Qì ascent

Rapid breathing characterized by more exhalation than inhalation and attributed to inhibited lung qì. Distinction is made between vacuity and repletion. Repletion patterns are caused by phlegm-rheum obstructing the lung or external evils assailing the lung. Phlegm-rheum obstructing the lung is characterized by rapid breathing with coughing of copious thick white phlegm, phlegm rale in the throat, relief felt on exhalation, and inability to lie flat. Qì ascent caused by external evils assailing the lung is characterized by distressed rapid breathing, cough and panting with copious phlegm, aversion to cold with heat effusion, and, in severe cases, by puffy swelling of the face and eyes. Vacuity patterns are usually attributable to yīn vacuity with effulgent fire in which qì ascent is accompanied by cough without phlegm, scant phlegm that is not easily expectorated, short distressed breathing, generalized heat, night sweating, and vexing heat in the five hearts.