Methods of Diagnosis

Inspection, auscultation and olfaction, inquiring, and palpation are known as the four diagnostic methods in traditional Chinese medicine. The case history and clinical symptoms and signs gained through the four diagnostic methods are the basis for further differentiation of the syndrome.

Each of the four diagnostic methods plays a specific role in diagnosing a disease. Only by combining the four can a comprehensive and systematic understanding of the situation of the disease be gained and a correct diagnosis made.

I. INSPECTION

Inspection is a method of diagnosis in which examination is made by observation with the eye. Included are observations of the expression, colour, appearance and tongue.

I. INSPECTION ->Observation of the expression

Expression is the outward manifestation of the vital activities. Generally speaking, if the patient is in fairly good spirits, behaves normally with a sparkle in the eyes and keen response, and if he co-operates with the doctor during examination, the disease is mild. If the patient is spiritless, indifferent in expression, with dull eyes and sluggish response or even mental disturbance, and does not co-operate during examination, the disease is serious.