Abdominal Distension · Food Stagnation Pattern

Updated: June 23, 2026

Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM

Reading Time: 7 min

Body Area: Abdomen

Pattern Overview

Food Stagnation is a common pattern in bloating/abdominal distension, characterized by delayed food digestion, abdominal distension, sour belching, poor appetite, and nausea. The core pathogenesis is excessive or improper food intake causing stagnation in the Stomach and Intestines, leading to impaired digestion, gas production, and bloating.

Bloating/Abdominal Distension · Liver-Qi Stagnation Pattern

Updated: June 23, 2026

Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM

Reading Time: 7 min

Body Area: Abdomen

Pattern Overview

Liver-Qi Stagnation is a common pattern in bloating/abdominal distension, characterized by autonomic dysfunction, abdominal distension, belching, sighing, and aggravation with stress. The core pathogenesis is emotional stress causing Liver Qi stagnation, which impairs gastrointestinal motility and causes uneven gas distribution.

Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points

| Differentiation Dimension | Manifestations |

Bloating/Abdominal Distension · Spleen-Stomach Deficiency Pattern

Updated: June 23, 2026

Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM

Reading Time: 7 min

Body Area: Abdomen

Pattern Overview

Spleen-Stomach Deficiency is a common pattern in bloating/abdominal distension, characterized by digestive enzyme insufficiency, abdominal distension, poor appetite, fatigue, and loose stools. The core pathogenesis is Spleen Qi deficiency failing to transform and transport, leading to incomplete digestion, gas accumulation, and bloating.

Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points

| Differentiation Dimension | Manifestations |

Bloating / Abdominal Distension: TCM Acupuncture Points & Herbal Relief Guide

Updated: June 22, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 8 min
Body Area: Abdomen / Digestive System

Overview

Functional bloating and abdominal distension are among the most common gastrointestinal complaints, with studies suggesting 15–30% of adults experience regular episodes. The sensation of abdominal fullness, visible swelling, and excessive gas can significantly affect comfort, body image, and social confidence. While bloating often accompanies other functional GI disorders like IBS and functional dyspepsia, it can also present as an isolated concern—particularly after meals or during periods of stress.