Warm compress

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

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.^[2]

Warm Compress demonstrated with a warm, wet towel

For eye problems

Warm 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

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]