this pattern is one of early-stage intestinal abscess, a condition of excess with interior clumping of heat and blood.

poor dietary habits like binging or over-eating in general, or a diet which is high in greasy, rich, raw, or cold foods in particular, can lead to stagnation and obstruction of the stomach and intestines. obstruction of any kind constrains the flow of qi and blood; constraint gives rise to heat, which putrifies the qi and blood in the intestines and eventually forms an abscess.

this condition is also commonly attributed to damp-heat accumulating in the intestines, which similarly obstructs the flow of qi and blood. the clumping of heat and stasis of blood in the intestines manifests as pain (usually in the lower right quadrant of the abdomen) that increases upon pressure, with rebound tenderness. although the pain may extend to the genitals, it can be differentiated from painful urinary dysfunction because urination is normal.

gradually, as the qi and blood continue to putrify, the abscess will form a palpable mass. the ebb and flow of the struggle between the body’s normal qi and the pathogenic influences disturbs the nutritive and protective qi, which manifests as irregular, intermittent fever followed by chills and sweating. the yellow, greasy tongue coating and the slippery, rapid pulse reflect the clogging of the intestines by heat.