I've had liver qi stagnation for several years - nothing major, but it flares up into 'liver heat' (as my Doctor from Asia) calls it. I usually just feel hot, mildly feverish and occassionally have dizziness and can't sleep. I have a flabby, toothmarked tongue, thin, light yellow coating with normal and sometimes pale tongue colour. My vision is slightly blurry sometimes (perhaps dry eyes) Stress is the root of it.

I've asked many doctors if I have liver fire (Gan Huo) or liver yang rising (Gan Yang Shang Kang) or something else, but they always just say it is "Liver Heat".

What is Liver Heat and what is the actual name of these issues that I have?

And lastly, how can I tell if this issue is primarily a deficiency or excess condition?

My doctor always treats me successfully with Xiao Chai Hu Tang (with additional herbs).

Thanks,
Dessy