Cold compresses and hot compresses have opposite effects. While some help to reduce blood flow, the others increase blood circulation, so knowing when to use them is important to obtain the desired effect.
Cold compresses, for example, reduce blood flow and are therefore ideal for helping to de-bloat and relieve pain, and are recommended for trauma situations, such as blows, sprains or injections. Hot compresses promote the dilation of blood vessels and reduce muscle tension, promoting relaxation, and can be used when there is back pain, purple spots on the skin, pimples, boils or torticollis, for example.
A compress is an absorbent material that can be used to apply cold or heat to a region of the body, and can also be used to apply medication, poultice or cover a wound, and can be made of cotton, mesh or gel.
When to use a hot compress
The warm or hot compress promotes increased local blood flow, increases mobility and promotes relaxation, and can be used in some situations, such as:
- Muscle pain;
- Hematomas;
- Boil and stye;
- Torticollis;
- Before physical activity.
The hot or warm compress can be placed on the back, chest or any place on the body that requires increased blood flow, however it is not recommended to be done when you have a fever, for example, as there may be an increase in temperature body.
The warm compress can be used 3 to 4 times a day, for 15 to 20 minutes, but it must always be wrapped in a cloth diaper or other thin fabric, so that the skin is not burned.
How to make a hot compress at home
To make a hot compress at home, simply use a pillowcase and 1 kg of dry grains, such as rice or beans, for example. You must place the grains inside the pillowcase, tie tightly to form a bundle, heat in the microwave for about 3 to 5 minutes, let it cool and apply to the painful area for 15 to 20 minutes.
If, even when using ice or hot water, the pain does not decrease or the symptoms worsen, you should go to the doctor so that tests can be carried out to identify the cause of the pain and, thus, specific treatment can be indicated.
When to use cold compress
Cold compresses with ice reduce blood flow in the region, reducing inflammation and pain, as well as preventing the appearance of bruises. Therefore, this type of compress is recommended for:
- After blows, falls or twists;
- After taking an injection or vaccine;
- In toothache;
- Na tendinitis;
- After physical activity.
How to make a cold compress at home
To make a cold compress at home, simply wrap a bag of frozen vegetables, for example, in a towel or cloth and apply it to the painful area for 15 to 20 minutes.
Another possibility is to mix 1 part alcohol with 2 parts water and place in a bag. ziploc and leave in the freezer. The contents should not be completely frozen, and can be shaped as needed. The method of use is the same.
Bibliography
- SOUZA, Juliano Castro de; UEDA, Tiago Kijoshi. The effects of cryotherapy on acute inflammatory processes: a review study. Amazônia Science & Health Magazine – Propesq. Vol.4. n.2; 37-41, 2014
- FURLAN, Renata Maria Moreira Moraes. The use of cryotherapy in the treatment of temporomandibular disorders. Rev. CEFAC. Vol.17. n.2; 648-655, 2015
