Boils

What are boils?

A boil (furuncle) is a pus-filled bump under the skin that can cause severe pain. Initially starting as a small red bump, boils become enlarged as they fill with pus. While they may appear anywhere on the skin, boils mainly arise on hair-bearing areas that frequently experience sweating and friction such as the face, back of neck, armpits, thighs, and buttocks. A connection of multiple boils to form one larger boil, called a carbuncle, gives way to a larger, deeper, and more severely infected area. Your dermatologist would most likely be able to diagnose a boil just by looking at it.

What causes boils?

Boils originate due to the rapid buildup of pus caused by a bacterial infection in hair follicles under the skin. As excessive amounts of pus fill the small bumps, the growth becomes larger and more painful, eventually leading to its own rupture and drainage.

What are possible treatments?

● Incision and Drainage: The dermatologist creates an opening from the surface of the skin into the belly of the boil called incision to drain out the pus. If the affected area is deep, gauze may be packed to soak up and remove any remaining liquids.

● Antibiotics: Antibiotics might be prescribed to treat severe and recurrent infections.

What are things I can do?

● Do NOT attempt to squeeze or drain as this cad spread the infection to surrounding areas

● Prevent contamination: Wash clothes and towels that have come in contact with the infected area and wash hands constantly to avoid spreading the infection.

● Warm compresses: Apply slight heat for 10-15 minutes at a time to the infected area to encourage a quicker rupture. Make sure you wash your hands after touching your boil.