Treating swelling, better compress with warm or cold water?

The most appropriate way to treat swelling, whenever and however it occurs, is to compress it so that it heals quickly and the pain goes away. But which one is better for relieving swelling: compress using warm water or cold water. Indeed, is there a difference?

Warm compresses of water to treat old swelling

A warm compress is usually used to relieve chronic or long-standing muscle or joint pain.

Warm temperatures can widen blood vessels so that blood flow and oxygen supply can more easily reach the affected part of the body. This helps the muscles relax and reduces pain. The warmth will also reduce stiffness and increase the range of motion of the painful body part.

The temperature used for compressing must be considered so that it is not too hot. The recommended temperature for a warm compress is around 40-50 degrees Celsius. Make it a habit not to compress for more than 20 minutes, unless your doctor recommends it.

Although it can be used to reduce pain, it should be noted that warm compresses of water are not recommended for use on new wounds or for less than 48 hours because they will worsen the condition of the wound due to fluid buildup at the injured site and increase pain. Warm compresses should also not be used on open wounds and wounds that still look swollen.

Cold compresses to treat swelling that just happened

Cold water compresses are usually used within 24 to 48 hours after an injury in order to minimize inflammation. This is because low temperatures can stimulate blood constriction and slow blood flow at the injury site. In the injured area, there is an inflammatory process and damage to the blood vessels which will cause the blood cells to leave the blood vessels and cause the skin to turn bluish red.

Wrap the compress first with a towel so that the cold temperature does not touch the skin directly. You shouldn't apply the cold pack for more than 20 minutes. Remove the compress after 20 minutes, and give it a break for 10 minutes before starting to compress again.

Which is better for treating swelling?

Actually this depends on the swelling that is experienced. A cold compress is better for bruises or swelling from a recent impact. For swelling from a joint injury or long-standing stiffness, a hot compress is even better. Also pay attention to the temperature of the compress so that it doesn't get too hot and it actually causes burns. Avoid using hot compresses on skin that has been injured due to infection or other wounds.

In addition, use of hot or cold compresses should be avoided in people who experience sensory nerve disorders (feeling numb and cannot distinguish between hot and cold). In these people, they cannot feel whether the compress is too cold or too hot which can harm the skin and surrounding structures.