Can you use a steam eye mask when you have a fever?
Jan 18, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
If you experience mild fever, a steam eye mask may help relieve discomfort; however, if the fever is severe, using a steam eye mask may not be recommended. It is advisable to seek medical treatment promptly. When you have a fever, monitor your body temperature regularly, and try to eat simple, light, and easily digestible foods. Avoid oily, spicy, and hard-to-digest foods.
Fever refers to an elevated body temperature. If experiencing mild fever, a steam eye mask may help relieve discomfort; however, if the fever is severe, using a steam eye mask may not be advisable. Should any discomfort occur, prompt medical attention is recommended. The analysis is as follows:
During fever, various discomforts may occur, including eye fatigue and dryness. This is because fever can induce metabolic changes in the body, leading to tension in the muscles around the eyes and reduced tear secretion. If the fever is mild, a steam eye mask can be used—its warm steam helps relax the muscles around the eyes and improves ocular blood circulation.
However, when a patient is in a state of high fever—for example, with a body temperature exceeding 39°C—and is extremely weak, using a steam eye mask is not recommended. At this time, the body is concentrating its energy to combat the high temperature, prioritizing thermoregulation and maintaining vital organ functions. Using a steam eye mask may impose additional strain on the body. Moreover, in a severely weakened state, the patient may have diminished sensitivity to temperature, increasing the risk of burns to the delicate skin around the eyes.
When experiencing fever, it's important to monitor body temperature regularly. It's best to consume simple, light, and easily digestible foods. Avoid oily, spicy, or hard-to-digest foods. Rice porridge or millet porridge is recommended. Additionally, increase intake of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins.
