What Causes a Boil?
A majority of cases of boils arise from bacterial infections that enter through small cuts or abrasions in the skin or injured hair follicles. The immune system reacts when bacteria penetrate into deeper layers of the skin, triggering white blood cells to be released to battle the infection.
Inflammation occurs, and pus begins accumulating. They tend to occur in any part of the body, although they are likely to occur in regions that experience friction, sweating, and body hair. These areas include the neck, face, armpits, thighs, and buttocks.
Anyone can be affected, although some circumstances make one more vulnerable. These circumstances include poor hygiene, a weakened immune system, skin disorders, and contact with someone infected with the skin condition.
Common Symptoms of a Boil
A boil usually begins as a small, firm lump beneath the skin. As the infection progresses, the area may become larger, more painful, and filled with pus.
Some symptoms that can be exhibited by people suffering from boils include redness, swelling, tenderness, warmth around the affected area, pus formation, and drainage of pus. People can also suffer from fever and swollen lymph nodes when an infection becomes serious.
How Are Boils Treated?
Smaller boils respond well to conservative management. Warm compresses applied a few times a day will promote circulation and facilitate drainage. It is also essential to ensure cleanliness in the affected area.
Never squeeze or try to drain a boil yourself, as this can spread the infection. Larger and more persistent boils will need professional intervention.
Surgical draining of a boil in a doctor’s office will remove the pus accumulation and decompress the tissue. There are cases when a physician prescribes an antibiotic in order to stop or prevent the spread of infection.
When Should You See a Healthcare Provider?
Medical evaluation is recommended if a boil becomes unusually large, causes severe pain, recurs frequently, or is accompanied by fever. This will help the doctor to find the best treatment option and to identify any conditions that may cause frequent infections.
At Bharmal Internal Medicine, we diagnose and treat a wide range of medical conditions, including skin infections such as boils. If you would like to make an appointment for treatment of boils, feel free to call us at (817) 784-0052.