Boil or skin abscess

Overview

MRSA is a staph that resists some antibiotics.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Red, painful lump with pus
• Painful lump under the skin with pus

Look up a symptom: Fever · Painful lump under the skin with pus · Painful lumps in the armpits or groin that keep coming back · Red spot, bump, or patch on the skin · Red, warm, swollen skin

When to get medical care

Causes

Bacteria.

Does it spread or run in families?

• Yes, it can spread from person to person.
• How it spreads: touch.
• Don't share towels, hats, combs, or bedding while it's being treated.

Who is more likely to get it

• Diabetes

Possible complications

• Cellulitis

Diagnosis

A clinician checks the lump.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Culture:

Treatment

Help it drain.

Self-care

• Warm compresses 3 to 4 times a day
• Cover with a bandage
• Wash hands

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

• Handwashing

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a dermatologist (skin doctor).

Back to school, work, or sports

• Stay home until you've had no fever for 24 hours without fever medicine and you're feeling better.
• For the next 5 days, wash hands often and wear a mask around others.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Some skin medicines, like isotretinoin and retinoid creams, aren't safe in pregnancy.
• Some infections can pass to the baby during pregnancy or birth. Tell your provider if you've been exposed.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Heals.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Boil or skin abscess