A warm compress is a method of applying heat to a particular area of the body. It can be used to increase blood flow to sore areas of the body, which can reduce pain and speed up the healing process. Warm compresses can be either moist or dry, and they can be made using a variety of items, including a towel soaked in hot water, a heating pad, or a gel pack that can be heated in the microwave. Warm compresses are generally safe, but it’s best to avoid using them on fresh injuries, such as cuts or burns. Some of the conditions that can be treated with warm compresses include sore muscles, sinus congestion, eye issues such as styes, ear infections, menstrual cramps, boils, and cysts. Warm compresses are also commonly used for the treatment of certain ocular conditions such as dry eyes, pinkeye, stye or chalazion, swollen eyelids, meibomian gland dysfunction, muscle spasms, or pain. Warm compresses can be used for both muscle and joint injuries, but it is common to alternate both cold and warm compresses to manage inflammation.