Why does redness and swelling occur at the site after cupping in patients with gallstones?

In general, redness and swelling at the site after cupping in patients with gallstones may be caused by excessive negative pressure inside the cup, prolonged cupping duration, allergies, or other reasons. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Excessive Negative Pressure Inside the Cup

Under normal circumstances, cupping can promote the circulation of qi and blood in the body. However, if the negative pressure inside the cup is too high, it may lead to stagnation of qi and blood, impairing their normal flow. This disruption affects normal physiological functions, and the accumulation of excess qi and blood may form lumps, resulting in localized redness and swelling of the skin. Patients can apply ice packs for cold compress within 24 hours after cupping, followed by warm compresses after 24 hours, which may help relieve the symptoms of redness and swelling. If treatment effects are unsatisfactory, wintergreen oil may be applied under a doctor's guidance.

2. Prolonged Cupping Duration

If redness, swelling, and pain appear at the cupping marks, it may be due to excessive suction force or excessively long cupping duration, leading to skin congestion, swelling, and pain. Local warm compresses can be applied, and the swelling usually subsides gradually within one to two days.

3. Allergic Reaction

Since the rim of the cup comes into direct contact with the skin, it may irritate the skin and trigger an allergic reaction, causing local swelling. Under medical guidance, topical medications such as hydrocortisone butyrate cream or mometasone furoate gel can be applied to alleviate redness and swelling.

Besides the three causes mentioned above, redness and swelling could also result from dampness excess, ruptured capillaries, kidney disease, or other conditions. If a patient’s symptoms of redness and swelling persist without improvement, it is recommended to seek further evaluation at a hospital and receive prompt treatment.