Atherosclerosis of the Cerebral Arteries: Understanding the TCM Pathogenesis

Atherosclerosis of the cerebral arteries can be better understood through the lens of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). From a pathophysiological perspective, there is a general consensus that the condition involves a combination of fundamental deficiency and superficial excess. The fundamental deficiency primarily involves the spleen and kidney systems, while the superficial excess is characterized by the accumulation of phlegm and blood stasis.

Internal Imbalances and Their Effects

In the framework of the Five Element theory within TCM, the spleen is associated with earth and governs transformation and transportation, while the kidneys are associated with water and regulate fluid metabolism. When the spleen is weak, its ability to lift and transport clear qi is compromised. This dysfunction affects the body's capacity to manage fluids, leading to internal accumulation of dampness, which then transforms into phlegm. This phlegn combined with impaired blood circulation (blood stasis) contributes to vascular damage and arterial hardening.

Dietary Habits and Disease Development

Modern lifestyle improvements have led to significant changes in dietary patterns. Most households now regularly consume meat and seafood, which in TCM are considered rich, greasy foods that can easily burden the body's internal systems. These types of foods are described as "fat, sweet, and heavy," and while they may be nourishing in moderation, they can overwhelm the spleen's digestive and metabolic functions when consumed excessively.

The Role of the Spleen in Health and Disease

The spleen plays a crucial role in digestion, nutrient absorption, and the transformation of food into usable energy and blood. However, when faced with excessive intake of rich foods, the spleen becomes overworked and weakened over time. This leads to impaired metabolism and the formation of pathological products such as phlegm and stagnant blood, which are key contributors to the progression of cerebral atherosclerosis.

External and Internal Factors in Disease Formation

While genetic and constitutional factors may play a role, most of the contributing causes of this condition are related to lifestyle and postnatal influences. Poor dietary choices, lack of physical activity, and chronic stress can all weaken the spleen and impair kidney function, thereby promoting the development of atherosclerosis from a TCM perspective.