5 Ways To Make Cold Compress At Home

When you make a first aid box, a cold pack is one of the most important things you should put in it. A cold compress helps reduce inflammation, bleeding and bruising during the first 48 hours after an injury occurs. The cold temperature restricts circulation and causes blood vessels to constrict, which prevents further bleeding. Also, the cold temperature offers a numbing effect on the nerves, which plays a key role in reducing swelling and inflammation. It can also help limit any bruising.

When using a cold compress, it is best to alternate between 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off. Instead of buying a cold pack from the drug store, you can easily make one at home using some readily available items. Also, it takes only a few minutes to make and can be stored in the freezer.

# Ice Pack

- Put some ice cubes in a plastic bag.
- Run a washcloth under cold water.
- Wrap the washcloth around the plastic bag of ice.
- Apply the compress on the affected area.

# Towel Compress

- Dampen a small towel with cold water.
- Squeeze out the excess water and place it in a seal able plastic bag.
- Put the plastic bag in the freezer for 15 minutes.
- Your cold compress is ready for use.

# Frozen Food Compress

- Grab a bag of frozen peas or any other small vegetable.
- Run a washcloth under cold water. Wrap the washcloth around the frozen food bag.
- Apply the compress on the affected area.

# Salt Compress

- Add 2 tablespoons of salt to 2 cups of water.
- Pour the solution into a medium-sized ziplock bag.
- Seal and put the bag in the freezer for several hours or overnight.
- Wrap the cold pack in a thin cloth before use.

# Cold Spoon Compress

- Chill a few small metal spoons in the freezer for a few hours.
- Place a spoon on your puffy eyes.
- When the spoon becomes somewhat warm, replace it with another cold spoon.
- Do this for 10 minutes on each eye.