Why do I feel very weak the day after cupping therapy, and what should I do about it?

Generally, feeling weak the day after cupping may be caused by open pores on the body surface, depletion of qi and blood, hypoglycemia, anemia, hypothyroidism, or other factors. Appropriate adjustments such as general conditioning or medical treatment can be chosen based on specific circumstances. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Open Pores on the Body Surface

The negative pressure from cupping causes the skin's pores to dilate, allowing yang energy to easily escape. This temporarily weakens the body's defenses and may lead to a feeling of weakness. It is important to dress warmly to avoid catching a chill, drink plenty of warm water, ensure adequate sleep, and avoid overexertion.

2. Depletion of Qi and Blood

Cupping promotes the circulation of qi and blood, but individuals with a constitutionally deficient condition may experience temporary insufficiency in qi and blood supply, manifesting as fatigue and weakness. Include more tonic foods such as lean meat and red dates in the diet, take gentle walks to promote circulation, and avoid bathing immediately after cupping.

3. Hypoglycemia

If one has not eaten before cupping or already has low blood sugar, the increased energy consumption during cupping may trigger hypoglycemia, resulting in weakness. Immediately consume sugary foods. Before future cupping sessions, eat a moderate meal about one hour beforehand. Under medical guidance, glucose injection, Shengmai Yin oral liquid, or Yiqi Yangxue oral liquid may be used.

4. Anemia

Reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of red blood cells combined with increased oxygen demand after cupping can worsen tissue hypoxia and cause weakness, often accompanied by pallor. Follow medical advice to take ferrous fumarate tablets, ferrous succinate sustained-release tablets, or compound ferrous sulfate and folic acid tablets. Increase intake of iron-rich foods such as animal liver.

5. Hypothyroidism

Insufficient thyroid hormone secretion leads to slowed metabolism, making the body more prone to weakness and fatigue following the stress of cupping. Under medical supervision, take levothyroxine sodium tablets, thyroid tablets, or Yikang capsules, and regularly monitor thyroid function.

Before undergoing cupping, one should understand their physical constitution and avoid the procedure when fasting or fatigued. If weakness persists for more than three days or is accompanied by dizziness or palpitations, seek medical attention promptly. Maintain regular meals, engage in moderate exercise to strengthen constitution, and consult a healthcare professional before cupping if you have pre-existing medical conditions.