What does it mean if hives appear after moxibustion?
Nov 05, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. He Haochen
Introduction
In general, developing hives after moxibustion may be caused by normal physiological responses or acute urticaria.
1. Normal phenomenon: Moxibustion helps expel cold, dampness, and toxins from the body through sweat secretion, commonly manifesting as mild redness, itching, and similar symptoms.
2. Acute urticaria: During moxibustion, patients may develop acute urticaria due to thermal stimulation, resulting in hives.
In general, developing hives after moxibustion may be caused by normal physiological responses or acute urticaria. Patients should manage the condition according to their specific situation. The details are as follows:
1. Normal phenomenon: Moxibustion can appropriately replenish the body's yang energy, helping expel cold, dampness, and toxins through sweat via the skin and meridians. This often manifests as mild redness or itching. Therefore, the appearance of hives after moxibustion is usually normal. Patients need not worry; they should focus on staying warm and getting adequate bed rest.
2. Acute urticaria: During moxibustion, the body surface is exposed to heat, which not only promotes the expulsion of dampness and cold but also increases sweating. The thermal stimulation may trigger acute urticaria in some patients, resulting in hives accompanied by intense itching. It is recommended that patients immediately stop moxibustion and, under medical guidance, take antihistamine medications such as chlorpheniramine tablets or loratadine tablets for treatment.
