A Case Report of Traditional Korean Medicine Treatment with Modified Palmijihwang-tang in a Male Patient in His 20s Presenting with Chronic Fatigue
Abstract
Objective: This case report describes the clinical course of a male patient in his 20s with unexplained chronic fatigue who showed marked clinical improvement following traditional Korean medicine treatment.Methods: The patient presented with severe fatigue, chronic constipation, and bradycardia. Based on a diagnosis of Kidney Yang deficiency, he was treated with a modified Palmiijihwang-tang decoction, acupuncture, and moxibustion. Clinical progress was evaluated through subjective symptom reports, physical examinations, the EuroQol 5-Dimension 5-Level (EQ-5D-5L) Health Questionnaire, pulse rate tracking via wearable devices, and pulse wave analysis (3D-MAC).Results: Following treatment, the patient experienced substantial improvements in fatigue and sleep quality and his constipation resolved. Bradycardia improved, with a minimum heart rate increasing from 40 bpm to 50-60 bpm. Pulse wave analysis indicated improved energy distribution patterns. EQ-5D-5L index scores increased from 0.662 to 0.920 and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores from 30 to 80, reflecting a substantial improvement in quality of life.Conclusion: This case suggests that individualized traditional Korean medicine therapy may effectively improve systemic function, even in young patients with unexplained fatigue. Both subjective reports and objective physiological indicators support its potential as a holistic therapeutic option.
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