An abscess happens when bacteria get trapped under the skin and start to grow. Pus forms inside the abscess as the body reacts to the bacteria. An abscess can start with an insect bite, ingrown hair, blocked oil gland, pimple, cyst, or puncture wound. It is sometimes call a boil.
In the early stages, your wound may be red and sore. For this stage, you may get antibiotics. If the abscess doesn't get better with antibiotics, it will need to be drained with a small cut.
Home care
These tips will help you care for your abscess at home:
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Soak the wound in hot (but not boiling) water or apply hot packs (small towel soaked in hot water) to the area for 20 minutes at a time. Do this 3 to 4 times a day, or as instructed. Use a new towel each time. Wash the towels afterward. They may be contaminated with bacteria after use.
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Don't cut, squeeze, or pop the boil yourself.
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Put antibiotic cream or ointment on the skin 3 to 4 times a day, unless something else was prescribed. Some ointments include an antibiotic plus a pain reliever.
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If your health care provider gave you antibiotics, don't stop taking them until you have finished the medicine, or are told to stop. This is to be sure the infection has completely cleared.
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You may use an over-the-counter pain medicine to control pain, unless another pain medicine was prescribed. Talk with your provider first if you have chronic liver or kidney disease or ever had a stomach ulcer or digestive bleeding.
Follow-up care
Follow up with your health care provider, or as advised. Check your wound each day for signs that the infection may be getting worse.
When to get medical advice
Contact your health care provider or seek medical care right away if:
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There's an increase in redness or swelling.
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Red streaks appear in the skin leading away from the abscess.
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You have more local pain or swelling.
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You have a fever of 100.4ºF (38ºC) or higher, or as directed by your provider.
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Pus or fluid is coming from the abscess.
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The boil comes back after getting better.
