In TCM, which factor is primarily associated with the occurrence of Wind-Heat?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Wind-Heat is primarily linked to environmental changes. This concept is rooted in the understanding that external pathogens, represented as "Wind," can transmit various diseases, with Heat being one of the qualities associated with these conditions. Wind-Heat typically arises when the body is exposed to sudden climatic changes, such as moving from a cold environment to a hot one, or when there are fluctuations in temperature and humidity.

Environmental influences are considered critical in the development of various conditions in TCM. External factors like the weather can introduce pathogenic Wind and Heat into the body, leading to symptoms such as fever, sore throat, headache, and other signs of an upper respiratory infection. This reflects the TCM belief that the body must maintain harmony with its surroundings to prevent illness.

While emotional stress, dietary factors, and genetic predisposition can influence overall health and may contribute to the body's susceptibility to illness, they do not primarily cause Wind-Heat. Instead, they may alter the body's internal environment or its ability to manage external pathogens, but the direct association of Wind-Heat is strongly tied to environmental changes impacting the body.