Moist warm packs or compresses can be beneficial when an abscess is close to or ready to drain by helping soften the skin and promote drainage. Below are a few ways to make them at home.
Use one of the following:
Clean washcloth
Flannel
Piece of gauze
Unused tea bag
Heat your water using one of the following methods:
*You do not want your compress to be too hot or dripping wet; semi moistened is sufficient*
Run your item under hot tap water and squeeze the excess water out.
Place a bowl of water in the microwave for about 20 seconds then place your chosen item in the water and wring out.
Moisten your chosen item, put it on a clean plate and place it in the microwave for a few seconds until warm.
Place your moist pack on the area you are trying to treat, place a warmer on top and relax. Keep this on for as long and repeat as many times as needed.
One of the challenges is keeping your hot pack at temperature. Here are a few tips on how to keep your moist pack hot (these products are meant to be used on top of one of the suggestions above).
Microwavable corn or rice filled heating pads with a washable cover
Rubber hot water bottles
Round reusable hot packs
Heating pad -- microfiber moist heating pad made for water preferred. *Please use caution with an electric heating pad over a wet pack as this can cause electrocution. Please invest in a microfiber moist heat type of heating pad that is specifically made for water (safely).
Please use caution when preparing your moist warm packs/compresses; you do not want to burn yourself when removing items from the microwave.
Read more about heat vs. cold for abscesses here.
Content in this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking treatment because of something you have read on this website.
HSconnect.org
Written by Denise Panter-Fixsen
Edited by Brindley Kons