Methods of Diagnosis

I. INSPECTION ->Observation of the colour

People of different races have different skin colours, and there is wide variation among people of the same race. However, a lustrous skin with natural colour is considered normal. For instance, the complexion of a healthy Chinese is slightly dark, but shining and ruddy. Morbid complexions are: red, which denotes existence of heat; pallor, which indicates existence of cold or xu (deficiency) of blood; bright yellow, which suggests jaundice; and bluish purple, which is often due to stagnation of blood or severe pain.

As to the clinical significance of the colour of excretions, such as nasal discharge, sputuni, stool, urine and vaginal discharge, those clear and white in colour generally denote xu and cold, while those turbid and yellow in colour indicate shi and heat.

It is advisable to observe colours in daylight, because the true colour is often not revealed under lamplight, especially if the lamp has a coloured tinge.

I. INSPECTION -> Observation of the appearance

Observations are made to see whether the body build of the patient is obese or thin, whether there is abnormality in the gait and the posture of standing, sitting and lying, and whether there is any abnormal movement of the trunk and limbs. For example, in an obese person, there is often xu (deficiency) of qi and much phlegm-damp; while in an emaciated person