A boil or furuncle is infection of a hair follicle usually caused by the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus. This is a common bacterium present in the skin and the nose.
The staphylococcus aureus bacteria are relatively harmless but capable of causing a variety of mild to severe infections if it enters the deeper tissues. Certain parts of the body that are prone to develop boils include the throat, face, groin, armpits and buttocks. Boils typically settle on their own but severe or recurrent cases necessitate medical care.
What are the indications?
- Small area of skin becomes tender and inflamed
- Formation of painful sore lump
A warm compress must be applied for 10 minutes at 3 times a day to promote drainage.
After a few days, a white or yellow head forms in which the boil eventually bursts. The pus drains out and the site heals. A scar later forms depending on the severity of the boil.
Self-care measures for a boil
- The individual should resist the urge to squeeze the boil.
- Cleanse the boil using an antiseptic soap.
- A warm compress must be applied for 10 minutes at 3 times a day to promote drainage.
- Wrap or cover the ruptured boil for protection.
- Wash hands thoroughly to reduce the risk for spreading the infection.
- Utilize fresh towels every time the infected areas are washed
A doctor must be consulted if the boil does not seem to improve after a few days.
Management
The medical care for a severe case might include antibiotics and lancing. If a boil forms around the eye and nose, it requires treatment by a doctor since the infection might spread via the bloodstream and reach the brain. The treatment includes the following:
- Assessment for any underlying conditions such as diabetes
- Long-term use of antibiotics
- Antiseptic soaps and shampoos
- Application of an antibiotic cream to the nasal membranes
- Regular washing of all towels and bedding