Abscess Skin Boils

And, while it's good to have this contained in one area - to help prevent the spread of infection - it also prevents the white blood cells from doing their job and attack the bacteria which can lead to inflammation and pain.

Over time, abscess skin boils may become large, hard and even very painful. Sometimes they become so filled with pus, that they may burst without treatment or lancing.

Abscess Boil or Pimple?

Before trying any treatment, make sure what you have is a boil, and not a breakout or a pimple rash. This is especially important if you have boils on the face.

Boils can occur almost anywhere on the body from the genital/groin area to the hair follicles in the eye lashes. If you're not sure what you have check out pictures of boils for more information.

This is where a doctor makes a small incision to the head of the boil and allow the pus to drain. After this antibiotic creams or pills may be prescribed to prevent further spreading of infection.

If you're interested in what natural treatments or remedies are available to treat boils, check out home treatment for boils. There are a lot of natural treatments ranging from warm compresses to an herbal poultice made with ingredients you can find in your own kitchen...like garlic, onions, and turmeric.

Some are simple, some are messy, and some may be impossible or difficult to use depending on where it's located. So when in doubt, always check with a physician.

In case you're interested, there are some over-the-counter herbal/homeopathic treatment remedies too. Follow this link for more information on over-the-counter treatment for boils.

What Causes Boils and Abscess Skin Boils

Once a boil stars infection and pus (composed of white blood cells) builds up. This is actually the body’s way of trying to stop the infection. Often a whitehead develops when the pus comes up to the skin surface.

Immediate treatment for boils may be important to prevent further complications, especially if it's very large, painful, or near the eyes. Also, if the boils are on the fingers or hands, it’s important not to handle or prepare food as the bacteria could spread to other people or even other parts of the body. Remember, boils are very contagious!

Types of Abscess Skin Boils:

There are many types of boils and many different pictures of boils, however, the 4 most common types are:

Cystic acne. You'll usually find this type of boil on the face. It's caused by a clogged pore that sometimes gets infected. This type of boil is also most likely found in teenagers who are having problems with breakouts and acne.

Carbuncle or furuncle. This type of skin abscess is caused by a bacterium called Staphylococcus aurus. A common symptom is a high fever or chills.

Pilonidal cysts. You'll usually find this skin boil in warm creases or folds of the skin - like around the buttocks. The warmth and moisture combined with the constant pressure from sitting for long periods - cause irritation of the blocked hair follicles. That is why most people who experience this usually find it happens after a long trip.

Hidradenitis suppurativa. While not so common, this boil is probably the most uncomfortable to deal with. The person may experience several skin boils in small areas like the armpits or groin area. They can also be infected which is why antibiotics or surgical procedure is need to remove the sweat glands.

Treating Abscess Skin Boils and Prevention

If the cause of skin boils is due to a splinter or ingrown hair, the object or hair should be removed and the area and skin duct needs to be well cleaned and kept clean. This will keep the bacteria from growing and prevent the boil from spreading.

Since skin boils are contagious you not only need to treat the ones you have, but need to start a good prevention routine to prevent them from spreading to other areas of the body. If they become infected or you tend to get them frequently, you should consider seeing a doctor.

Some people have opted for a natural homeopathic spray that may help reduce the symptoms. This spray is taken internally so there are no messy creams to worry about or to stain your clothes and is quickly absorbed.

Always use common sense when dealing with abscess skin boils - if an infection sets in or you notice other serious side effects - like pain or fever - don’t wait to treat it, see your doctor right away.

Additional Reading

Treatment for Boils

Renew Intensive Skin Therapy Facial