Heat retention in varieties of warm compresses: a comparison between warm soaks, hard-boiled eggs and the re-heater

Abstract

Warm compresses are the most common form of treatment for chalazia and other inflammatory conditions of the eyelids. We compared the heat retention characteristics of warm washcloths, hard-boiled eggs, and a heat-generating product called the Re-Heater when used for delivering heat to the eyelids. Skin temperature was measured during 20-minute applications of each "device." The Re-Heater had the best total heat delivery, followed closely by the hard-boiled egg. Both of these methods are reusable, easy, and cause no discomfort. We recommend that physicians instruct their patients in the use of either of these techniques when heat application to the eyelids is desired.