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Gua sha is a familiar summer custom in many families, yet signs of heat illness always come first. Here is how to decide what care fits the moment.

Looking after one another in the heat

Sydney summers can be hard on older people, young children and anyone living with a long-term illness. In some families, scraping the skin with a gua sha tool is a familiar summer custom. It is a tradition many people value, yet it should never draw attention away from signs that someone may be seriously affected by heat.

When medical care comes first

Confusion, fainting, vomiting, a very high temperature, or symptoms that are unusual or getting worse call for prompt medical help rather than a home remedy. Contacting a doctor or emergency services is the caring choice in those moments. A long history of use does not replace an assessment of how unwell a person really is.

Older adults may not feel thirsty even when they need fluids, and some medicines make heat harder to cope with. Checking in on neighbours and relatives during very hot weather is a simple act of care.

Preparing for a non-urgent visit

For a routine appointment with Dr Christine Shen, Acupuncturist, at the Lane Cove clinic, it helps to describe:

• what happened and when the discomfort began;
• how much the person has been drinking;
• regular medicines, including fluid tablets or blood thinners;
• every symptom, even ones that seem minor.

The starting question is what kind of care suits the situation, not which technique is linked to the season.

Gentle follow-up

If gua sha does go ahead, mention any tenderness, irritation or unexpected bruising before another session. The tool and pressure should be chosen for the individual, not to match a picture of deep red skin. Christine can then suggest continuing, adapting the approach or trying something else.

For families caring for grandparents through a heatwave, a cool room, regular sips of water and a watchful eye are often the kindest support of all. Talk with Christine whenever you are unsure, and keep the GP in the loop for anything that troubles you.