6 Signs of Sub Health

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A person who has mild symptoms such as a dry mouth or a runny nose can still be unhealthy from a TCM perspective, even without suffering from the usual illnesses like fever or flu. Find out what it means to have sub-health and know some warning signs.

“Sub-health is imbalance in the body that has not developed into an illness yet,” explains Physician Lin Jiayi, who is based at the Eu Yan Sang TCM Clinic at Serangoon Nex.

“A person who has sub-health can just feel uncomfortable. If she goes to a hospital to do a check-up, she would not be diagnosed with a disease.” This is because Western medicine tends to identify illness by the presence of specific pathogens.

However, TCM evaluates health by observing the overall state of the body. While sub-health usually does not cause major discomfort, it indicates an imbalance in the body that might lead to more serious conditions or illness. That is why TCM physicians advise that one should monitor one’s health for symptoms of sub-health.

What causes sub-health?

Imbalance in the organ systems is the most common cause of sub-health.

In TCM, one’s well-being is dependent on the harmonious relationships between five major organs— the Heart, Liver, Spleen, Lungs and Kidneys. In TCM, each organ is a system of functions that is not limited to the functions of the anatomical organs. For example, the Heart is thought to influence the Blood as well as the emotions. The organs also have interdependent relationships with each other: the Heart supports the Spleen, while the Spleen is restricted by the Liver.

Sub-health can be the result of issues in a specific organ or, more typically, issues that affect more than one organ. “When it comes to sub-health, normally more than one organ is causing the problem,” Physician Lin notes.

Common Signs of Sub-health

Signs of sub-health can be easy to overlook. Be aware of these common symptoms.

Sign 1: Insomnia

Possible cause: A common cause of sleeping difficulties is Heart fire — too much Yang or too little Yin in the Heart system. This leads to an excess of heat that disturbs the mind and body. According to Physician Lin, Heart fire often occurs together with Liver fire because the two organs have a close functional relationship.

Sign 2: Irritability

Possible cause: The feeling of being irritated or stressed might be caused by stagnation of Liver Qi, meaning the flow of Qi through the Liver has been impeded. This prevents the Liver from effectively carrying out its functions, which include the regulation of emotions.

Sign 3: Runny nose in the morning

Possible cause: A runny nose or sneezing in the morning may indicate a deficiency in Lung Qi. Other symptoms of deficient Lung Qi include shortness of breath, being susceptible to flu and sweating easily.

Sign 4: Constipation

Possible cause: Deficiency in the Spleen can cause difficulty with bowel movements. Spleen deficiency may also lead to other digestive issues such as bloating and gastric pain. “Many people have deficient Spleen Qi because of their lifestyle,” reveals Physician Lin. “They consume too much junk food and cold drinks, and eat at irregular intervals.”

Sign 5: Frequent urination

Possible cause: A need to pee more frequently, especially at night, might be caused by a deficiency in the Kidney system. Another sign of Kidney deficiency is lower back pain.

Sign 6: Hair loss

Possible cause: Hair loss is often caused by a deficiency in the Kidney and Liver systems. These organs govern the Blood and nourishment of the body, and are closely linked.

Simple remedies for sub-health

To restore a person’s balance, a physician may recommend treatments or diet and lifestyle changes that target specific organs. Here are some possible remedies:

For conditions caused by Heart fire: Drink cooling teas such as Chrysanthemum and Lophatherum Herb (Danzhuye, 淡竹叶). It also helps to go to bed earlier.
For conditions caused by Kidney and Liver deficiency: Take Fleeceflower Root (Heshouwu, 何首乌) which works on the Liver, Kidneys, and Blood.
For conditions caused by weak Spleen: Avoid cold food, cooling food, and raw food.
Do not overeat and have meals at regular intervals.

From the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, your body constitution can be broadly categorized into 10 types. In this one-to-one personal session with the physician, you can find out about your current dominant body constitution. Getting to know one’s body constitution is the first important step towards taking control of your own health. Eu Yan Sang TCM Health Constitution Report includes lifestyle-changing tips and simple recipes that can benefit your particular body. Let the physician be your personal guide to nurse yourself back to optimal wellness.

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13-pager comprehensive report in both English and Mandarin
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How TCM Works

TCM treats the mind, body and spirit as a single entity. This holistic approach is derived from fundamental beliefs in the Chinese culture, which emphasise the inseparable nature of Man with the Universe, as well as the need for balance and harmony.

When a person’s vital life force, known as Qi (气, pronounced “chi”), flows smoothly through the body, it establishes a balance between his spiritual, emotional, mental and physical realms. Similarly, the person needs to function in harmony with his environment, which includes acclimatising himself to the climate and the changes in his daily lifestyle.

If that flow and balance is upset, disease and illness will arise.

TCM employs a system of diagnosis, therapy and medication to restore that balance by boosting the body’s immune system in an attempt to fight off pathogens.

A TCM treatment usually includes a combination of medicinal herbs, nutritional therapies, physical treatments such as acupuncture, moxibustion, cupping, massage or Tuina, and therapeutic exercises such as taichi and related breathing techniques.

Acupuncture 101: 7 Must-Know Facts Before You Try It

Curious about acupuncture but not sure what to expect? This quick read unpacks 7 essential facts, from how it works to what it really feels like, so you can feel more confident stepping into your first session.

1. Sterile and Single-Use Needles

Every acupuncture needle is used once and then safely disposed of. Our Clinics follow strict hygiene standards, so you can rest assured it's clean and safe.

2. Needles Are Hair-Thin

Worried it might hurt? Most first-timers are surprised at how fine the needles are, often as thin as a strand of hair (between 0.12mm & 0.30mm). Many people feel only a slight sensation or nothing at all.

3. Not All Needles Are the Same

Needles come in different lengths and thicknesses. Our TCM physicians select them based on the part of the body being treated and the condition at hand; it’s not one-size-fits-all.

4. Recognised by the W.H.O

The World Health Organization recognises acupuncture as an effective treatment for over 100 conditions, including migraines, back pain, and stress-related disorders.

_{Source: Acupuncture: review and analysis of controlled clinical trials, World Health Organization (W.H.O) 2003}

5. What Will You Feel?

You might experience a dull ache, tingling, or warmth at the needle site. Many report feeling deeply relaxed during or after the session, sometimes even energised.

6. There Are 361 Classical Acupuncture Points

According to the World Health Organization (W.H.O) Standard Acupuncture Nomenclature, your body has 361 primary acupoints. Each one helps regulate energy flow and restore internal balance.

_{Source: Standard Acupuncture Nomenclature World Health Organization (W.H.O) 1993}

5. Back to Balance

Acupuncture is not just for pain. It’s a holistic therapy designed to restore balance across your body systems, from digestion to sleep to mood regulation.

Getting Started with Acupuncture

Acupuncture is widely practised in TCM clinics all over the world and in Singapore. Look for licensed practitioners who are registered with the Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners Board to ensure you're in good hands.

Ready to explore acupuncture for yourself?

Book a session or drop by your trusted Eu Yan Sang TCM clinic near you and start your wellness journey, one point at a time.

Emotions and Organs: A Deep Connection

Have you ever wondered why anger seems to knot your stomach or why grief makes your chest feel heavy?

Emotions aren't just fleeting experiences; they're like threads weaving through the fabric of our lives, influencing our health and well-being in ways we might not always recognise. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) sees emotions as intertwined with our organs and the elements they represent. When everything's in sync, it's like a beautiful symphony. But throw in some disharmony, and it's more like a clamour of noise.

Here’s how five key emotions can cause imbalances and impact physical health:

1. Anger

Organ: Liver
Effects: Anger causes the ‘Qi’ to rise, disrupting its smooth flow. This can result in tension, frustration, headaches, dizziness, and hypertension. Over time, chronic anger may lead to liver damage, affecting detoxification and digestion.
Symptoms: High blood pressure, migraines, digestive issues, and menstrual irregularities.

2. Overjoy

Organ: Heart
Effects: While joy is generally positive, excessive joy or overexcitement can overstimulate the heart, leading to a scattering of the Heart ‘Qi’. This may cause restlessness, insomnia, palpitations, and general anxiety.
Symptoms: Heart palpitations, insomnia, agitation, and difficulty concentrating.

3. Grief

Organ: Lungs
Effects: Sadness and grief deplete the Lung ‘Qi’, weakening the lungs and immune system. This can lead to respiratory issues, fatigue, and a diminished ability to ward off infections.
Symptoms: Shortness of breath, frequent colds, and a weakened immune system.

4. Worry and Overthinking

Organ: Spleen
Effects: Excessive worry and overthinking impair the Spleen's ability to transform and transport food and fluids. This can lead to digestive issues, muscle tension, and a weakened ability to assimilate nutrients.
Symptoms: Digestive problems, weight gain or loss, muscle fatigue, and decreased energy levels.

5. Fear

Organ: Kidneys
Effects: Fear depletes Kidney ‘Qi’, affecting the kidneys and adrenal glands. This can result in issues with growth and development, problems related to water metabolism and reproductive health.
Symptoms: Lower back pain, urinary problems, reproductive issues, and feelings of chronic fatigue.

This intricate interplay underscores the dynamic equilibrium necessary for optimal health and well-being. When one element dominates or is weakened, disharmony ensues, leading to physical ailments, emotional disturbances, or mental imbalances.

So how do we find balance?

Understanding the intricate web of connections between the Five Elements, organs, and emotions is essential for cultivating holistic health in TCM. To manage these imbalances, it's important to address both their emotional and physical aspects.

Here are detailed tips for each emotion:

1. Managing Anger 😠

Exercise: Engage in physical activities such as jogging, swimming, or martial arts to release pent-up energy and reduce tension.
Acupressure and Acupuncture: Seek treatments targeting the Liver meridian to promote the smooth flow of ‘Qi’.
Diet: Avoid excessive alcohol and spicy foods, and incorporate cooling foods like cucumber, mint, and green leafy vegetables.

2. Managing Excessive Joy 😊

Moderation: Cultivate a balanced lifestyle to avoid overstimulation. Practice mindfulness to remain grounded.
Relaxation Techniques: Engage in relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises and progressive muscle relaxation.
Herbal Remedies: Use calming herbs like valerian root, chamomile, and lavender to soothe the mind.

3. Managing Sadness and Grief 😢

Social Connections: Maintain strong social connections and seek support from friends and family.
Breathing Exercises: Practice deep breathing exercises to strengthen Lung ‘Qi’ and improve respiratory function.
Outdoor Activities: Spend time in nature to uplift your mood and enhance Lung capacity.

4. Managing Worry and Overthinking😟

Balanced Diet: Avoid excessive sugar and processed foods. Eat warm, cooked meals that support Spleen health, like oats, sweet potatoes, and carrots.
Exercise: Regular physical activity helps reduce stress and improve digestive function.
Herbal Support: Use herbs such as ginger, cinnamon, and licorice root to strengthen the Spleen and improve digestion.

5. Managing Fear 😨

Hydration: Drink plenty of water to support Kidney function.
Kidney Health: Keep your lower back warm and practice exercises that strengthen the lower back and kidneys, like yoga or Tai Chi.
Diet: Incorporate foods that nourish the kidneys, such as black beans, walnuts, and seaweed.
Therapy: Engage in therapy to address underlying fears and anxieties.

The Five Elements Theory of TCM offers a captivating lens through which to view your health and emotions. So the next time you feel a surge of excitement that leaves your heart racing and your body tingling with anticipation, remember the elemental forces at play and let them guide you toward inner harmony.

By addressing both the emotional and physical aspects of health, you can effectively manage emotional imbalances and promote overall well-being. If you're seeking guidance on your journey to wellness, our team of experts is here to assist you in creating a personalised path to wellness.

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