Can moxibustion on the abdomen be used for heatstroke?

Acupuncture with moxibustion should not be used to treat heatstroke. Moxibustion is primarily indicated for cold-related conditions and functions to unblock meridians, promote circulation, dispel wind, and relieve cold. Heatstroke, however, is a metabolic syndrome caused by disruption of the body's temperature regulation in high-temperature environments. Main symptoms include fever, dizziness, and fatigue. Applying moxibustion, which has warming and cold-dispersing effects, may exacerbate the patient's condition. Specific reasons are as follows:

Moxibustion can warm the kidneys, alleviate kidney heat, and reduce pain. Heatstroke typically results from prolonged exposure to heat, humidity, and high temperatures, leading to abnormal bodily responses. Administering treatments that enhance yang energy, warm the kidneys, or stimulate meridian circulation at this time may worsen the heatstroke and hinder recovery.

Heatstroke occurs when prolonged work or physical activity in hot and humid environments disrupts the body’s thermoregulatory mechanisms, causing excessive heat accumulation that cannot be dissipated, thereby leading to metabolic disturbances and a series of severe symptoms. After heatstroke, the patient should immediately be moved to a cool, well-ventilated area, have their clothing loosened to facilitate heat dissipation, and receive cooling measures such as cold compresses. It is also important to replenish fluids with physiological saline or cool beverages. In severe cases, the patient must be promptly transported to a hospital for treatment to avoid life-threatening complications.