Treating Post-viral Chronic Fatigue Syndrome from the Perspective of Deficiency of Pectoral and Defensive Qi
10.13288/j.11-2166/r.2025.15.017
- VernacularTitle:从“宗卫气虚”论治病毒感染后慢性疲劳综合征
- Author:
Sheng HUANG
1
;
Hongbo DU
1
Author Information
1. Dongzhimen Hospital，Beijing University of Chinese Medicine，Beijing，100700
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
viral infection;
chronic fatigue syndrome;
pectoral qi;
defensive qi;
qi collaterals
- From:
Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine
2025;66(15):1614-1618
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
Post-viral chronic fatigue syndrome （CFS） is a condition characterized by persistent fatigue during the recovery phase of infectious diseases. It is marked by prolonged duration， not be recovered by sleep， significant brain fog， and post-exertional malaise. This paper has proposed that the core pathogenesis lies in deficiency of pectoral and defensive qi， that is insufficiency in the generation and transformation of pectoral qi and disordered circulation of defensive qi. This results in a state of post-epidemic deficiency fatigue， where both physical form and qi are impaired. Pectoral and defensive qi thrive on "movement without depletion". Consequently， internal treatment emphasizes on replenishing original qi and promoting its circulation to restore pectoral qi by self-designed Pingbu Yihou Xulao Formula （平补疫后虚劳方）. External treatment focuses on regulating the qi collaterals to facilitate defensive qi circulation， achieved through practices such as Baduanjin exercises， maintaining regular daily activity， and breathing techniques to promote the smooth flow of defensive qi.
