Eye Care: Cold or Hot compress for dry eye?

As we already know, hot/cold compress can help relieve dry eyes but the question is, What is the difference between the two?

Hot Compress
Tears are made up of 3 layers. The oily layer is produced by the Meibomian oil glands in the eyelids. This is the outer most layer that forms the outermost layer. It's main function is to prevent evaporation of the other 2 layers of tears.

The hot compress helps stimulate the oil glands and help prevent clotting of oil. This helps retard the evaporation of tears and also improve blood circulation which in turn helps to relax the eyes.

It would be difficult to fall asleep when your eyes are strained. At this time, compress a warm tower on your eye lids to relieve your eye strains. It would help you to rest better.

Cold Compress

There are many factors that can contribute to the development of dry eyes. For example, when you are preoccupied with your work, as when you stared at a computer, you would blink less often.


Something as simple as that can cause a serious dry eyes condition. The symptomsdeveloped include redness or burning; decrease quantity of tears; and difficultyreading because of discomfort.

In such situation, try the cold compress method to relieve the “heat” around your eyes. Cold compress helps to regulate the blood circulation around your eyes and relieve the strains in your eyes.

When you are applying the compress method, relax your body. Rest comfortably, try doing the cold compress method first, then follow by the hot compress method. You will feel great!

*For both compress methods, you would need a clean tower, place it in cold water or warm water of about 50 degree Celsius. 

~Taken from "Hot And Cold Compress Of Eyes @ http://www.eye-exercises-for-good-vision.com/hot-and-cold-compress-of-eyes.html"