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Using ice and hot water correctly can help you recover faster from a blow, for example. Ice can be used up to 48 hours after an injection, and in case of toothache, bump, sprain, knee pain and falls, while hot water can be used when there is pain in the spine, purple spots on the skin, pimples , boils and stiff necks, for example.
The ice decreases blood flow in the region, helps to deflate and has an analgesic effect that starts after 5 minutes of use. Hot water, on the other hand, promotes the dilation of blood vessels and decreases muscle tension, promoting relaxation.
When to make hot compress
The warm or hot compress promotes an increase in local blood flow, increases mobility and promotes relaxation, which can be done in some situations, such as:
- Muscle pain;
- Bruises;
- Furuncle and sty;
- Torticollis;
- Before physical activity.
The hot or warm compress can be placed on the back, chest or anywhere on the body that requires increased blood flow, however it is not recommended to do it 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 should 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, just use a pillowcase and 1 kg of dry grains, such as rice or beans, for example. You should put the beans in the pillowcase, tie tightly to form a bundle, heat in the microwave for about 3 to 5 minutes, let it warm 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 even intensifies, you should go to the doctor for tests to be carried out to identify if there was a cause of the pain, which could be a fracture, for example.
When to do ice pack
Cold compresses with ice promote a decrease in blood flow in the region, reduce swelling and inflammation and, therefore, are indicated:
- After strokes, falls or twists;
- After taking an injection or vaccine;
- In toothache;
- In tendonitis;
- After physical activity.
To make a cold compress at home, simply wrap a bag of frozen vegetables, for example, in a towel or cloth and apply to the painful area for 15 to 20 minutes. Another possibility is to mix 1 part of alcohol with 2 parts of water and put it in a bag ziploc and leave it in the freezer. The contents should not be completely frozen, and can be shaped, as needed. The mode of use is the same.
Clarify more questions about cold and hot compresses in the following video: