Hot compresses
Hot compresses can hasten the resolution of inflammation and infection in the eyelids.
Methods
There are three common techniques:
- The simplest method is to fill a bowl with very hot water from the kitchen tap, wet a flannel in this water, wring it out, and place it over the inflamed area.
- A thermos can be filled with boiling water. The thermos mouth is placed underneath the eyelid, allowing steam to warm the affected skin. You must be careful not to place your eyelid too close to the thermos mouth.
- Finally, you can use a hot wooden spoon. The wooden spoon is heated by placing it in a boiling kettle or pot of water. After a minute or two the spoon is withdrawn and dried carefully on a towel to remove all boiling water. The warm wood is then placed over the eyelid.
Hot compresses should be applied for about 10 minutes, four to six times a day. Please note that due to the application of heat the skin around the area will look pink or reddened after treatment. It is important that you don’t confuse this with progression of infection or inflammation. An assessment of whether the changes in the lid are getting worse should be made an hour or two after treatment, not immediately following treatment.
