Recently, more and more people are trying to resort to the use of natural, herbal medicines and folk recipes to treat various diseases. It is assumed that such therapy will be safe and will not leave negative consequences.
But grandmother’s methods of treatment are not suitable for everyone. The use of mustard powder to treat cough remains a controversial issue. Some experts say that this method is an excellent addition to standard treatment. Others are sure that mustard plasters for coughs can do more harm than good.
During a cough, the use of mustard plasters has gained particular popularity. Now this remedy is not in short supply. Mustard plasters are available at any pharmacy without a prescription. But you need to know whether it is possible to apply mustard plasters for a cough in one case or another and how to apply them.
Coughing is a defensive reaction resulting from irritation of the respiratory tract. It can be physiological (not dangerous) or pathological (caused by some disease).
In the first case, the use of mustard plasters will not only be useless, but even an unreasonable, stupid act. In case of pathological cough, the use of such a folk method is acceptable, but it also has its own characteristics, warnings and limitations.
Indications for use
Depending on these, a specific location for placing the warming sheet is selected. Mustard plasters are recommended for the following pathologies:
- colds, ARVI, catarrhal phenomena (calves, neck, feet);
- tracheitis in the acute stage (sternum, upper part);
- pulmonary diseases (lateral areas of the ribs, sternum);
- angina attack (heart);
- increased blood pressure, crisis (soles, calves, back of the neck);
- myositis, neurological diseases (affected area).
Mustard powder sachets can be used for coughs caused by the following diseases:
- Bronchitis,
- pneumonia,
- tracheitis,
- pharyngitis,
- rhinitis,
- adenoiditis,
- angina.
Be sure to consult your doctor before using this product. Remember that the use of mustard plasters does not exempt you from following prescribed recommendations and taking medications.
The principle of action of mustard plasters
After water hits dry mustard, the release of essential oils begins. At this moment, the mustard plaster is already in contact with the patient’s skin.
The bag has an irritating and warming effect on the dermis. The vessels passing under the skin begin to expand, blood circulation improves, and the organ that is affected by heat is nourished.
Mustard plasters stimulate the functioning of the nervous and autonomic systems. The body's defenses are reflexively increased. When heated, this product causes an outflow of blood from distant zones, which is actively used by people with nasal congestion or swelling. Packets of mustard powder provide an irritating and distracting effect, which helps to soothe a dry cough.
How to properly apply mustard plasters for coughs
Prepare the required number of bags in advance. Depending on their size, it can vary from 2 to 8 pieces.
Pour clean, heated water into a shallow cup. The temperature of the liquid should not be higher than 45 degrees, otherwise the patient risks getting burned. Plan the time of the manipulation so that after it you do not need to go anywhere.
In addition to water to wet the mustard plasters and the bags themselves, you will need a small terry towel and a blanket. After the procedure, Vaseline or baby cream will be useful (some patients use oil or alcohol).
Features of the treatment of wet cough
Where to put mustard plasters for coughing depends on the nature of the most disturbing symptom. A wet cough is usually caused by inflammation of the lower respiratory system. It occurs with bronchitis, pneumonia, tracheitis. The principle of treating this symptom is to thin the mucus and facilitate its release.
In this case, mustard plasters should be placed on the back, in the area of the lungs and bronchi.
Soak the bags in water and quickly apply them to the indicated areas. Cover the patient with a towel and blanket. You should be in this state for no more than 15 minutes.
If the burning sensation is strong, then you need to remove the warm compress after 10 minutes.
After this time, carefully remove the bags and wipe the skin with a clean, damp towel.
This is necessary to remove any remaining mustard powder. Next, rub your back with cream or Vaseline, dress in cotton underwear and immediately go to bed. After using mustard plasters for a wet cough, it is recommended to drink a glass of warm water.
The liquid will enhance the thinning effect of the folk remedy.
Features of the treatment of dry cough
Mustard plasters for dry coughs should be placed on the back or sternum area. To increase the effectiveness of the procedure, you can do this at the same time.
As before, soak the bags in water and place them on the patient's body. Place two bags in front between your chest and neck. From behind, paper envelopes are applied to the interscapular area. Cover the patient with a towel and blanket.
The duration of the manipulation should not be more than a quarter of an hour. For a dry cough, warming up for 7-9 minutes is sufficient.
Upon completion of the procedure, be sure to remove any remaining mustard powder from the body, then rub the patient and send him to bed.
It is advisable to do this manipulation before going to bed at night. But if this is not possible, then lie under the covers for at least 40-50 minutes. Otherwise, heating with mustard powder will have little effect.
There is evidence that the area of the palm near the thumb is responsible for the functioning of the respiratory system. Mustard plaster can also be applied there to treat dry cough. The duration of the procedure is the same as for warming up the back.
Is it possible to put mustard plasters on a child?
It is believed that in the first year or two it is better not to put mustard plasters on a child. Some pediatricians completely recommend abandoning this manipulation until the age of 7.
Whether or not to put mustard plasters on children is a personal matter for each parent. Experts can only warn and caution, but are not able to prohibit.
Why should you avoid this procedure with children?
- The skin of young children is very delicate and sensitive. Mustard plasters can easily cause burns.
- If the child has heart disease, which the parent may not know about, it will worsen.
- Young children may be allergic to mustard powder essential oil. The severity of such a reaction is unpredictable.
- Thermoregulation of babies of the first year is still unstable. Placing mustard plasters can cause the temperature to rise to high values.
- A child may have contraindications to the procedure that parents are unaware of.
Features of treatment for children
Many children believe that this procedure will be painful. Convince the little patient of the opposite. Tell them that if any unpleasant sensations appear, you will immediately remove everything.
You can distract your baby with cartoons or hold him in your arms to give him confidence. For older children, you can offer reading or engage them in something they love.
A child needs to apply mustard plasters in the same way as an adult. Avoid the heart area and do not place the bags on the spine.
Wet the paper squares with warm water and apply to the selected area (chest or back). Cover the baby with a towel and blanket. The duration of the procedure depends on the age of the baby:
- children under three years old need to hold the mustard plasters for 2 minutes;
- for children under 7 years old – no more than 4 minutes;
- for schoolchildren – 7 minutes.
Such a framework should be adhered to if the manipulation does not cause any discomfort in the child.
When your baby begins to complain of severe burning or pain, you should immediately remove the warming pack and wipe the skin with a clean, damp cloth.
Periodically look at the area where the mustard plasters are located. If there is severe redness, stop the procedure immediately.
Cough wraps for children
For young children, pediatricians recommend mustard wraps rather than mustard plasters. This procedure is considered less dangerous, but just as effective. Suitable over 2 years old. To carry it out you will need several mustard plasters, water and cotton or linen fabric.
Dampen the cloth and transfer the contents of the mustard plasters onto it. Wrap the child's chest with this design and leave it there for 5 minutes. The rule of the first complaint works here exactly as it does when installing mustard plasters.
If a small patient reports pain and severe burning, the heating should be stopped. After the wrap is removed, the child should be washed with warm water.
You will not be able to remove the remaining powder with a towel. Do not use hot water for washing, as it can burn already irritated skin.
After this, wipe the baby dry, put him in pajamas and send him to bed.
Mustard plasters at home - why and how to install them?
Contraindications for use and precautions
There are a number of medical contraindications for the warming procedure. You should familiarize yourself with them if you plan to treat your cough with mustard plasters.
- Increased body temperature.
Warming up can provoke an additional increase in the thermometer level. This happens especially often in children. If a child's cough is accompanied by a febrile fever, then you should wait a few days before using mustard plasters.
- Individual intolerance.
Some people have a peculiarity - an allergy to mustard. If you or your child have this uniqueness, then you should not put mustard plasters on.
- Inflammatory skin diseases.
If there are boils, suppuration or skin damage at the site where the warming packs were applied, the procedure should not be carried out until they are completely healed.
- Pregnancy and lactation period.
Women in these two conditions are contraindicated for any thermal procedures, including mustard plasters. It is better to trust a specialist and treat the cough with some other method.
Contraindication to the use of warming bags. The fact is that the procedure can provoke another attack. If the cough is caused by asthma, then it cannot be treated with mustard plasters.
This includes malignant or benign. The location of the tumor is not particularly important. For any neoplasm, temperature fluctuations are extremely undesirable.
Mustard plasters increase blood circulation and dilate blood vessels. If there is bleeding in the respiratory organs, it will become stronger. The consequences can be not only unpleasant, but also life-threatening.
Necessary caution
- Use mustard plasters purchased from a pharmacy chain. They contain a certain amount of powder needed for one 15-minute procedure. If you prepare the bags yourself, you can overdo it with mustard, resulting in a burn.
- Do not use the same mustard plaster twice. The effectiveness of repeated manipulation is reduced significantly. Some patients try to increase the warm-up time, but this does not lead to anything good. Repeated mustard plaster is ineffective and dangerous.
- Do not leave mustard plasters overnight. An exception can be made only for dry bags placed in socks. But coughs are not usually treated this way. “Mustard boots” are used to combat the runny nose.
- Do not use heating agents for a long time. Maximum – 4 days in a row. If during this time the cough does not go away or you do not feel any improvement, then you need to see a doctor.
- Avoid the heart area. An attack of angina is eliminated by placing the bag on the heart muscle. But if you are treating a cough, then you cannot do this.
- After manipulation, lubricate the skin with an emollient. Following this rule will help you avoid flaking, roughness and itching caused by exposure to mustard powder.
Advisory opinion
Many consumers praise mustard plasters, calling them an effective cough treatment. However, doctors are not inclined to say so. Doctors strongly recommend not to self-medicate, but to strictly follow their instructions.
It is not always possible to cure a cough with warming. For example, if you have pneumonia, you cannot do without antibiotics. Mustard plasters will do little to help with pneumonia.
If you put mustard plasters on without a doctor’s prescription, but do not notice any improvement within 3-4 days, or hyperthermia appears after the first procedure, then do not continue dangerous and useless manipulations. Visit a medical facility as soon as possible. Perhaps the cough is caused by a condition in which the use of warming agents is contraindicated.
Source: https://pneumoniae.net/gorchichniki-pri-kashle/
How to apply mustard plasters for coughs
The good old way to treat thick sputum and tracheitis is mustard plasters for coughs. For which diseases does mustard plaster help and for which is it contraindicated? How to place it correctly for a child and an adult?
Mustard has a warming effect
Why are mustard plasters installed?
Mustard plaster is a warming, anti-inflammatory and analgesic compress.
It is recommended to put it when:
- myalgia and neuralgia;
- osteochondrosis;
- bruise or sprain;
- headaches;
- insomnia;
- high blood pressure;
- pleurisy;
- angina pectoris (with caution);
- dry, wet cough.
For which cough mustard plasters are used?
Cough is one of the most common indications for mustard plasters. With a dry cough, essential oils and blood flow help alleviate symptoms, relieve swelling and irritation of the mucous membrane. When wet, heat and increased blood circulation thin the thick mucus in the bronchi.
Mustard plasters are prescribed for the diagnosis:
- pneumonia;
- bronchitis;
- laryngotracheitis;
- prolonged severe cough.
For severe persistent cough, it is recommended to use mustard plasters
The effect of mustard plasters on the body
When heated, a paper bag with mustard irritates skin receptors. In the place of their localization, under the influence of heat, blood flows, improves blood flow and beneficial substances penetrate better into the body. This process allows you to get rid of the virus, remove phlegm and improve your health.
How often can mustard plasters be installed?
For adults, it is advisable not to use mustard plasters more than once a day. For children, mustard compresses are not recommended every day - once every 48 hours. The average course for adults and children is 4-5 days.
The doctor can adjust the duration due to individual characteristics or the advanced state of the disease. It is recommended to extend the course without harm to health by alternating different warming compresses: hot salt, sand or ointments. Then mustard plasters are used for 10 or more days.
It is recommended to alternate places where mustard is applied. For example, take turns warming your chest and back.
What are the dangers of frequent use?
The skin suffers first: burns and allergies occur. Redness, itching and flaking of the skin are temporary side effects. Panthenol, BoroPlus, and moisturizing creams help. But for some time the skin remains painful and unsuitable for warming with compresses.
When significant improvement has occurred in several sessions, you should not stick to the course until the very end.
Mustard plasters can leave redness on the skin
At what temperature can mustard plasters be placed?
For colds, acute respiratory infections, ARVI and other respiratory diseases with cough, the temperature remains high for the first days. This period is not suitable for warming up. A mustard plaster is placed when the thermometer has remained below 37 for the last 24 hours.
Mustard plasters for coughs for children
At what age do full treatment for cough begin? Children are given mustard plasters from the age of 6. Use at a young age is dangerous: the essential oils in mustard are strong allergens. In addition, children's delicate skin is easy to burn.
Children under 6 years of age should not be treated with mustard plasters
For children 2-5 years old, in case of urgent need, the compress is applied to a double layer of gauze for 1-2 minutes.
For patients under one or two years old, the use of mustard is contraindicated!
How to prepare and carry out the procedure
Children are afraid of mustard plasters, like injections, so the first stage of preparation is psychological. Explain to your child that the purpose of the procedure is to warm the back in order to recover faster. Tell us what you will do and why the procedure is useful.
Reassure him with the promise that you will stop if he becomes uncomfortable. A restless child will not get the desired effect because he will fidget and be capricious. Moreover, excitement can raise the temperature again.
Prepare what you need:
- mustard plasters sheets or mustard plasters packages;
- warm water (no more than 40 degrees);
- gauze or paper napkin, perforated paper;
- cotton towel or napkin;
- terry towel or blanket for covering;
- baby cream;
- water thermometer;
- watch.
Mustard leaves, hot water, a towel are the main components of the compress.
Step-by-step instruction:
- Place your baby in bed on his stomach in a comfortable position. Bare your back and chest (if indicated, apply heat on both sides).
- Lubricate the application area with a thin layer of baby cream. If the child is under 6 years old, then lay down paper, a napkin or gauze.
- Wet mustard plasters completely with warm water, blot off excess with a napkin and apply to the skin.
- Pull your clothes down the back and cover them with a blanket. Small children can be wrapped tightly and picked up.
- For the first session, 3 minutes of warming up is enough. Next times increase the time to 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the compress and wipe the skin dry with a cloth until completely dry. If your skin burns too much, wipe with a warm, damp towel. A thin layer of Panthenol ointment will not be superfluous.
- Put your baby in bed with a warm blanket for another hour for best results. It is best to warm up before bed.
Applying mustard plaster to a child
Do not force your child to endure the burning sensation. An extra 2 minutes of warming up will not do any good, but the skin will burn. The intensity of heating for compresses varies. For example, fresh powder heats much stronger and faster, so listen to the child’s request to stop the procedure.
For children, it is recommended to choose children's mustard plasters or bags. They are not so dangerous for children's covers. The protective paper layer makes the compress less aggressive. Direct contact of the powder with the skin, like mustard leaf, provokes irritation and warming up faster.
Mustard plasters for coughs in adults
For adults, instructions for use are similar to those for children. The difference is in the duration of the procedure and the degree of skin protection. For the first session, an adult only needs to wait 5-7 minutes. The average duration for the following warmings is 10-15 minutes. Adults can hold mustard as long as the sensations allow.
A protective layer of gauze or cream is not needed - they will make the compress ineffective.
Use of mustard plasters for adults
After warming up, an adult can lubricate the skin with Vaseline oil. It will moisturize and retain heat for a long period. It is better not to use it for children so as not to burn thin skin.
Afterwards it is recommended to drink hot drinks: herbal teas with lemon.
How to apply mustard plasters for wet cough and bronchitis
In order for the mustard plaster to work with a wet cough, it is placed on the back: just below the shoulder blades and away from the spine. Also in the chest area, but not on the heart. Apply the compress just below the collarbones in the middle of the chest. The photo shows areas where it is correct to apply heat when coughing.
Place mustard plasters on the chest, but not on the heart
Is it possible to apply mustard plasters for dry cough and tracheitis?
For tracheitis, the chest compress and the mustard “boot” method are most effective.” Compresses are applied to the calves and feet and insulated with socks made of natural thread and wool. If the patient has a runny nose, then such pads eliminate this problem too.
The time of the session is unchanged - from 3 to 5 minutes for children and from 5 to 15 for adults. Still, focus on the sensations while wearing mustard “boots.” The skin on the feet and around the toes is quite vulnerable. And in the company of natural wool, you will get burned faster than you would like.
To treat dry cough, you need to apply mustard plasters to your feet.
Be careful with compresses on your legs: they can lower blood pressure by ten units in 5 minutes! Mustard “boots” are not recommended for patients with unstable blood pressure.
Contraindications
Contraindications for mustard plasters in the treatment of cough include:
- tuberculosis;
- oncological formations;
- bleeding;
- an abundance of moles;
- body temperature above 37 degrees;
- blood diseases;
- neurological diseases (such as epilepsy).
Particular attention is paid to the condition of the skin area where mustard plaster is applied.
Examine it for:
- rashes;
- wounds, scratches, ulcers, erosions, bedsores;
- dermatitis;
- skin diseases (psoriasis, eczema, for example).
Mustard plasters should not be used for rashes
Any signs of unhealthy skin are a contraindication to mustard warming. As well as allergies, individual intolerance and skin hypersensitivity.
You should stop a session (especially the first one) when:
- The patient complains of severe burning, itching or pain in the area of application.
- The patient feels a deterioration in health.
Mustard plasters are first aid for any type of cough. A cheap and accessible method to thin mucus in wet coughs and alleviate symptoms in dry coughs. Mustard compresses are given to adults and children from school age. The duration and frequency of heating largely depends on the severity of the disease and the patient’s sensitivity to the ingredient in the pads.
For children, there are children's mustard plasters on sale that are much softer and safer. Mustard overlays should be used with caution: the aggressive powder can burn the skin in one session.
Find out more on the topic: Lungs
Source: https://lechusdoma.ru/gorchichniki-pri-kashle/
Is it possible, according to doctors, to apply mustard plasters for a dry cough?
Mustard plasters are considered Grandma's cough remedy. Such a remedy has proven its effectiveness since the times of the Soviet Union. But is it possible to apply mustard plasters for a dry cough? How to do it right? Are there any contraindications for using this product?
Features of the action of mustard plasters for coughs
Mustard plasters are an effective treatment when there is a need to provide a local irritant effect on human skin. The irritating effect is achieved thanks to mustard - its seeds and essential oils. Hence the name of this product – “mustard plaster”. They can be purchased in pharmacies ready-made or made independently at home.
Classic mustard plaster is either a sheet of thick paper or thick fabric, onto which a layer of mustard seed powder, previously defatted, is applied. Modern mustard plasters have changed somewhat. Most often these are two-layer paper bags, inside of which the same mustard seed powder is poured.
In medicine, mustard plasters are usually used as a compress with a warming effect. The mechanism of action of this drug is as follows:
- essential oils of mustard seeds begin to dissolve when interacting with warm water;
- these oils cause chemical irritation to the skin;
- the lumens of blood vessels, lymph vessels, subcutaneous tissues, and local organs expand;
- blood circulation increases;
- metabolism accelerates;
- the temperature rises at the site where the mustard plaster is applied;
- a person first feels warmth, and later a tingling sensation from the effect of mustard on the skin.
Treatment of pneumonia in adults
Thanks to the described mechanism of action, some inflammatory processes stop, and pain subsides due to the local irritant effect.
Therefore, experts recommend using mustard packets to treat various types of cough, including dry cough, which is not accompanied by sputum production.
Mustard plasters for dry cough
Mustard plasters are usually started if the dry cough has not yet become protracted. But their placement depends on the underlying disease, which was diagnosed by a qualified specialist. Let's look at the most common diseases:
- for tracheitis, mustard packets should be placed in the chest area;
- for bronchitis - on the back between the shoulder blades;
- for ARVI - on the feet or calves.
What to do if the causes of a dry cough are diseases that increase the overall body temperature from 37.5 to 39 degrees? In such cases, mustard plasters should not be placed on the patient. This is due to the fact that they will further increase the patient’s temperature and worsen his well-being.
Rules for using mustard plasters for dry cough
Like any medicine, mustard packets have a number of rules that should be followed when using them:
- Do not use without the recommendation of your attending physician.
- Do not use at elevated body temperature.
- Do not bet more than 4 days in a row.
- Placed on certain areas of the body.
- Do not exceed the time of use indicated in the instructions - from 5 to 15 minutes.
- After removing the mustard packets, be sure to lubricate the skin with an emollient (for example, Vaseline oil or baby cream).
- Do not leave parts of the body exposed after using this product; it is best to wrap them in a blanket.
How to make banana with honey for cough
The procedure for applying mustard plasters to the patient’s body must also be performed correctly:
- Fill a deep container (preferably made of glass) with warm water - about 45 degrees;
- a certain number of mustard packets are placed in warm water (depending on the place of application, for the back - 3-4, for the feet - one at a time);
- they remain in the water for a short time (about ten minutes), sufficient for the essential oils of mustard to begin to dissolve, and the powder itself does not come off the dense base;
- prepared mustard packets are placed on the body of a sick person;
- a towel is placed on top of them and the patient is wrapped;
- maintain a set period of time - from 5 to 15 minutes;
- carefully remove the towel and mustard compress;
- The skin is blotted and lubricated with an emollient.
This procedure is best done at night, before bedtime, so that the patient covers himself with a blanket and sleeps after it. During sleep, he will begin to sweat excessively as a result of the warming mustard compress, and a dry cough will turn from unproductive to productive.
Features of the use of mustard plasters for dry coughs in children
A child, unlike an adult, has soft and more sensitive skin.
If mustard plasters are used incorrectly, you can achieve not a therapeutic effect, but severe irritation, even burning the skin. Therefore, pediatricians advise parents to pay attention to the following nuances when applying a mustard compress:
- An additional thin cloth should be placed under the mustard bags on top of the body.
- Depending on the age of the child, observe the interval for keeping such a compress on the body:
- from 1 to 3 years – 2-3 minutes;
- from 4 to 7 years – 3-5 minutes;
- from 8 to 12 years – 7-10 minutes.
At the first complaint of a child about an unpleasant burning sensation at the site of application of this medicine, the procedure should be stopped immediately. Otherwise, this procedure is no different from the standard one.
Contraindications for the use of mustard plasters
Installing mustard plasters is quite simple, but you need to know the contraindications when this product cannot be used:
- Increased body temperature (more than 37.5 degrees).
- Age up to one year.
- Violation of the integrity of the skin (for example, scratches, open wounds, dermatitis, furunculosis, etc.).
- Lack of skin sensitivity.
- Individual intolerance to mustard seed essential oil.
How is pneumonia treated in children?
Also, experts do not recommend using this remedy if the patient is diagnosed with a malignant tumor.
Source: http://KashlyaNet.ru/lechenie/preparaty/mozhno-li-po-mneniyu-vrachej-stavit-gorchichniki-pri-suhom-kashle.html
Mustard plasters for dry cough
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A common symptom of various respiratory infections, pharyngitis, laryngitis, bronchitis is a dry cough.
Distraction procedures that expand the peripheral capillary network and promote the outflow of blood from the inflamed area of the respiratory tract can alleviate the patient’s condition.
Mustard plasters for dry cough have this effect. Providing an irritating and warming effect, this folk procedure helps reduce treatment time.
Mustard plasters as a remedy for dry cough
Mustard plasters do not have a direct antitussive effect. Their use is justified by the local vasodilating effect and irritation of skin receptors.
A mustard patch placed on the back or sternum area helps improve blood circulation in the underlying tissues, reduces swelling of the mucous membranes of the respiratory system, and thins sputum.
There is no scientific evidence of the benefits of this procedure, but long-term folk practice suggests otherwise.
A mustard compress on the chest helps relieve a dry cough. The essential oils contained in mustard cause burning and tingling of the skin, as a result of which a cough attack is reflexively softened.
Mustard plasters applied to the heels quickly warm the feet and improve sleep. This procedure cannot cure ARVI or bronchitis, but it can improve the general condition.
It makes no difference whether mustard plasters are placed on the sternum or between the shoulder blades when coughing, the mechanism of action of the remedy is the same.
If industrial mustard leaves cause severe irritation, a homemade mixture will do.
The recipe is simple, it includes a tablespoon of mustard powder and starch, the amount (1-2 tablespoons) of which depends on the desired hotness of the compress.
Mix, gradually add water at a temperature of about 50°C, leave for half an hour, lubricate a strip of cloth or paper with the resulting slurry, apply immediately.
How to apply mustard plasters for coughs
Dry cough needs to be treated comprehensively; distraction methods are an effective component of therapy that helps prevent the disease from becoming chronic.
The plates covered with the dry mustard mixture must first be immersed in warm water for a few minutes (the time is indicated in the instructions), then placed on the chest. Mustard compresses should not be applied to the heart area or in the projection of the spine.
The patient's body should be wrapped, after the procedure the skin should be wiped with a damp, warm cloth and lubricated with cream.
When can you install mustard plasters?
It is better for adults to carry out the procedure at night; for children who cough, mustard plasters are given before daytime or nighttime sleep. Do not overuse the method, otherwise a skin burn may develop and medical attention will be needed. Before applying mustard compresses, the child needs to be calmed down; for the first time, remove the plates after a couple of minutes, so that in the future the baby will not be afraid of this method of treatment.
Where to put
Mustard plasters are recommended to be placed on the following areas of the body:
- the anterior surface of the chest in the projection of the sternum;
- between the shoulder blades on each side of the spine;
- plantar surface of the feet.
Where to place mustard plasters for bronchitis can be seen in the photo on the Internet, where the localization of the plates is shown in detail. In general, the procedure does not cause any difficulties.
How long to keep mustard plasters
Temporary exposure to mustard compresses depends on age. Products containing mustard can help soothe a severe cough, but it is important not to overdo it, especially when treating a child.
Mustard distractions are contraindicated for infants and children under one year of age; for preschoolers, apply a compress for 4-5 minutes; to avoid burns, place a damp strip of bandage or gauze under the plate.
For a teenager, the procedure can be extended to 10 minutes, the maximum time for adults is 15 minutes.
Contraindications
A direct contraindication for mustard compresses is a significant deterioration in overall health.
Severe weakness, headache, and other symptoms of intoxication and inflammation are already a significant burden on the body; it is not worth aggravating the situation with anti-cough procedures.
Mustard compresses are extremely undesirable during pregnancy and lactation (breastfeeding). For pregnant and lactating women, it is better to replace mustard plasters with a dry, debilitating cough with other means of distracting action, approved by a doctor.
Mustard plasters should not be used in case of fever, allergic reactions, or hypersensitivity of the skin. Contraindications include many skin diseases of inflammatory (eczema, psoriasis, acne) and tumor origin. The procedure may be harmful in case of bronchial asthma. These drugs should be used with extreme caution to treat debilitated patients.
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Attention! The information presented in the article is for informational purposes only. The materials in the article do not encourage self-treatment. Only a qualified doctor can make a diagnosis and give treatment recommendations based on the individual characteristics of a particular patient.
Source: https://vrachmedik.ru/79-gorchichniki-pri-sukhom-kashle.html
How to properly apply mustard plasters for a dry cough in an adult: instructions
Many respiratory diseases are accompanied by a dry cough. Patients experience frequent bouts of prolonged coughing, in which no mucus is coughed up.
There are various ways to treat dry cough, and one of them is the use of a remedy such as mustard plasters.
Treatment of dry cough with mustard plasters
A dry cough appears with various colds. This cough occurs because mucus and phlegm accumulate in the respiratory tract.
Medicines in the form of tablets and syrups do not always give the desired effect, and in such cases mustard plaster can help. It is a bag made of thick paper, inside of which there is mustard powder.
In what cases can a dry cough be treated with mustard plasters?
Mustard plasters can be used to treat coughs for the following diseases:
- bronchitis;
- tracheitis;
- angina;
- sinusitis;
- pneumonia;
- colds accompanied by a dry cough.
It is important to remember that if the body temperature is above 37.5 degrees, it is not recommended to apply mustard plasters!
What effect do mustard plasters have on the body?
Mustard powder contains essential oils. When interacting with water, they begin to have a healing effect. It consists of heating and irritating effects, due to which the work of the body’s immune resources is enhanced.
The vessels located under the area of the body on which mustard plaster is applied dilate, as a result of which the blood flow to it increases.
It also promotes the release of phlegm and mucus from the respiratory tract.
After treatment with mustard plasters, a dry cough turns into a wet one. The expectoration of mucus begins and the airways are cleared.
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Where is the correct place to place mustard plasters?
Mustard plasters can be installed:
- on the back;
- on the chest;
- on your feet.
In this case, the following rules must be observed:
- Mustard plasters should not be applied near the heart; more often they are placed a little to the right of the sternum - in the area of the bronchi, under the collarbone;
- On the back, mustard plasters are applied near the shoulder blades, but they cannot be placed on the spine;
- On the legs, mustard plasters are placed on the calves and feet, and during the procedure it is necessary to wear warm knee socks.
If there are any damages on the skin at the places where mustard plasters are applied, for example, wounds or redness, the procedure cannot be performed!
There are also the following tips on where to apply mustard plasters:
- for bronchitis, you can put mustard plasters near the shoulder blades;
- with tracheitis, mustard plasters are located on the sternum;
- You can alternate: on the first day, place mustard plasters on the back, and on the second - in the sternum area.
How to treat an adult with mustard plasters?
To carry out the treatment procedure with mustard plasters you will need:
- soup plate;
- water;
- napkins or gauze;
- towel, warm blanket;
- Vaseline oil;
- the mustard plasters themselves.
Next you need to do the following:
- Distribute mustard powder evenly over the surface of the mustard plaster;
- Heat water to 40-45°C and pour it into a plate;
- Place mustard plasters in water for 10-15 seconds, squeeze a little;
- Wrap mustard plasters with a napkin or gauze rag to prevent burns;
- Apply them to the patient’s body;
- Additionally, wrap a towel around those areas of the body where mustard plasters are applied;
- Cover the patient with a blanket or blanket.
After removing the mustard plasters you need to:
- Wipe the areas of the body where mustard plasters were applied with a towel;
- lubricate the reddened skin with Vaseline oil;
- wear warm clothes.
The best effect from the use of mustard plasters is achieved if the procedure is carried out in the evening, before bedtime. In this case, after it the patient can immediately go to bed, wrapped in a warm blanket.
Taking tea with honey or raspberries after removing mustard plasters will have an additional effect.
How long can you keep mustard plasters?
There is no specific time required to achieve the effect of using mustard plasters. It is determined individually, based on the characteristics of the body.
Wart spell: how to read?
However, the following recommendations exist:
- the minimum time for using mustard plasters is 5-7 minutes;
- maximum time – 15-17 minutes.
If the burning sensation is very strong, the procedure should not be continued; An unbearable burning sensation may be a symptom of an allergic reaction! However, it is important to remember that irritation is the basis of the action of mustard plaster.
Features of treatment with mustard plasters for dry cough in children
The procedure is carried out according to the same algorithm as for adults, but the temperature of the water for wetting mustard plasters should not exceed 40°C.
The main differences in the procedure are the time of use of mustard plasters:
- children aged 3 years should hold the mustard plaster for no more than 2 minutes;
- for children from 3 to 8 years old, mustard plaster can be held for 3 minutes;
- For children aged 8-12 years, mustard plaster can be left on for 5 minutes.
Children under 3 years of age cannot treat cough with mustard plasters!
If a child complains of a very strong burning sensation during the procedure, and the place where mustard plasters were applied becomes very red, it is impossible to continue treatment with mustard plasters!
- It will be more convenient to put mustard plasters on children if you cut one mustard plaster into smaller pieces;
- The optimal time for the procedure is the evening, after which you should immediately put the child to bed, putting on warm pajamas and wrapping him in a blanket; this will keep you warm longer.
Use of mustard plasters during pregnancy
During pregnancy, mustard plasters should not be used to treat cough!
This is due to the following reasons:
- Mustard plasters increase blood flow to the site of their use; accordingly, there is an outflow of blood from the uterine area, which causes oxygen starvation of the fetus;
- During the procedure, blood pressure increases; as a result, the vessels in the uterus narrow, which is why the fetus also receives less nutrients;
- The use of mustard plasters has a warming effect on the body, and it is unacceptable during pregnancy, as it increases the activity of the uterus, which can cause a miscarriage.
Precautions when treating cough with mustard plasters
- If the effect of using mustard plasters does not occur after 3-4 days of treatment, you should stop the procedure and consult a doctor;
- The duration of the procedure is determined individually depending on the sensitivity of the skin;
- severe redness, burning or pain occurs while using
If a burn occurs as a result of using mustard plasters, you need to:
- Wet the burned area of the body with cold water;
- Blot it with a sterile cloth to remove moisture;
- Treat with an antiseptic (furacilin or syntomycin ointment);
- Apply a loose bandage (subsequently it must be changed at least 2 times a day).
If an allergic reaction occurs, you need to use antihistamines such as suprastin.
It is impossible to lubricate the burn site with vegetable oil or fat because as a result of their use a film appears on it, which prevents the temperature at the burn site from decreasing
How often can mustard plasters be used?
- to treat a cough with mustard plasters for a long time; maximum duration of treatment – 4 days;
- Mustard plasters should be applied no more than once a day.
Contraindications to the use of mustard plasters
You should not treat dry cough with mustard plasters if:
- temperature above 37.5°C;
- allergies to mustard oil;
- malignant tumors;
- pregnancy;
- bronchial asthma;
- oncological diseases;
- psoriasis;
- weeping eczema;
- dermatological problems of skin areas on which mustard plasters are placed.
Recommendations for treating dry cough with mustard plasters
- to treat dry cough with mustard plasters once a day, but this must be done daily for three to four days;
- The optimal time for the procedure is in the evening, before bedtime;
- If after four days of using mustard plasters a positive effect does not appear, you need to stop treatment and consult a doctor, as this may indicate that the body is insensitive to this type of treatment or that the disease has taken a more serious form and requires other methods of treatment;
- Frequent use of mustard plasters can cause an allergic reaction;
- If the body temperature is elevated, you must first bring down the temperature and then carry out treatment, since otherwise the load on the weakened body will be excessive.
Source: https://stopzaraza.com/lechenie/narodnaya/gorchichniki.html
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