this is collapse from roundworms (huijue) caused by heat in the chest and epigastrium (stomach), and cold in the organs (intestines). the intermittent attacks of abdominal pain and vomiting after eating reflect the presence of cold in the organs and the migration of the worms from a cold to a warmer part of the body. the stifling sensation, irritability, and warmth in the chest and epigastrium reflect the presence of heat in the chest.

the roundworm infestation causes collapse manifested as cold hands and feet, and sometimes as vomiting of roundworms. roundworms have an aversion to cold and an attraction to warmth. here they migrate from the intestines toward the chest, the movement of which causes the major symptoms or manifestations.

the root of this disorder is the poor communication between the yin and yang, which both renders the patient more susceptible to infestation, and in turn is aggravated by the presence of the roundworms.