The Donguibogam concept of 'phlegm-fluid' can be understood from the perspective of modern medicine as being closely linked to our body's 'fluid balance'. In particular, spinning 'rotational vertigo' is often related to the 'inner ear' inside the ear, which is responsible for our body's balance. The inner ear is filled with 'endolymph', which is similar to lymph, and when changes occur in the amount or composition of this fluid, the brain becomes confused, much like a broken spirit level, leading to severe dizziness.
One of the most common conditions, 'benign paroxysmal positional vertigo', appears when small stones in the vestibular apparatus of the inner ear dislodge from their proper place, while 'Meniere's disease' is a condition where endolymph in the inner ear increases excessively, raising pressure and causing dizziness, tinnitus, hearing loss, and other symptoms. Subtle changes in the fluid within the inner ear serve as an important cause in all of these conditions. The 'phlegm-fluid' spoken of in Donguibogam can be viewed as a comprehensive concept explaining such stagnation or abnormal states of inner ear fluid.
The lifestyle habits of modern individuals easily disrupt this inner ear fluid balance. Excessive stress causes autonomic nervous system imbalance, which leads to vasoconstriction and reduced inner ear blood flow, potentially affecting the production and absorption of endolymph. Additionally, a diet centered on salty and sweet processed foods disrupts the body's water and electrolyte balance, causing edema or fluid retention, which can also adversely affect the microscopic environment of the inner ear. Sleep deprivation and overwork can lower immunity and trigger inflammatory reactions, reducing the function of inner ear organs. All of these ultimately link back to the 'weakened spleen-stomach function' emphasized by Donguibogam.
Because our body consists of an elaborate system, when one part is disturbed, it inevitably affects other parts. Beyond inner ear conditions, diverse causes, including dysautonomia, blood circulation issues from cardiovascular disease, and even side effects from certain medications, can induce dizziness. Yet the core remains the 'healthy circulation of body fluids'. We must not forget that the dizziness warning sent by phlegm-fluid is ultimately an important signal that our body is failing to circulate properly internally.
