Compresses are usually used to relieve fever or pain. There are 2 types of compresses that are generally used, namely cold and warm compresses. In order for compresses to work effectively, it is important for you to know the benefits and how to use them.
The use of compresses on certain body parts or the whole body can be an alternative way to relieve complaints, such as pain and swelling due to injury. However, compresses cannot work effectively if they are not used properly.
Types of Compresses That Can Be Used
There are two types of compresses that are commonly used to relieve daily complaints, namely:
warm compress
There are two types of hot compresses, or more precisely called warm compresses, namely dry heat and moist heat.
Dry warm compresses can be done with a heating pad, infrared light, or a sauna. Meanwhile, a warm moist compress can use a towel soaked in warm water or a warm bath.
The function of a warm compress is to dilate blood vessels, so that blood flow to cells and body tissues becomes smooth. Warm compresses can also help restore injured body tissue.
In general, the following are some conditions that can be overcome or relieved by giving warm compresses:
- Pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints due to arthritis
- Headache
- Muscle pain or cramps
- Back pain
- Chronic pain, for example in conditions fibromyalgia
- Muscle or joint injuries, such as sprains
- Fever
When using a warm compress, it is important to pay attention to the heat or heat used. Avoid applying a compress with a temperature that is too high because of the risk of causing burns.
Also, keep in mind that warm compresses can't be used for bruises, swelling, or open wounds.
In addition, people who have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, dermatitis, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), bleeding disorders, and nervous disorders such as multiple sclerosis, it may not be recommended to use a warm compress.
If you suffer from one of these diseases, you should consult a doctor before using a warm compress.
Cold compress
Cold compresses can be used to reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation from an injury. When the body is injured, the injured body part will become inflamed, causing pain and swelling.
Inflammation from this injury usually lasts only a short time until the body recovers from the injury. However, to reduce these complaints, you can use a cold compress.
In addition, cold compresses can also be used to treat the following conditions:
- Insect bites
- Itchy skin or sunburn
- Joint pain
- Migraine
- Injury or inflammation of muscle tissue or connective tissue, eg tendonitis and bursitis
A cold compress can be an ice cube or frozen gel wrapped in a cloth, or a towel dipped in cold water.
Cold compresses should not be used on stiff muscles or joints and people who have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure.
Cold compresses are also not recommended for use by people who have complaints of numbness or tingling due to sensory nerve disorders.
Rules for Using a Warm Compress
Warm compresses can be used for a longer duration than cold compresses. However, in general, the recommended time to apply a warm compress is 15-20 minutes.
When you want to use a warm compress, make sure the temperature of the compress is not too hot to prevent burns on the skin. To relieve severe pain, you can soak in warm water for 30 minutes to a maximum of 2 hours. Warm compresses can be used for up to 1–2 weeks at most.
Cold Compress Use Rules
Cold compresses can be used to treat acute or recent injuries, such as bruises or sprains. In the treatment of injuries, cold compresses should only be used within 48 hours.
The recommended time for giving cold compresses is 10-15 minutes to a maximum of 20 minutes. Avoid giving cold compresses for too long because it can inhibit blood circulation and interfere with the healing process of the injury.
Whether you use a warm compress or a cold compress, avoid using a compress that is too hot or too cold. Keep in mind that the use of compresses is only recommended for short home remedies.
If your complaints do not improve after using warm or cold compresses, you should consult a doctor so that treatment can be carried out quickly and safely.