Pattern Knowledge

Phlegm Misting the Heart Orifices

The key to this pattern is that turbid phlegm blocks the clear orifices and disturbs mental clarity. In exam stems it often appears with chest oppression, abundant sputum, nausea, mental fogginess, greasy coating, and slippery pulse.

Pattern

Structured knowledge card

pattern
Definition

Phlegm misting the Heart orifices refers to a pattern in which turbid phlegm obstructs the clear orifices and disturbs the mind-spirit.

Clinical Meaning

Turbid phlegm accumulates → clear orifices are obstructed → mental function is disturbed.

Common Patterns / Clues

The tongue may be swollen or greasy-coated, and the pulse is often slippery.

Differentiation

Compared with Heart Blood Deficiency, this pattern has stronger phlegm signs. Compared with Heart Fire, it is more obstructive and turbid than flaming and excess-hot.

Pitfall / Exam Tip

When mental fog, phlegm, nausea, and greasy coat cluster together, think phlegm misting before you think simple Heart deficiency.