A warm compress is a method of applying heat to the body.[1] Heating sources can include warm water, microwaveable pads, wheat packs and electrical or chemical pads. Some unorthodox methods can include warmed potatoes, uncooked rice, and hard-boiled eggs. The most common warm compress is a warm, wet washcloth.[2]
| Warm compress | |
|---|---|
 Microwavable warm compresses used for treatment of different eyelid diseases. |
Uses
editWarm compresses are a common non-pharmacological therapy used in the treatment of things such as sports injuries, dental pain, post-operative wound healing, and ophthalmic conditions. They are believed to improve blood flow, increase oxygenation in tissues and help manage inflammation.[2]
For eye problems
editWarm compresses are commonly used for the treatment of certain ocular conditions such as: [1]
- dry eyes
- pinkeye (conjunctivitis)
- stye or chalazion
- swollen eyelids (blepharitis)
- meibomian gland dysfunction[3]
- muscle spasms or pain
For injury to muscle or joint
editFor both muscle and joint injuries, it is common to alternate both cold and warm compresses to manage inflammation. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroids may also be used in conjunction.[4]
References
edit- ^ a b "Warm Compresses for Eye Problems - Topic Overview". WebMD. Retrieved 15 October 2016.
- ^ a b Jones, Yian Jin; Georgesuc, Dan; McCann, John D.; Anderson, Richard L. (2010). "Microwave Warm Compress Burns". Ophthalmic Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery. 26 (3): 219. doi:10.1097/iop.0b013e3181c063b0. ISSN 0740-9303. PMID 20489556.
- ^ Canter, Julie. "What Is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction?". Webmd.com. Retrieved 24 February 2022.
- ^ Leeper-Woodford, Sandra; Adkinson, Linda (2015). "Chapter 3: Musculoskeletal System". Lippincott Illustrated Reviews: Integrated Systems. Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott Williams and Wilkins. ISBN 978-1451190960.