How does bengay help

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What are your concerns? Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. But an even more effective trigger is icilin — a chemical originally designed for toothpaste and nasal sprays. Cooling remedies have been used for thousands of years. For instance, mint oil, which contains the cooling agent menthol, was a traditional Chinese salve.

Products like BenGay are modern-day versions that act to cool irritation and inflammation. But such topical creams are more effective for acute pain — that is, pain resulting directly from tissue damage, such as a burn or pulled muscle.

Research into this type of chronic, nerve-related pain has focused on cutting off activation of pain neurons before signals reach the brain. Much of the mystery of how this pain originates lies in the intricate mesh of sensory neurons underneath the skin. Different types of neurons detect different levels of temperature, pressure, and pain, sending this information to the spinal cord, and up into the brain.

Within a particular set of temperature-sensitive neurons sits a protein receptor called TRPM8, which is wired to respond to cool yet not icy-cold temperatures. For example, a light breeze might activate this protein, sending an action potential along the sensory nerve into the spinal cord, which would then be relayed to the brain, producing a pleasant cooling sensation.

Knowing this, the Edinburgh team looked for compounds that would specifically activate TRPM8, yet avoid setting off other more extreme sensory receptors. On the other hand, a cream or gel might be best for a sore elbow or knee so that the joint can still move and bend. Never mix these products with heat, such as from a heating pad. Doing so could cause the product to be absorbed into the blood stream at a faster rate.

A: Most topical pain relievers should not be used over seven days. Using it for longer than directed could result in a rash or sometimes even a chemical burn.

Stop use if your condition worsens or the area becomes irritated. He or she can help you solve the problem of your nagging pain and might even prescribe a prescription based topical pain reliever.

Topical pain relief comes in a variety of in gels, creams, sprays and patches. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin. Do not use on open wounds, broken skin, or irritated skin. Rinse with water if this medicine gets in your eyes or mouth. Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.

For your first use, apply only to a small skin area to test how your skin reacts to the medicine. Menthol can cause a cold or burning sensation, which is usually mild and should lessen over time with continued use.