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How to pop a boil under your arm. Armpit Boils: Causes, Symptoms, and Safe Treatment Options

What causes armpit boils. How to recognize the symptoms of an underarm boil. When to seek medical attention for a boil under your arm. Is it safe to pop an armpit boil at home. What are the most effective treatments for underarm boils.

Understanding Armpit Boils: A Common Skin Condition

Armpit boils, medically known as furuncles, are painful, pus-filled bumps that develop under the skin in the armpit area. These skin infections typically start in hair follicles or oil glands and can be quite uncomfortable. But what exactly causes these pesky skin problems?

The Primary Culprit: Staphylococcus aureus

The most common cause of armpit boils is a bacterial infection, usually involving Staphylococcus aureus. This bacterium naturally lives on our skin but can cause problems when it enters the body through small cuts or abrasions. In the warm, moist environment of the armpit, these bacteria can thrive and lead to infection.

Recognizing the Signs: Symptoms of Armpit Boils

Identifying an armpit boil early can help in managing the condition more effectively. Here are the key symptoms to watch out for:

  • A red or pinkish bump in the armpit area
  • Pain or tenderness around the affected area
  • Visible yellow or white pus at the center of the bump
  • Fever in some cases
  • General feeling of sickness
  • Itching on or around the boil

Can armpit boils be mistaken for other skin conditions? Yes, they can sometimes be confused with pimples. However, boils typically grow larger and deeper into the skin than pimples, which are infections of the sebaceous glands closer to the skin’s surface.

Risk Factors: Why Do Some People Get Armpit Boils?

Several factors can increase your likelihood of developing armpit boils:

  1. Excessive sweating without proper hygiene
  2. Frequent shaving of the armpit area
  3. Poor overall hygiene
  4. Weakened immune system
  5. Certain medical conditions like diabetes, cancer, or eczema

Does shaving increase the risk of armpit boils? Indeed, it can. Shaving can create small nicks in the skin, providing entry points for bacteria. Additionally, it can lead to ingrown hairs, which may become infected and develop into boils.

The Healing Process: How Long Do Armpit Boils Last?

Most armpit boils will heal on their own within two weeks. During this time, the boil may gradually grow as pus accumulates, eventually reaching a point where it ruptures and drains naturally. However, if a boil persists beyond two weeks or grows rapidly, it’s crucial to seek medical attention.

When to Consult a Doctor

While many armpit boils resolve without medical intervention, certain situations warrant professional care:

  • The boil lasts longer than two weeks
  • It grows rapidly or becomes extremely painful
  • You develop a fever or feel very ill
  • Multiple boils appear (a condition known as carbuncles)
  • The boil doesn’t drain on its own

Treatment Options: Managing Armpit Boils Safely

When it comes to treating armpit boils, there are several approaches, ranging from home remedies to medical interventions:

Home Care for Armpit Boils

For minor boils, these home care methods can be effective:

  • Apply warm, moist compresses to the area several times a day
  • Keep the area clean with antibacterial soap
  • Avoid tight clothing that may irritate the boil
  • Do not attempt to pop or squeeze the boil

Medical Treatments

If home remedies don’t suffice, a healthcare provider may recommend:

  • Incision and drainage of the boil
  • Prescription of oral antibiotics
  • Application of antibiotic ointments

Is it ever safe to pop an armpit boil at home? Generally, it’s not recommended to pop a boil yourself. This can lead to further infection and scarring. Always consult a healthcare professional for proper treatment.

Prevention Strategies: Keeping Armpit Boils at Bay

While it’s not always possible to prevent armpit boils, certain practices can reduce your risk:

  • Maintain good personal hygiene, especially in the armpit area
  • Use antibacterial soap when washing
  • Avoid sharing personal items like razors or towels
  • Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing
  • Consider using an antibacterial deodorant

How effective is proper hygiene in preventing armpit boils? While not foolproof, good hygiene practices can significantly reduce your risk of developing boils by minimizing bacterial growth in the armpit area.

Complications: When Armpit Boils Become Serious

In most cases, armpit boils are more of a nuisance than a serious health concern. However, in rare instances, complications can arise:

  • Cellulitis: A spreading skin infection
  • Sepsis: A life-threatening bloodstream infection
  • Scarring: Especially if the boil is large or improperly treated
  • Spread of infection to other areas of the body

Can armpit boils lead to more serious conditions? While uncommon, severe or recurrent boils can sometimes indicate an underlying health issue, such as a weakened immune system or a chronic skin condition. If you experience frequent boils, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation.

Myths and Facts: Debunking Common Misconceptions About Armpit Boils

There are several myths surrounding armpit boils that can lead to confusion and potentially harmful practices. Let’s separate fact from fiction:

Myth 1: Popping a boil at home speeds up healing

Fact: Attempting to pop a boil at home can actually introduce more bacteria, leading to a worse infection and potential scarring.

Myth 2: Armpit boils are always caused by poor hygiene

Fact: While poor hygiene can contribute to boil formation, many other factors, including genetics and certain medical conditions, can also play a role.

Myth 3: Antibiotics are always necessary to treat armpit boils

Fact: Many boils will heal on their own with proper home care. Antibiotics are typically only prescribed for severe or recurring cases.

Myth 4: Armpit boils are contagious

Fact: The boil itself isn’t contagious, but the bacteria causing it can spread, potentially leading to new boils in other areas or on other people if proper hygiene isn’t maintained.

Are there any natural remedies that can effectively treat armpit boils? While scientific evidence is limited, some people find relief using natural remedies such as tea tree oil (which has antimicrobial properties) or applying a paste made from turmeric (known for its anti-inflammatory effects). However, these should not replace proper medical care, especially for severe or persistent boils.

Living with Recurrent Armpit Boils: Management and Coping Strategies

For some individuals, armpit boils can be a recurring problem. This can be frustrating and impact quality of life. Here are some strategies for managing and coping with recurrent boils:

  • Work with a dermatologist to develop a long-term management plan
  • Consider using antibacterial washes or soaps regularly
  • Be vigilant about early signs of boil formation and start home care immediately
  • Manage underlying conditions that may contribute to boil formation, such as diabetes or hormonal imbalances
  • Consider lifestyle changes that may help, such as diet modifications or stress reduction techniques

How can recurring armpit boils affect mental health? Chronic skin conditions like recurrent boils can sometimes lead to anxiety, depression, or self-esteem issues. It’s important to address both the physical and emotional aspects of dealing with this condition. Don’t hesitate to seek support from mental health professionals if needed.

Research and Innovations: The Future of Armpit Boil Treatment

Medical research continues to explore new ways to prevent and treat armpit boils more effectively. Some areas of ongoing research include:

  • Development of new topical treatments that can prevent bacterial colonization
  • Exploration of the role of the skin microbiome in boil formation and prevention
  • Investigation into genetic factors that may predispose some individuals to recurrent boils
  • Research into novel antibiotics to combat antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria

What promising new treatments for armpit boils are on the horizon? While still in early stages, researchers are exploring the use of bacteriophages (viruses that infect bacteria) as a potential treatment for antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections, including those that cause boils. Additionally, advancements in understanding the skin microbiome may lead to probiotic treatments that can help prevent boil formation.

In conclusion, while armpit boils can be uncomfortable and sometimes concerning, understanding their causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help you manage this condition effectively. Remember, most boils will heal on their own with proper care, but don’t hesitate to seek medical attention if you’re concerned about your symptoms or if the boil persists. By maintaining good hygiene practices and being aware of risk factors, you can reduce your chances of developing these troublesome skin infections.

Causes and Symptoms of Armpit Boils

Armpit boils

A boil (also known as a furuncle) is caused by an infection of a hair follicle or oil gland. The infection, usually involving the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus, builds up in the follicle in the form of pus and dead skin. The area will become red and raised, and will slowly grow as additional pus builds up within the lesion.

While unsightly and uncomfortable, most boils are not life-threatening and may open and drain on their own within two weeks. If the boil under your arm grows rapidly or does not improve in two weeks, see your doctor. Your boil may need to be surgically lanced (opened by cutting a small incision).

A boil forms when a bacterial infection — most commonly a staph infection — occurs within a hair follicle. The infection affects the hair follicle and the tissue around it. The bacterial infection causes a hollow space around the follicle that fills with pus. If the area of infection increases around the hair follicle, the boil will grow larger.

Symptoms of a boil include:

  • red, pinkish bump
  • pain on or around the bump
  • yellow pus showing through the skin
  • fever
  • sick feeling
  • itching on or around boil

Several interconnected boils are called a carbuncle. A carbuncle is a large area of infection under the skin. The infections result in a group of boils appearing as a larger bump on the surface of the skin.

Boils under the arm occur when a hair follicle becomes infected. This may occur due to:

  • Excessive sweating. If you sweat more than normal due to the weather or physical activity, but you don’t clean yourself properly, you may be more susceptible to infections such as boils.
  • Shaving. Your underarm is a place where sweat and dead skin can build up. If you shave your armpits often, you could have higher likelihood of contracting a bacterial infection in your armpit. When you shave, you may be accidentally creating openings in the skin under your arms which can allow bacteria easier access.
  • Poor hygiene. If you do not wash under your arms regularly, dead skin can build up which may contribute to the development of boils or pimples.
  • Weak immune system. If you have a weak immune system, your body may be less able to fight off a bacterial infection. Boils are also more common if you have diabetes mellitus, cancer, eczema or allergies.

Do not pick at, pop, or squeeze your boil. Among other negative results, popping your boil may cause the infection to spread. Also, squeezing the boil may allow additional bacteria to enter the lesion from your hands or fingers.

To help your boil heal:

  • Use antibacterial soap to clean the area.
  • Apply moist, warm compresses to the area several times a day.
  • Do not attempt to pop the boil.

If your boil does not go away after two weeks, you should get treatment from a medical provider. Your doctor may cut the boil open to drain the pus. You may also be prescribed antibiotics to heal the underlying infection.

You may be wondering whether the bump in your skin under your arm is a boil or a pimple. A pimple is characterized by an infection of a sebaceous gland. This gland is closer to the top layer of the skin (epidermis) than a hair follicle. If a pimple is raised, it will likely be smaller than a boil.

A boil is an infection of the hair follicle which is located deeper in the second layer of skin (dermis), closer to the fat tissue beneath your skin. The infection then pushes out to the top layer of the skin creating a larger bump.

While uncomfortable, boils under your arm are not usually anything to worry about. The boil will most likely improve or heal itself within two weeks.

If you boil grows larger, sticks around for more than two weeks or causes you to have a fever or intense pain, talk to your doctor. You might need a prescription for antibiotics or your doctor might open and drain your boil.

Should You Do It and When to Call a Doctor

How to Pop a Boil: Should You Do It and When to Call a Doctor

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Medically reviewed by Amanda Caldwell, MSN, APRN-C — By Tessa Sawyers — Updated on April 25, 2023

You may be tempted to pop or lance a boil at home, but do not do this. This can spread infection and make the boil worse. Your boil may contain bacteria that could be dangerous if not properly treated.

If your boil is painful or isn’t healing, have it checked by a healthcare professional. They may need to surgically open and drain the boil and prescribe antibiotics.

Boils are caused by inflammation of a hair follicle or sweat gland. Typically, the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus causes this inflammation.

A boil usually appears as a hard lump under the skin. It then develops into a firm balloon-like growth under the skin as it fills with pus.

A boil typically appears in crevices or places where sweat and oil can build up, such as:

  • underarms
  • waist area
  • buttocks
  • under breasts
  • groin area

A boil commonly has a white or yellow center, which is caused by the pus inside it. The boil may spread to other areas of the skin. A cluster of boils connected to each other under the skin is called a carbuncle.

A boil can heal on its own. However, it may become more painful as pus continues to build in the lesion.

Instead of popping or picking at the boil, which can lead to infection, treat the boil with care. Follow these steps:

  1. Use a clean, warm cloth to apply a compress to the boil. You can repeat this several times a day to encourage the boil to come to a head and drain.
  2. Keep the area clean. Wash your hands after touching the affected area.
  3. If the boil is painful, take an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol).
  4. When open, the boil may weep or ooze liquid. Once the boil opens, cover it to prevent infection in the open wound. Use an absorbent gauze or pad to prevent the pus from spreading. Change the gauze or pad frequently.

If your boil doesn’t heal with home treatment, you may need to visit a doctor. Medical treatment may include:

  • topical or oral antibiotics
  • surgical incision
  • tests to determine the cause of boil

Surgical treatment usually involves draining the boil. Your doctor will make a small incision in the face of the boil. They will use an absorbent material, such as gauze, to soak up pus inside the boil.

Do not attempt this at home. Your home isn’t a sterile environment like a hospital setting. You’re at risk of developing a more serious infection or scarring.

Call a doctor if your boil:

  • worsens quickly
  • is accompanied by fever
  • hasn’t improved in 2 or more weeks
  • is bigger than 2 inches across
  • is accompanied by symptoms of infection

Resist the urge to pick at and pop your boil. Instead, apply warm compresses and keep the area clean.

If your boil doesn’t improve within 2 weeks or shows signs of serious infection, talk with a doctor or other healthcare professional. They may recommend lancing and draining the boil, and may prescribe antibiotics.

Last medically reviewed on June 15, 2022

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

  • Boils. (n.d.).
    aocd.org/page/Boils
  • Boils. (2020).
    nhs.uk/conditions/boils/
  • Folliculitis, boils, and carbuncles. (n.d.).
    hopkinsmedicine.org/healthlibrary/conditions/dermatology/folliculitis_boils_and_carbuncles_85,P00285
  • How to treat boils and styes. (n.d.).
    aad.org/public/skin-hair-nails/skin-care/boils-and-styes

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

Apr 25, 2023

Written By

Tessa Sawyers

Edited By

Britt Gambino

Copy Edited By

Sara Giusti

Jun 15, 2022

Medically Reviewed By

Amanda Caldwell, MSN, APRN-C

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Medically reviewed by Amanda Caldwell, MSN, APRN-C — By Tessa Sawyers — Updated on April 25, 2023

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Furuncle treatment in Kaliningrad | Medical center “Nadezhda”

Furuncle is an acute purulent-necrotic process that affects the hair follicle, sebaceous gland and surrounding soft tissues. The doctor-surgeon deals with the diagnosis and treatment of the disease.

Etiology of the development of the disease

The leading cause of boil inflammation is Staphylococcus aureus. The latter belongs to the group of opportunistic microorganisms – natural inhabitants of the organism’s biotope. They cause diseases only with a significant decrease in immunity. Thus, the penetration of staphylococcus into the hair follicle and the formation of a boil can only provoke immunodeficiency states.

Risk factors

Risk factors for the formation of a boil include:

  • Decompensation of chronic diseases;
  • Acute infectious and inflammatory pathologies;
  • Metabolic syndrome;
  • Diabetes mellitus;
  • Chronic use of immunosuppressive drugs;
  • Hypovitaminosis;
  • Mechanical damage to the skin;
  • Hyperfunction of sebaceous and sweat glands.

Typically, patients have one or a combination of several risk factors.

Clinical picture

Furuncle localization can be different. In most cases, there is a development of a purulent-necrotic process in those areas where friction or increased contamination of the skin occurs (face, neck, lower limbs, armpits, inguinal folds).

As for the clinical picture of the disease, the furuncle goes through several stages in its development:

  • Infiltration. Symptoms of a boil are expressed implicitly. Patients talk about the formation of a pathological focus in the area of ​​the hair follicle: hyperemia, swelling, induration, pain syndrome appear. Within a few days, the infiltrate increases in size, the symptoms increase.
  • Suppuration and necrosis. It develops on 3-4 days from the onset of the pathology. Symptoms of a boil become more distinct. A purulent-necrotic core is formed, a pustule can already be identified on the skin. There are clinical manifestations of general intoxication: hyperthermia, general malaise, weakness. There is a sharp pain syndrome. At the peak of the course of the pathology, the boil opens, pus is poured out. The general condition of the patient then improves, local symptoms also subside.
  • Healing. In the area of ​​the opened furuncle, granulation tissue is formed. At the site of the current purulent-necrotic process, it is possible to determine the formation of a scar. Symptoms of a boil in this stage are practically absent.

In isolated cases, the furuncle occurs without pronounced clinical manifestations.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of boil inflammation begins with a conversation with the patient. Complaints of a person are carefully listened to, an anamnesis of the disease and life is collected. Special attention is paid to risk factors for the development of the disease.

Next comes the physical examination. In most cases, this is enough to make a diagnosis. The furuncle has a characteristic clinical picture and further verification is meaningless.

To determine the type of microorganism and its sensitivity to antibacterial drugs, the biological material obtained from the wound is sent for microbiological examination. This diagnostic method will give an accurate answer to the question of which antibacterial drug and how to treat a boil.

Treatment

Furuncle treatment is exclusively surgical. When the purulent-necrotic rod matures, an incision is made over the neoplasm, pus is evacuated, the cavity is washed with an antiseptic and antibacterial preparation. After removing the boil, drainage is introduced into the wound. For several days, patients come for dressings to control the course of the disease. It should be said that there are no other ways to get rid of a boil.

Antibacterial therapy is also important in the treatment of boils. The drug is prescribed even before the results of the microbiological study are obtained. With inflammation of the boil, broad-spectrum antibacterial drugs are often recommended.

In addition to other medicines, after removal of the boil, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed. They effectively relieve pain and stop inflammation.

It should be noted that only a professional is engaged in the treatment of purulent formation. Self-medication will lead to the development of many adverse effects.

Operations to remove boils in the medical center “Nadezhda” are carried out by competent specialists. Patients who come to the clinic do not have to worry about the cost of the procedure. Prices are reasonable and loyal.

Furuncle under the arm: causes and treatment of boils

Purulent boil under the arm is formed as a result of inflammation of the hair follicle. The pathological process captures the sebaceous gland located next to the hair follicle and the tissues surrounding it. As a result, the subcutaneous neoplasm acquires a large size. Boils that appear under the armpits are considered the most painful. The inflamed place is in the folds of the skin, clothing constantly touches it. The causes and treatment of this pathology combines weakened immunity. Therefore, a person suffering from furunculosis, the doctor prescribes not only the use of external disinfecting solutions and anti-inflammatory ointments, but also the use of drugs that strengthen the immune system.

Contents

  1. What boils look like
  2. Why boils appear under the armpits
  3. Stages of furunculosis
  4. What is the danger
  5. How to get rid of a boil in the armpit
  6. Preparations
  7. Surgical methods
  8. How to treat at home
  9. Laundry dark brown soap
  10. Raw potatoes
  11. Physiotherapy
  12. Treating boils in children
  13. Do’s and Don’ts
  14. Preventive measures

What boils look like

When a person has one large boil under the arm, it is called a boil. If there are several such painful acne, then we are talking about the development of furunculosis. Changes may look different. The furuncle, which is just appearing, is a subcutaneous dense knot. Visually, it can be seen on inflamed, red skin.

After a few days, the size of the infiltrate changes, a yellow dot appears in the center. This begins to form a purulent core. Gradually, the abscess takes on a cone-shaped shape. The skin above it becomes transparent, under it you can see a purulent-necrotic mass.

Furunculosis in the armpit with improperly prescribed treatment can take a chronic course. And this means that boils in the area of ​​the hairline will form until the immune system of the skin gets stronger.

Why boils appear under the armpits

Boils appear in the armpit when the infection penetrates the mouths of the hair follicles. Healthy skin microflora includes opportunistic bacteria (staphylococci, streptococci). On the surface of the skin, these microbes behave peacefully. As soon as they penetrate into the body, for example, through scratches and cuts, they become aggressive and cause purulent inflammation. It turns out that the source of infection is the person himself.

The main causes of boils under the armpits:

  • weak general and local immune system;
  • excessive sweating and lack of hygiene;
  • wearing tight synthetic clothing.

If a solitary boil under the armpit is treated incorrectly, for example, by applying a warm compress, this will lead to the spread of inflammation to healthy areas of the skin and the appearance of new purulent formations.

Stages of furunculosis

Symptoms of furunculosis depend on the stage of development of the disease. The pathological process in all people proceeds in the same way, but only a few know how to stop inflammation and make the infiltrate dissolve even at the beginning of its occurrence.

Furuncle development stages:

  1. First day. Ostiofolliculitis develops – the skin around the hair follicle becomes dense, reddens and swells. The person begins to feel a painful burning sensation under the arm.
  2. Second or third day. The infiltrate increases to 3 cm in diameter. Inside, a purulent core begins to form in him. The skin around the pathological focus, which gradually matures, becomes hot. The affected area is very sore.
  3. Fourth or sixth day. The skin around the purulent infiltrate changes color to red-blue, in the center of the focus it becomes thin and transparent, pus is visible under it.
  4. Seventh or tenth day. When the abscess matures, the skin over the purulent core softens, the purulent-necrotic masses on the surface come out. Within 24 hours, healthy tissues reject the rod, after which healing begins.

The described process is relevant only for those cases that are not complicated in any way.

What is the danger

Sometimes a furuncle on the armpit does not break through for a very long time. To speed up the process, some people apply hot compresses to the sore spot, after which they try to squeeze out the purulent rod. This causes complications that happen:

  • Local. Pathological foci are formed when pus is poured inward. As a result, an abscess or phlegmon develops.
  • Remote. The infection from the boil penetrates into the lymphatic and blood vessels, the lymph and blood carry it throughout the body, which leads to sepsis.

When a furuncle forms in the armpit, the most common complication is furunculosis. This skin disease is characterized by the appearance of a large number of new boils in a short time. Then the disease takes a chronic course.

How to get rid of a boil in the armpit

If a boil has just begun to form under the arm, then a medical method is used to treat such a boil. The infiltrate is treated several times a day with a cotton swab with an alcohol solution of 2% salicylic acid or 5% iodine solution. Preparations dry and disinfect the skin, relieve inflammation. As a result, the subcutaneous formation resolves within 1-2 days.

Only a specialist will help to cure a boil that does not break through for a long time. In such cases, doctors do not recommend looking for ways to treat themselves. All that the patient can do on their own to get rid of the pain under the arm is to apply an ointment with an analgesic effect Levosin to the inflamed area.

Preparations

If the boil under the armpit is treated correctly, then on the 5th-6th day the infected area will break through. The list of most commonly prescribed local remedies for the treatment of boils are:

  • Vishnevsky liniment. It is used as a compress, which is changed 2 times a day. The drug causes a rush of blood to the inflamed area, which leads to the expulsion of pus out.
  • Ichthyol. The ointment is applied to the boil under a bandage, it is changed every 8 hours. The agent accelerates the maturation of the furuncle under the arm, anesthetizes the wound and excludes the attachment of a secondary infection.
  • Levomekol. The composition of the drug contains an antibacterial substance and a component that strengthens the skin’s immunity. The wound is filled with a combined ointment, a bandage is applied on top, but this is done after the boil under the arm breaks.

In advanced cases, only on the advice of a doctor, the patient should drink a course of antibiotics (Cefalexin, Lincomycin).

As a rule, the need for such treatment occurs with furunculosis and with prolonged maturation of the pathological focus under the arm. Patients must be prescribed vitamins and drugs that help strengthen general and local immunity.

Surgical methods

Usually, those who are looking for a way to treat a boil quickly find themselves in the surgeon’s office because of an abscess (large internal abscess). Although the patients of this specialist also become people whose boil cannot open on its own. It is impossible to endure such a condition, as it is accompanied by severe piercing-cutting pain and fever. It is possible to effectively get rid of the problem only through surgical intervention.

The operation is carried out according to the following scheme:

  1. The inflamed area is anesthetized with chlorethyl, a preparation for surface anesthesia. With a deep location of the abscess, it is chipped with novocaine.
  2. The purulent focus under the arm is opened with a pointed scalpel. Pus does not always come out at the same time as the rod, the rod is rejected within a day.
  3. The wound is treated with a disinfectant solution (chlorhexidine, hydrogen peroxide), Levomekol is applied, and a bandage is applied.

After the operation, the patient is transferred to the ward. He is on strict bed rest, liquid food, and intramuscular antibiotic therapy (penicillin every 3 hours).

How to treat at home

Some people manage to get rid of boils using traditional methods of treatment. Doctors categorically do not recommend such a risk for allergy sufferers and people with diabetes, as well as those who have problems with immunity. As a rule, these are people with inflammatory chronic diseases. Anyone who considers themselves healthy can treat a furuncle under the arm at home using soap or potatoes.

Dark brown laundry soap

This product contains natural fatty acids and alkali. These components help relieve inflammation and draw pus out for two days.

How to prepare: a bar of soap should be crushed into a saucepan with a grater, pour 300 ml of water. Then it should be cooked over low heat until a homogeneous mass is obtained.

How to use: form a cake from the cooled softened product, apply to the boil so that it covers healthy areas of the skin. Put a piece of bandage on top of the cake, fix it under the arm with a plaster. After 4 hours, change the cake.

Raw potatoes

To get the pus out of the furuncle under the arm faster, you can treat it at home with a potato compress.

How to make: Cut a thin plate from a large peeled potato.

With multiple boils under the armpits, it is better not to self-medicate, the treatment process should take place under the supervision of a doctor, otherwise there is a high probability of blood poisoning.

How to use: apply potatoes to the boil, put compress paper on top, fix the design under the arm in a convenient way. Change potato plates up to 4 times a day.

Physiotherapy

To relieve inflammation and strengthen local immunity, patients with both single boils and recurrent furunculosis are prescribed physiotherapy procedures:

  • Heat therapy. If one boil jumped up, then dry heat is applied at an early stage of the disease. Sessions help to quickly mature the pathological focus.
  • Ultra high frequency therapy. Strengthens skin immunity, relieves inflammation, helps to resolve the infiltrate, improves the local metabolic process.
  • UV therapy. Under the influence of ultraviolet rays, scarring of damaged skin is accelerated and its immunity is increased.

Spa treatment is recommended for patients with chronic furunculosis.

Treatment of a boil in children

Often parents do not know what to do and what medicines to use when their child has a boil under his arm. To avoid complications, doctors do not recommend considering grandmother’s methods as an effective treatment option. First of all, with a problem, you need to contact a pediatrician. The specialist will examine a small patient and prescribe treatment using the following drugs:

  • Vishnevsky’s ointment – for the rapid maturation of the infiltrate.
  • Levomekol – prescribed after the opening of the abscess, helps to completely clean the wound.