Invasion of the lung by the liver fire

Clinical manifestations : Burning pain in the costal and hypochondriac regions ; paroxysmal cough or even hemoptysis in severe cases ; quick temper, irritability, restlessness, heat sensation in the chest, bitter taste in the mouth ; dizziness, red eyes ; a red tongue with thin yellow coating and a string - taut, rapid pulse.

Etiology and pathology : This syndrome is often due to mental depression leading to obstruction of the liver qi which turns into fire. The upward invasion of the lung by the liver fire results in this syndrome. Obstruction of qi turns into hyperactive fire and impairs the liver ' s function in promoting the free flow of qi, manifesting as burning pain in the costal and hypochondriac regions, quick temper and irritability. Upward invasion of the lung by the liver qi and fire impairs the lungs descending function, leading to paroxysmal cough. Injury of the vessels of the lung by fire and heat creates hemoptysis. Flaring up of the liver fire gives rise to restlessness, heat sensation in the chest, bitter taste in the mouth, dizziness and red eyes. A red tongue with thin, yellow coating and string - taut, rapid pulse are both signs of hyperactivity of the liver fire in the interior.