How to Reduce Swelling After a Hand Injury?
In many accidental situations, we may suffer from hand injuries that cause swelling, which can have a significant impact on our daily lives. When this occurs, the primary task is to reduce the swelling and alleviate the pain. Many people are concerned about the specific methods for reducing swelling. So, how do we reduce swelling after a hand injury? Let's take a look.
Firstly, for hand injuries that cause swelling, ice packs or iced drinks can be used for short-term relief. After a longer period, hot compresses with a warm towel or hot water bottle can be applied to help reduce swelling and pain. It is important to rest and avoid excessive movement of the injured area to prevent further aggravation of the condition. Taking anti-inflammatory medication can also help alleviate the discomfort. For more severe cases, medical treatments such as Yunnan Baiyao spray may be recommended. If the injury does not improve over time, it is advisable to seek medical attention.
Secondly, let's discuss the proper method for applying ice packs:
- Choose suitable ice pack tools such as ice bags, ice towels, or wrapped ice cubes. Ensure that the ice bag is intact and free of leaks, and disinfect the ice towel before use. When using ice cubes, wrap them in a waterproof bag or towel to prevent melted water from infecting the injured area.
- Determine the area for cold compress and place the ice pack on the injured or painful area. For patients with high fever, the ice pack can be applied to the forehead, neck, armpits, and groin.
- The best time for ice therapy is within 24 hours after the injury, with a maximum duration of 48 hours. Applying ice within this timeframe can effectively reduce swelling, inhibit blood circulation, and lower local metabolism, thereby reducing pain and swelling.
- The duration of ice therapy should be 20-30 minutes each time. If longer periods of ice therapy are required, there should be at least a 30-60 minute interval between applications. Wrap the ice bag in a cloth and regularly observe the skin condition to prevent tissue necrosis.
By following these recommendations, you can effectively reduce swelling and relieve pain after a hand injury.
