Warm compress explained

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]

Uses

Warm 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.

For eye problems

Warm compresses are commonly used for the treatment of certain ocular conditions such as:

• dry eyes
• pinkeye (conjunctivitis)
• stye or chalazion
• swollen eyelids (blepharitis)
• meibomian gland dysfunction^[3]
• muscle spasms or pain

For injury to muscle or joint

For 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]

Notes and References

1. Web site: Warm Compresses for Eye Problems - Topic Overview. WebMD. 15 October 2016.
2. Jones. Yian Jin. Georgesuc. Dan. McCann. John D.. Anderson. Richard L.. 2010. Microwave Warm Compress Burns. Ophthalmic Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery. en. 26. 3. 219. 10.1097/iop.0b013e3181c063b0. 20489556. 0740-9303.
3. Web site: What Is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction?. Julie. Canter. Webmd.com. 24 February 2022.
4. Book: Leeper-Woodford, Sandra. Lippincott Illustrated Reviews: Integrated Systems. Adkinson. Linda. Lippincott Williams and Wilkins. 2015. 978-1451190960. Philadelphia, PA. Chapter 3: Musculoskeletal System.