A moxa sore, produced deliberately in scarring moxibustion, is expected to suppurate for two to three weeks and then heal. Care consists of keeping it clean and covered, avoiding trauma and avoiding the site in further treatment until it has healed. Signs of spreading redness, foul discharge or fever indicate infection and require medical attention.
After ordinary moxibustion the patient may notice warmth, redness or mild thirst, all normal. Advice is to avoid cold and wind for a few hours, to drink warm fluids and not to bathe immediately. The classical instruction to avoid cold after moxibustion is the origin of much of the aftercare advice still given today.