Precedence of signs over the pulse

A principle that applies when an apparent contradiction exists between the pulse and other signs, and these other signs should be taken as a truer indicator of the condition. For example, in gastrointestinal heat bind, characterized by abdominal pain that refuses pressure, constipation, and a thick parched yellow tongue fur, the appearance of a slow fine pulse reflects only misleading side effects of the condition—the interior heat bind impairing qì dynamic and the smooth flow of blood through the vessels. The signs therefore take precedence over the pulse.