Common Symptoms
Cough, sore throat, common cold and flu symptoms, vomiting, diarrhea
Possible Causes
TCM View
- Dampness (湿) and Summer Heat (暑) – Singapore’s hot and humid weather predisposes individuals to damp-heat or暑湿 conditions, leading to fatigue, heaviness, poor appetite, and digestive issues
- Heat / Fire (火) – Commonly seen due to heaty diets, stress, and environmental heat, contributing to sore throat, fever, and inflammatory symptoms
- Cold (寒) – Not from weather, but from lifestyle factors such as prolonged exposure to air-conditioning, frequent consumption of iced drinks, and “cooling” or cold-nature foods, which may weaken digestion and respiratory function
- Wind-cold or wind-heat invasion (风寒 / 风热) – External pathogens entering the body, leading to cough, sore throat, fever, and flu-like symptoms
- Heat and dampness (暑湿 / 湿热) – Singapore’s hot and humid weather predisposes to heat-damp conditions, causing fever, heaviness, fatigue, poor appetite, and sometimes diarrhoea
- Cold exposure in daily habits (寒邪) – Frequent exposure to air-conditioned environments, combined with habits such as drinking iced beverages or consuming “cooling/cold-nature” foods, may weaken the Spleen and Stomach, leading to cough, digestive upset, or loose stools
- Dampness affecting digestion (湿困脾胃) – Results in nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, bloating, and a heavy sensation in the body
- Food accumulation (食积) – Irregular eating habits or overeating can impair digestion, leading to vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal discomfort
Modern View
From a Western medical perspective, acute ailments common causes includes:
- Infections (Viral, bacterial, fungal, or parasitic infections)
- Injuries or trauma (Falls, accidents, burns, or cuts)
- Allergic reactions (Reactions to foods, medications, insect stings, or environmental allergens)
- Exposure to toxins (Food poisoning, chemical exposure, or poisoning)
- Acute exacerbation of a chronic disease (Sudden worsening of asthma, heart failure, or COPD)
- Inflammatory conditions (Appendicitis, acute pancreatitis, or acute arthritis)
- Vascular events (Heart attack or stroke)
How we treat
TCM
Relieving symptoms & supporting recovery
Acupuncture and herbal medicine are used to release external pathogens, clear heat, and relieve cough or digestive symptoms
Restoring digestive balance
Gentle herbal support and dietary advice to manage vomiting, diarrhoea, and appetite
Strengthening the body’s defences
Support for immune function and recovery to prevent recurrence
Western medicine
Common approaches includes:
Antibiotics for bacterial infections, Antiviral or antifungal drugs, Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications, Medicines to reduce symptoms such as fever, nausea, or coughing
Supportive care
Monitoring of symptoms and vital signs
Emergency interventions
Oxygen therapy for breathing difficulties, Intravenous (IV) fluids for dehydration or shock, Emergency medications for severe allergic reactions, heart attacks, or other urgent conditions
Procedures or surgery
Appendectomy for acute appendicitis, Fracture repair for broken bones, Drainage of abscesses or treatment of acute injuries
Lifestyle measures
Avoiding triggers, Temporary activity restrictions to promote healing
Wellness
Practical care advice
Emphasis on rest, hydration, and appropriate diet during recovery