Warm Compress for Eye
It is not uncommon for your eye doctor to instruct you to use warm compresses for eye ailments. This is often the case if you suffer from dry eyes, an eyelid stye, Meibomian gland dysfunction or blepharitis. Applying a warm compress in these situations is very beneficial and helps ease your discomfort.
However, it is important to see your doctor if you are experiencing eye pain or discomfort because there are many conditions which can affect this area. Without a professional evaluation, you will not know if your ailment stems from a bacterial or viral infection, conjunctivitis, sinusitis, styes, allergies and so forth.
How Does Warm Compress for Eye Help?
Warm compress is especially helpful when you suffer from blepharitis and Meibomian gland dysfunction. These ailments cause eyelid debris to form on your eyelashes. The moisture from the warm compress will loosen it for easier removal. You do not want to tug and pull at your eyelids as you can cause serious damage. Additionally, warm compresses assist the glands in your eyelids to work normally. This is very important because it enables your eyelid glands to make more fluid oil and relieve dry eye problems. If you are suffering from a stye, applying a warm compress to your eye will help the body heal itself by increasing the blood flow to the area.
How to Apply Warm Compress for Eye
The use of a warm compress is very common, but you may also have a need for medication or other forms of treatment.
To apply a warm compress for your eye, follow these steps:
- Thoroughly wash your hands before handling the warm compress so you do not transfer germs.
- Get a soft, clean cloth about the size of a washcloth and fold into thirds lengthwise.
- Turn on tap water so that it runs warm and fill a small to medium size bowl with the water.
- Put the folded washcloth in the bowl and thoroughly wet it.
- While bending over a sink or towel, take the folded washcloth out of the bowl. Do not squeeze the excess water from the cloth. Go straight to gently pressing it on your affected eye, keeping it closed. Put the washcloth back in the water every 10-15 seconds to keep it warm. Reapply to your eye. Repeat these steps for about five minutes.