Qi deficiency is a concept from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that refers to a lack of vital energy or life force, known as qi. Symptoms of qi deficiency can vary depending on the organ system affected, but some common symptoms include fatigue, shortness of breath, spontaneous sweating, a swollen tongue with teeth marks on the side, and a weak pulse. Qi deficiency can also be emotional, and feelings of anxiety, depression, and emotional exhaustion can be associated with it. Some possible causes of qi deficiency include aging, chronic medical diseases, stress, and poor diet.
TCM practitioners may recommend rest, diet, acupuncture, and herbal remedies to treat qi deficiency. Western medicine does not have a direct equivalent to the concept of qi, but it is similar to the idea of energy. Some Western medical conditions, such as chronic fatigue syndrome, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders, are believed to be related to qi deficiency. To regulate qi, TCM practitioners recommend getting sufficient restful sleep, exercising regularly, and practicing breathing exercises like yoga.
