Not all bellies are created equal, nor therefore, is all belly pain.
Stomach pain on the left tends to have more to do with organ function, whereas (in women) the left side might pertain more to ovarian function. Generally, belly pain that occurs above the umbilicus pertains to two of the three “yang” systems of the body, either “Shao Yang” or “Yang Ming,” either of which because of their connection to our intestines and digestive enzymes, might be accompanied by thirst for cold drinks, insomnia or agitation (not only as a result of the stomach pain), constipation, chest tightness, blurred vision, or blockage of the ears.
“Yang stomach pain,” as it were, tends to be constant—the abdomen feels firm and hard, resistant to touch. Conversely, pain that occurs below the umbilicus pertains to any one of the three “yin” systems of the body—gastrointestinal, endocrine, and/or hematological, tends to be more intermittent. The abdomen is softer, still tender to the touch, but it occurs more often in people who are prone to diarrhea and sensitive to the cold.
Thirst may still be present, though it is more likely for small sips of warm water, not big gulps of cold. That is because thirst of yin pathologies is a result of the GI tract’s lack of healthy fluids, whereas thirst of yang pathologies is from excessive inflammatory heat. If the same medicine is prescribed to both patients, one will improve and the other will exacerbate.
Yang pathologies might find relief with sour and/or bitter foods and medicinal—those whose mechanism is to drain, purge, and emolliate the abdomen.
Yin pathologies might find relief with sweeter (not by American standards) and more acrid (not by Indian standards) foods—those whose mechanism is to imbue the organs with more energy.
Another great way to distinguish diagnosis is by learning how people find relief.
If passing gas provides relief it is more likely a yang pathology, whereas if a complete bowel movement is needed it is more likely yin. If a hot compress feels good this is DEFINITELY a yin pathology, just as if ice water does it is DEFINITELY yang. A patient suffering from gastrointestinal, hormonal, or hematological weakness wouldn’t wish ice water on their worst enemy! That’s probably not true. People suffering with chronic “yin pathologies” tend to be understandably irritable, henceforth would very likely wish this on their enemies.
Then again, wouldn’t you wish acupuncture on your worst enemy, to transform them into a healthier, happier person to ultimately convert from worst enemy to best friend, or at the least, tolerable human being?
Where is your stomach pain, or that of a loved one?
What makes it better?
What makes it worse?
The answers to these questions and more can help us ascertain an accurate pattern diagnosis!
