Boils

Boils are painful, pus-filled inflammations of the skin. They can range in size from a pea to a walnut. Although boils may be found anywhere on the body, they most commonly occur in areas where there is hair and friction, such as the neck, armpits, genitals, breasts, face, and buttocks.

Carbuncles are extremely large boils or a series of boils, usually deeper and more painful than regular boils. Always check with a doctor if you suspect a carbuncle, because the infection can get into your bloodstream and you may need antibiotics.

Causes

A boil develops when bacteria invade a hair follicle. Skin tissue swells, and a tender, red, pus-filled lump emerges. The pus contains white blood cells fighting the infection. Until the boil opens and the pus is released, the boil will be painful and tender to the touch.

Self-Care Steps for Boils

• Wash hands with antibacterial soap before and after touching a boil with crust or pus around it.

• Wash area gently with antibacterial soap three to four times a day.

• Apply warm compresses three to four times a day for 15 minutes to relieve pain and bring the boil to a head.

• Cover the boil with thick, absorbent gauze and keep dry.

• Avoid scratching the boil because it can spread infection.

• Do not squeeze or lance the boil. If the boil opens, carefully squeeze out the pus.

• Take a pain reliever to reduce pain and inflammation.

• Avoid using over-the-counter antibiotic creams or ointments unless your doctor tells you to.

• Your doctor may lance the boil by making a small incision with a surgical blade so that the pus can drain. Never attempt to lance a boil yourself without approval from your doctor.