Why Does My Tongue Have a White Coat and Tooth Marks?

A white tongue coating is generally common in exterior syndromes and cold syndromes. Tooth marks appearing on the edge of the tongue body are mainly seen in symptoms of spleen deficiency and dampness. Therefore, a white tongue coating with tooth marks should belong to spleen deficiency accompanied by cold and dampness syndrome. In terms of treatment, it is recommended to strengthen the spleen, dispel dampness, warm the middle, and tonify deficiency. Herbal formulas such as Xiaojianzhong Tang, Buzhong Yiqi Tang, and Shenling Baishu San can be prescribed with modifications according to the patient's condition. In daily diet, it is advisable to reduce the consumption of cold and chilled foods, and instead, eat some warm and drying foods, such as mutton soup and brown sugar ginger water.

1. Irregular bowel movements: People with spleen deficiency often have bowel movement disorders. Typically, spleen deficiency can lead to frequent diarrhea or loose stools that are difficult to flush away. However, constipation can also occur due to a lack of motility in the gastrointestinal function.

2. Abnormal menstrual flow: Gynecological inflammation in women can also lead to spleen deficiency. Abnormal menstrual flow, excessive or insufficient vaginal discharge, can be indicative of spleen deficiency. The spleen is responsible for regulating blood, and a scanty menstrual flow may be caused by insufficient qi and blood. The amount of menstrual flow is closely related to the spleen, and long-term imbalances can affect the growth of the endometrial lining in women.

3. Stomach distension and pain: Modern lifestyles often involve staying up late for work or entertainment, as well as eating greasy and delicious foods. Over time, this lifestyle can lead to sudden loose stools, fatigue, and lack of energy. Occasional stomach distension and pain can also occur, which is often attributed to spleen deficiency. Eating spicy foods can further aggravate dampness and may cause post-meal abdominal discomfort.

4. Increased saliva secretion: Spleen deficiency can cause memory decline and poor sleep quality. Drooling during sleep is common in children, and occasional occurrences in adults are generally not a concern. However, frequent drooling can be a sign of spleen deficiency. Normally, saliva is not leaked externally, and drooling occurs when the spleen fails to regulate saliva production.