Skin Abscess
An abscess occurs when an area of tissue becomes infected. The
bacteria kill the local cells & release toxins.
In response, body walls off the infection to
prevent it from spreading. An inflammatory
response occurs, drawing huge amounts of white
blood cells to the area & increasing regional
blood flow. Pus forms, which is an accumulation
of fluid, toxins, living & dead white blood
cells, dead tissue & bacteria. This area begins
to grow, creating tension under the skin and
further inflammation of the surrounding tissues.
An abscess
can occur on any part of the body, including the
skin, mouth & internally. This article looks at
skin abscesses (also known as
Cutaneous Abscess
or Subcutaneous Abscess).
Skin abscess symptoms:
Symptoms of
an abscess include;
-
Localised
area is raised, swollen, red, painful & may
feel warm to the touch.
-
Over time the lump increases in size becomes
filled with pus and a white head forms. At
this point, the abscess may rupture & drain.
-
Fever &
chills may be present.
Abscess treatment:
Abscesses usually resolve themselves once the
head forms and the abscess 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 abscess to a head.
Once the abscess drains, clean the area with antiseptic.
If the abscess doesn't improve in a few days, see
your doctor. They may need to lance and drain
the abscess. Do not attempt this at home as it
could lead to further infection.
Never squeeze an abscess.
Antibiotics usually aren't necessary.
If you suffer from recurrent abscesses, see your
doctor, they may need to check for underlying
medical issues or prescribe antibiotics.
Also see:
Athletes foot,
Cellulitis,
Cold Sores,
Corns,
Dyshidrotic
Eczema, Eczema,
Flea bites,
Folliculitis,
Impetigo,
Itching,
Itchy Scalp,
Jock
Itch,
Molluscum contagiosum,
Nappy rash,
Nummular Eczema,
Prickly Heat,
Psoriasis,
Ringworm,
Rosacea,
Roseola,
Scabies,
Tinea Capatis,
Tinea
Versicolour,
Vitiligo,
Warts
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.
