Is it possible to overuse a heating pad




















This article has been cited by other articles in PMC. Abstract Erythema ab igne is an asymptomatic cutaneous condition caused by exposure to heat.

Introduction Erythema ab igne presents as reticular, erythematous to violaceous patches on sites of exposure to heat. Case Report A year-old male was admitted to the hospital for an exacerbation of previously diagnosed acute intermittent porphyria manifesting as severe abdominal, back, and lower extremity pain.

Open in a separate window. Figure 1. Figure 2. Discussion Erythema ab igne presents initially as transient, blanchable erythema followed by progression to a reticular pattern of hyperpigmentation with epidermal atrophy and telangiectasias after continued heat exposure [ 4 ].

Conflict of Interests The authors have no conflict of interests regarding this work. References 1. Morrison M. Reticulated erythematous patch on teenager's foot. Journal of Family Practice. Jones C. Development of neuroendocrine Merkel cell carcinoma mixed with squamous cell carcinoma in erythema ab igne.

Archives of Dermatology. Miller K. Erythema ab igne. Because it will most likely be in contact with your body, texture and breathability are important. Here are some questions you can use to narrow down your search:. A pain felt from a recent workout will be very different from pain felt from a previous injury. While the latter demands a visit to the hospital, the pain after a strenuous exercise or activity can be easily remedied by a heating pad. Steamed towels may take longer to penetrate the sore muscle but has a longer lasting effect on the body.

These treatments will take longer and will require you to be in a comfortable position before moist heat materials are applied. You can take an hour or two off and go to a nearby spa and have a professional do the work for you, or you can do it yourself at home.

Dry heat methods work faster than moist methods but will not last as long. Which body part is ailing you? What sort of pain is it? These questions can help you decide on the size and type of heating pad you should get. Small areas or extremities like your arms, legs, or knees would benefit from a small one. On the other hand, areas like your back, hips, or entire torso may need a larger one to provide immediate relief.

This can also help you decide whether it would be more convenient to get an electric heating pad or a disposable one. If you foresee a certain type of pain recurring, an electric one would be good in the long run.

In a pinch, you can estimate how it would feel based on the fabrics listed in its materials. Look out for breathability in addition to the surface texture. Breathability refers roughly to the ability for moisture or vapor to disperse through a fabric. Natural fabrics like cotton and linen breath better than synthetic ones like polyester and rayon. Heated cushions , which include more padding than your usual heating pad, may also be better if you plan to rest a limb on the heating pad.

Know what you have. Currently, there are two kinds of heating pads available in the market: electric and chemical. Alternatives to these two are called heat packs that are filled with high specific-heat capacity materials. These include water for hot compress and wheat, barley, and flax seeds for microwaveable pack. Be careful to not heat up the pad too much.

Though it does not happen often, there have been cases of people sustaining burns from heating up their electric pads too much or ignoring the instructions when using it.

Burns become more apparent after the pad is used so users might now be aware while using the product. Place it on the strained muscle. Once the pad is properly heated, place it directly on the source of pain and let it sit for minutes. Be sure to place the pad where the pain radiates. Sometimes, neck pain is only a symptom for back pains so be sure to use a pad large enough that encompasses your back and neck or consult a physician for help. Once 30 minutes are up, remove the pad from the affected area.

Wait for an hour to pass or until that part has returned to a normal temperature and place the pad on your skin once again. When placing the pad on a less sensitive part of your body, continue to follow the previous reminders even if the heat is not as felt on that body part.

If, however, that part of your body is more sensitive, you may wrap a towel around the pad before placing it on your body. Ointments or creams are recommended to be applied after applying the heating pad to avoid any unwanted chemical reactions, especially if you were to use a chemical heating pad. Always inspect a heating pad before use to make sure there are no signs of damage. This holds true for all types and sizes of heating pads.

Breaks in the surface or damage to the mechanisms could disrupt the regulation of heat, leading to injury. Though some electric pads have safety features like auto-shut offs or a light signal, make sure to read the manual carefully before trying it out.

Follow the recommended time to heat up the pad or microwave the pack, and be sure to keep a watchful eye any signs of damage, especially to the cords of electric heating pads. If the pad is the type that stays plugged in the socket during use, be sure not to fall asleep with the pad still on your body as this can cause a burn.

If the pad is disposable, dispose of it properly so that the chemicals left on the pad will not contaminate other surfaces. Throw the water out of a hot compress or wash a pack if it can be placed in a washer. Electric pads should be placed in a dry and cool place and should be kept from younger children.

However, in electric heating pads where the temperature can be set to milder levels, this risk can be mitigated. We understand that in moments of pain and discomfort, a feeling of genuine warmth—warmth that is physical and emotional—can be truly restorative. Our heating pads are available in large and standard sizes, and are covered in cozy fleece that gives the best heat radiation.

The heating pad has a minute timer that will switch off, keeping your skin safe from burns and unnecessary pain. You may also adjust the temperature settings through the controller and give the pad a spin in the washer to keep it clean.

Wellcare recognizes the importance of air flow and employs concepts for heat to disperse evenly, thoroughly, and quickly. In a 4D DWF setup, heat is generated by the heating mechanism builds up and gathers around several hundred uniquely designed circular holes. To use heat therapy at home does not require you to go out and buy an electric heating pad. You can make two different heating pads with common material around the house. Before we describe the two common methods of using a heating pad at home, here are the basic instructions to using home heat therapy.

Use a layer of towels between your skin and the heating pad. Remove for at least 1 hour then repeat. Dry electric heating pads are not recommended. If your pain lasts longer than days, consult our office. It is probably more than a simple ache or pain. Any catastrophic injury can be devastating, but a catastrophic burn injury may be even more so because the physical scars remain Learn about five risks associated with heating pads in order to protect yourself.

Five specific risks associates with heating pads include: The heating pad does not have an automatic shut-off, which results in burns to the user if they fall asleep.

The user sits or lays on the heating pad, which results in damage to the heating pad and unexpected heat exposure.

The user handles the heating pad without its protective cover.



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