Boils

Also known as a furuncle, a boil is a localised infection of the hair follicle, almost always caused by the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus (staph).

What causes boils?

Staphylococcus aureus lives on the skin & in the nose of many people without causing any harm. However, if the skin is broken the baceria can enter the skin, leading to a boil.

Boils can occur on any part of the body, the most commonly affected areas include the face, neck, armpits & buttocks. Sometimes a group of follicles can become infected and cluster together, forming a carbuncle. 

What are the symptoms of a boil?

• Boils start out as a small, red and tender lump.
• Over time the lump increases in size becomes filled with pus and a white head forms. The area may feel hot to touch.
• You may also experience a fever.

Boils treatment:

Boils usually resolve themselves once the head forms and the boil ruptures & drains. You can help this process along by applying a hot compress to the area for 15 minutes, 3-4 times a day. This helps bring the boil to a head. Once the boil drains, clean the area with antiseptic.

If the boil doesn't improve in a few days, see your doctor. They may need to lance and drain the boil. Do not attempt this at home as it could lead to further infection.

Never squeeze a boil.

Antibiotics usually aren't necessary.

If you suffer from recurrent boils, see your doctor, they may need to check for underlying medical issues or prescribe antibiotics.

Also see:

Folliculitis, Skin Abscess

Please note:

The medical articles on this site have not been written by a doctor & should not be considered a replacement for a doctor visit. The articles are provided for informative purposes only.

Always seek immediate medical advice for any problems.

While great care has been made in the creation of these articles, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or omissions on these pages. If in any doubt whatsoever, seek professional medical advice.