Syndromes evolve and transform. Observing their transformation gives us information about the prognosis, whether it is improving or worsening.
From exterior to interior
Worsening. Like going from flu to pneumonia: the energy has penetrated from the Tai Yang layer to the Yang Ming layer. See: Diagnosis of the 6 levels
From interior to exterior
This is favorable, a healing process. If skin eruptions appear after treatment, it indicates things are going well.
From heat to cold
Treatment is inadequate or the condition is not being treated. Yang is being damaged and must be restored. For example, dysentery that suddenly becomes a cold pattern: shock, pallor, profuse cold sweating.
From cold to heat
Strong individuals with abundant Yang. The vital energy fights against the pathogenic factor through fever and heat.
From fullness to emptiness
Inadequate treatment or it is the course of the disease. The pathogenic factor is gradually disappearing but so is the vital energy. Exhaustion, weight loss, loss of appetite.
From emptiness to fullness
Due to insufficient vital energy, the person cannot evacuate and food or waste accumulates (Dampness, Phlegm).