Boulote: How to use it to avoid burning?

Recently, a young Briton burned his leg after his hot water bottle exploded on his skin because she was out of date. To avoid any domestic accident of this kind, Dr. Caroline Pombourcq, doctor, explains to us how to use this product safely.

Essential

Do not use a hot water bottle more than 20 to 30 minutes.
In the event of using a bag in the shape of a pocket, the water to be paid should not be burning, but rather at 45 ° C.
This product should not be used on an injury, a wound, red skin, edema, in the event of decompensated disease or venous insufficiency.

During extreme colds, the use of a hot water bottle is more than tempting to warm up. Its use can also be therapeutic. Thus, it is possible to use it in the event of low back pain, joint pain, painful rules or stomach aches, according to Dr. Caroline Pombourcq, doctor. “There are several types: electric, water, dry, with for example cherry nuclei or linen seeds, in the form of frost or heating pockets in the microwave or filling in water”, She says before adding that these products have a validity period, contrary to what one might think. However, it depends on the model. “We have to look at the product label.”

How to use a hot water bottle in complete safety?

If these different devices help to warm up and relieve us, their improper use can also expose us to severe risk of burns. In order to avoid this, it is advisable to use a hot water bottle 20 to 30 minutes maximum. “We don’t use it all night!” alerts the doctor. It should also be placed directly on the skin. If the latter does not have a cover, you must put a fabric or a towel before putting it on the painful area or to warm up.

If you use a hot water bottle in the form of a pocket to fill, the health professional recommends that they do not put burning water in it, because splashes and a break in the pocket can occur and burn us. “Ideal is 45 ° C water.” Another advice: fill the pocket with three-quarters, because “If the hot water bottle is fully filled, there is too much vapor and the risk of tearing is higher”.

People using an electric hot water bottle must heat their bed or sheet before going to sleep and then turn it off. “If this is not the case and the product is connected for a long time to a catch, there may be a short circuit and this can cause fire.” In addition, serious burns can occur. “The heaters’ syndrome, also called a calor dermatitis, can also appear. It is characterized by a grid erythematous lesion (like net meshes) at the abdomen break area for example. This can happen when you rely on a radiator or any other heat source, such as a laptop. Although it is not serious for health, you have to be careful!”