What causes boils on the skin? Discover the symptoms, common sites, diagnosis, stages, and treatment options for hidradenitis suppurativa, a chronic inflammatory condition that leads to painful skin bumps.

Understanding Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory condition that causes painful bumps under the skin in areas with hair follicles and sweat glands. Also known as acne inversa, this condition can lead to the formation of pus-filled pockets under the skin that may break open and release a foul-smelling discharge. While there is no cure for HS, various treatments and lifestyle changes can help manage the symptoms and reduce the frequency of flare-ups.

Causes of Hidradenitis Suppurativa

The exact cause of hidradenitis suppurativa is not fully understood, but it is believed to be due to a combination of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. HS is more common in women than in men, and it is also more likely to occur in individuals who are overweight, smoke, or have a history of acne. Approximately one-third of people with HS have a close relative with the condition.

Symptoms of Hidradenitis Suppurativa

The primary symptoms of hidradenitis suppurativa include the development of painful, inflamed bumps under the skin, often in areas where the skin rubs together or where there are hair follicles and sweat glands. These bumps can turn into pus-filled pockets, which can break open and release a foul-smelling discharge. In severe cases, the condition can lead to the formation of tunnels (sinus tracts) under the skin, connecting different areas of the HS outbreaks.

Common Sites of Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Hidradenitis suppurativa typically affects areas where the skin rubs together, such as the underarms, groin, buttocks, thighs, under the breasts, and the nape of the neck. These areas are prone to the development of the characteristic bumps and pus-filled pockets.

Diagnosing Hidradenitis Suppurativa

To diagnose hidradenitis suppurativa, your doctor will examine your skin and ask about your symptoms, such as when they started, how often you experience them, and if any close relatives have had similar issues. In some cases, the doctor may take a sample of the pus from the affected area and send it to a lab for testing to rule out other types of infections.

Stages of Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Hidradenitis suppurativa is divided into three stages, known as the Hurley stages, based on the severity of the condition:

• Hurley stage I: A single or multiple isolated bumps with no sinus tracts
• Hurley stage II: Multiple bumps with some sinus tracts and scarring
• Hurley stage III: Multiple bumps with a lot of sinus tracts and scars, involving an entire area of the body

Treating Hidradenitis Suppurativa

The treatment for hidradenitis suppurativa will depend on the severity of your case. Your doctor may start with conservative treatments, such as warm compresses or over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, and then progress to more advanced therapies if needed. These can include:

• Antibiotics: Oral or topical antibiotics to fight infections
• Corticosteroids: Injections or oral steroids to reduce inflammation and pain
• Oral retinoids: Medications like acitretin or isotretinoin to improve severe cases
• Topical resorcinol: A cream applied to inflamed areas
• Surgery: In some cases, surgical procedures may be necessary to remove affected skin or sinus tracts

Lifestyle Changes to Manage Hidradenitis Suppurativa

In addition to medical treatment, making certain lifestyle changes can help manage the symptoms of hidradenitis suppurativa and reduce the frequency of flare-ups. These may include:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Quitting smoking
• Avoiding irritation or friction in the affected areas
• Practicing good hygiene and keeping the skin clean
• Managing stress and anxiety, which can worsen HS symptoms

While hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic condition that can be challenging to manage, the combination of appropriate medical treatment and lifestyle modifications can help improve your quality of life and reduce the impact of this condition.

Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Stages, and Treatment

Written by Katherine Kam

• What Is Hidradenitis Suppurativa?
• Causes
• Symptoms
• Common Sites
• Diagnosis
• Questions for Your Doctor
• Stages
• Treatment
• Lifestyle Changes
• Complications
• Outlook
• More

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory condition that causes painful bumps under your skin in the hair roots and/or near some of your sweat glands. It’s also known as acne inversa.

The bumps can get infected. When that happens, pockets form under your skin and fill with pus. They can smell bad when they break open. They can also leave scars.

There’s no cure for HS, but treatments and lifestyle changes can bring some relief and cut down on flare-ups.

Because this condition lasts a long time, it can be frustrating, and it can take an emotional toll on you. Make sure you get the support you need.

Doctors aren’t sure what causes hidradenitis suppurativa, but it’s probably due to a combination of genes, hormones, and the environment. 

It’s more common in women than in men. It’s also more likely if you’re overweight, if you smoke, and if you’ve had acne. About a third of people who get HS have a relative with it.

The skin problems start when hair follicles get blocked. You often get the first symptoms in your teens or 20s.

You don’t get HS because you don’t wash enough, because you use deodorants or powders, or because you shave your underarms. You also can’t catch it from someone else or give it to another person.

HS usually affects both sides of your body. You can get the bumps in one place or in several areas at once.

The first warning sign might be a single painful bump that gets inflamed. It can last days or months. You could have repeated outbreaks of a single bump in the same location or the same general area.

Besides turning into pockets of pus, the bumps can be itchy. Your skin might have small pitted areas with blackheads.

Some people get tunnels under their skin, called sinus tracts, which connect different areas of HS outbreaks.

The bumps and leaky pockets can go away and come back. In severe cases, they don’t fully heal.

The blockages usually happen in areas where you have hair or where your skin rubs together, such as:

• Under your arms
• In your groin
• Between your buttocks
• Between your thighs
• Under your breasts
• In the folds of your stomach
• On the nape of your neck
• Behind your ears

Your doctor will check your skin and make a diagnosis based on where the bumps and pockets are and how often you have them.

They may also ask you things like:

• How long ago did your symptoms begin?
• Are they painful?
• Have you had these symptoms before?
• Have any close relatives had this problem?

You probably won’t have tests unless your doctor needs to rule out other kinds of infections. Then, they’ll take a sample of pus and send it to a lab for testing.

• How mild or severe is my hidradenitis suppurativa?
• What treatments are available? Which do you recommend?
• Should I take an antibiotic? What about other medications?
• Could these medications cause side effects?
• Will I need surgery?
• What lifestyle changes should I make to improve my illness?
• Should I lose weight?
• If my symptoms get worse, when should I call you?
• Will the disorder go away on its own?

HS is divided into three stages, based on how severe it is, called Hurley stages.

• Hurley stage I: A single or multiple isolated bumps with no sinus tracts
• Hurley stage II: Multiple bumps with some sinus tracts and scarring
• Hurley stage III: Multiple bumps with a lot of sinus tracts and scars, involving an entire area of your body

Your treatment will be based on how severe your case is. You and your doctor might have to try multiple treatments to find the one that works best for you.

Treatments include:

Warm compresses. You might try this first if your case is mild. Run a clean washcloth under hot water and hold it on your skin for 10 minutes.

NSAIDs(nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). These over-the-counter medicines can ease your pain and help manage swelling. They include:

• Aspirin
• Ibuprofen
• Naproxen

Antibiotics. These medications fight infections. You can swallow them as a pill, or you can use a cream, ointment, cleanser, wash, or gel on your skin.

At first, you may use doxycycline or minocycline for 2 to 3 months. If that doesn’t help, your doctor may suggest a combination of clindamycin and rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane).

Corticosteroids. Your doctor injects these medicines into the bumps. They can ease inflammation, pain, and swelling. You usually get these shots once a month for up to 3 months. If your case is severe, your doctor may recommend that you take steroid pills by mouth.

Oral retinoids. Your doctor may suggest a retinoid medication in a pill, such as acitretin (Soriatane) or isotretinoin (Accutane). Both can improve severe cases of HS.

Topical resorcinol. This is a cream that you put on inflamed areas of your skin. It has chemicals that peel the skin.

Hormone therapy. Some women find that their condition gets better if they take birth control pills or a drug called spironolactone.

Biologics. These medications work on your immune system, your body’s defense system against germs. You take them by getting a shot, either at the doctor’s office or at home. Or you may need to get the meds through an IV in your veins. This is done at a clinic or hospital.

These drugs include:

• Adalimumab (Humira). This medicine is the only one approved by the FDA to treat HS.
• Infliximab (Remicade). The FDA hasn’t approved this for HS, but doctors still use it.
• Anakinra, canakinumab, and ustekinumab. These medications may help some people with severe or hard-to-treat HS. Researchers are studying how well they work.

Biologics can clear up HS for a long time, but they can also have serious side effects, so doctors use them only for severe cases.

Other medications. These include:

• Metformin (Glucophage). Doctors use this to treat adult-onset diabetes and metabolic syndrome. It may also help patients with HS.
• Methotrexate (Xatmep). It is a pill, shot, or IV that controls the inflammation of psoriasis and other medical conditions, including some cancers. It works on your immune system and may help control HS in some people.

Surgery. If your bumps grow deep into your skin, you might have a surgical procedure. If you’re having problems in a small area, your doctor can cut open pockets to drain pus. This gives you short-term relief.

In a procedure called deroofing, your doctor turns deep, painful bumps and pockets into scars that won’t hurt. It’s an option if you have painful bumps that come back over and over.

Another type of surgery involves cutting out skin in the problem spots. Afterward, your doctor will do a skin graft. They take skin from another part of your body and use it to cover the area where you had the operation.

Laser surgery is another option to clear new, deep bumps. It destroys hair follicles, the shafts in your skin where hair grows. You may need several treatments.

Surgery can help with stubborn or severe cases of HS, but for some people, it may come back in the same area or somewhere else.

Try these tips to make your HS less severe and slow outbreaks.

Lose extra weight. This can ease your symptoms by making your skin rub together less.

Quit smoking. Not only does this cut your risk of cancer and heart disease, it can make your HS less severe. Talk to your doctor about programs that can help you break the habit.

Don’t shave trouble spots. This can keep you from irritating your skin. Ask your dermatologist about other ways to get rid of unwanted hair.

Wear loose-fitting clothes. Outfits that are tight can cause your skin to rub, making your flare-ups worse.

Stay cool. You can get flare-ups when you get too warm and sweat. But be careful about using deodorants, which can sometimes irritate your skin. Ask your dermatologist for suggestions about one that won’t cause problems.

Keep clean. Wash HS areas gently every day with your fingers. Scrubbing with a washcloth or brush can irritate your skin. Use an antibacterial soap, which can help get rid of odor.

Use the right bandage. If a pocket is leaking, cover it with a bandage that doesn’t stick to the bump. Use plenty of petroleum jelly on the gauze that covers the area. Avoid using adhesive tape as much as possible.

HS that is severe or isn’t treated can have complications over time, including:

• Deep pockets of infection (abscesses)
• Trouble moving because of scar tissue
• Hollow passages inside your body (fistulas)
• Lymph node problems
• Arthritis
• A skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma
• Depression and isolation

HS can last for years, but early treatment can help you feel better and lower the risk of flare-ups.

In severe cases, hidradenitis suppurativa can get worse and cause scars. Surgery can help, although the disease comes back about one-third of the time. It’s still important to keep up with lifestyle changes that can make you feel better.

Turn to people you trust to give you the backing you need while you get treated. You might join a support group where you can talk freely with people who understand your situation. Ask your doctor about how to find a group near you.

Talk to your close family and friends about your condition, or consider seeing a professional counselor. They can help make sure you don’t let your skin problems keep you from enjoying an active social life.

You can learn more about your condition on the website of the Hidradenitis Suppurativa Foundation.

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Boils and carbuncles | nidirect

Boils and carbuncles are red, painful lumps that form just under the surface of the skin. They are usually caused by a bacterial infection.

Boils 

Boils can develop anywhere on your skin. But you’re most likely to get a boil in an area where there’s a combination of hair, sweat and friction, such as the face, neck, armpits or thighs.

A boil on the back of the hand

Over time, pus forms inside the boil, making it bigger and more painful. Most boils eventually burst. The pus then drains away without leaving a scar. This can take from two days to three weeks to happen.

It can sometimes be difficult to tell the difference between a boil and a spot. But boils tend to grow bigger and become more painful. Your GP should be able to diagnose a boil from its appearance.

Carbuncles 

A carbuncle is a dome-shaped cluster of boils. It usually develops over a few days. The areas most commonly affected are the back, thighs, or back of the neck. 

A carbuncle is a dome-shaped cluster of boils

A carbuncle can grow to a size of 3-10cm and will leak pus from a number of points.

You may also:

• have a high temperature of 38C (100.4F) or above
• feel generally unwell
• feel weak and exhausted

Carbuncles are less common than boils. They tend to mostly affect middle-aged or older men in poor health or with a weakened immune system. Boils are common in adolescents and young adults.

When to see your GP 

See your GP if you think you have a carbuncle.

With boils, you don’t usually need to see a doctor as most boils burst and heal by themselves. But see your GP if you have a boil:

• on your face, nose or spine – this can sometimes cause serious complications
• that gets bigger and feels soft and spongy to touch – it may not burst and heal by itself
• that doesn’t heal within two weeks
• and you have a temperature and feel generally unwell

Your GP should be able to identify a boil or carbuncle by looking at it.

Treating boils and carbuncles 

Self care 

Most boils get better without the need for medical treatment.

One of the best ways to speed up healing is to apply a warm, moist face cloth to the boil for 10-20 minutes, three or four times a day.

Be careful not to use water that’s too hot. Make sure the face cloth is not too warm to avoid a scald or burn. Test how warm it is using the skin on the back of your hand.

The heat increases the amount of blood circulating around the boil. This sends more infection-fighting white blood cells to the area.

When the boil bursts, cover it with sterile gauze or a dressing. This is to prevent the spread of infection.

Afterwards, wash your hands thoroughly using hot water and soap.

Never squeeze or pierce a boil because it could spread the infection.

You can use over-the-counter painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, to help relieve any pain caused by the boil.

Draining boils 

If your boil doesn’t heal, your GP may decide to drain it, or refer you to hospital to have this done. They’ll usually numb the area first and then use a sterile needle or scalpel to pierce the boil.

Antibiotics 

Antibiotics are usually recommended:

• for all cases of carbuncles
• if you have a high temperature
• if you develop a secondary infection, such as cellulitis (infection of the deeper layers of the skin)
• if you have a boil on your face – facial boils have a higher risk of causing complications
• if you’re in severe pain and discomfort

It’s very important to finish the course of antibiotics even if the boil goes away. If you don’t the infection could return.

Treating recurrent boils and carbuncles 

You’re likely to need further treatment if you keep getting boils or carbuncles.

Most people who keep getting boils are carriers of Staphylococcus aureus (staph bacteria). This means they have staph bacteria living on their skin or inside their nose.

Treatment will depend on where the bacteria are found on your body. Your GP will advise you about treatment.

Causes of boils and carbuncles 

Boils and carbuncles are often caused by a type of bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus (staph bacteria) that infects one or more hair follicles.

You can get a boil when bacteria enter the skin through cuts and grazes.

A carbuncle develops when the infection spreads further beneath the skin to create a cluster of boils.

Complications of boils and carbuncles 

Although most boils and carbuncles don’t cause further problems, some people develop a secondary infection.

This can range from a minor (though often very painful) infection of the deeper layer of the skin, such as cellulitis, to rarer and more serious complications, such as sepsis.

Larger boils and carbuncles can also lead to scarring.

Preventing boils and carbuncles 

You can’t always avoid getting a boil or carbuncle, but these simple steps can reduce your risk:

• wash your skin regularly using a mild antibacterial soap
• carefully clean any cuts, wounds or grazes (even small ones) 
• cover cuts, wounds and grazes with a sterile bandage until they heal
• eat healthily and exercise regularly to boost your immune system

Catching boils or carbuncles

You can catch a boil or carbuncle. Unlike acne, boils and carbuncles can spread to another part of the body or to another person.

To prevent boils and carbuncles spreading, take simple precautions such as:

• washing your hands after touching affected areas
• using a separate face cloth and towel
• washing underwear, bed linen and towels at a high temperature
• covering wounds with a dressing until they heal
• carefully disposing of used dressings

More useful links

• How to use your health services

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Furuncle and carbuncle: symptoms, causes and treatment

Contents

• 1 Furuncle and carbuncle: symptoms, treatment and prevention
  • 1.1 Furuncle and carbuncle: symptoms, causes and treatment
    • 1.1.1 What are furuncle and carbuncle?
  • 1.2 Symptoms of boils and carbuncles
  • 1.3 Causes of boils and carbuncles
  • 1. 4 Furuncle and carbuncle: symptoms, causes and treatment
    • 1.4.1 Risk factors
  • 1.5 Complications of boils and carbuncles
  • 1.6 Diagnosis of boils and carbuncles
  • 1.7 Treatment of boils and carbuncles
    • 1.7.1 Medication medical treatment
    • 1.7.2 Surgical treatment
    • 1.7.3 Home treatment
  • 1.8 Medical treatment treatment
  • 1.9 Surgical treatment of boils and carbuncles
    • 1.9.1 Drainage
    • 1.9.2 Excision
    • 1.9.3 Laser therapy
    • 1.9.4 Autoplasma therapy
  • 1.10 Skin care
    • 1.10.1 Cleanliness and hygiene
    • 1.10.2 Compresses and ointments

    9 0005 1.10.3 Avoid friction and pressure

    • 1.10.4 Nutrition and hygiene
  • 1.11 Prevention of boils and carbuncles
    • 1.11.1 Maintaining hygiene
    • 1.11.2 Strengthening the immune system
    • 1.11.3 Reducing skin trauma

    9 0011

    • 1. 12 Related videos:
    • 1.13 Q&A:
      • • 1.13.0.1 What are furuncle and carbuncle?
        • 1.13.0.2 What are the causes of boils and carbuncles?
        • 1.13.0.3 What are the symptoms of a boil and carbuncle?
        • 1.13.0.4 What are the treatments for boils and carbuncles?
        • 1.13.0.5 Can boils and carbuncles be prevented?
        • 1.13.0.6 What can happen if a boil or carbuncle is not treated?

  Boils and carbuncles are skin conditions caused by a bacterial infection. In the article we will talk about how the development occurs, the symptoms and methods of treatment of these diseases, as well as give recommendations for prevention.

  Boils and carbuncles are skin infections that result from a staphylococcal or streptococcal infection. They are among the most common skin infections in humans and can cause significant discomfort and soreness.

  A boil, also known as a ‘var’, is a collection of purulent discharge that forms in the hair follicle. A carbuncle is similar to an enlarged boil, but affects a larger area of ​​​​the skin and is subject to more serious treatment.

  Signs of a boil are skin redness, swelling, pain and purulent discharge. Carbuncle has similar symptoms but can cause other symptoms such as fever, headache, and general weakness.

  Boils and carbuncles can be treated topically with warm compresses and antiseptics, as well as anti-inflammatory and antibacterial drugs. In some cases, minimally invasive procedures or surgery may be required.

  Furuncle and carbuncle: symptoms, causes and treatment

  What are furuncle and carbuncle?

  Furuncle and carbuncle are skin infections caused by the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus. A furuncle is an infection of the hair follicle and its surrounding tissue. A carbuncle is a merger of several boils into a single extensive infection.

  Boils and carbuncles can occur anywhere on the body, but the head, face, neck, armpits, buttocks and thighs are most commonly affected. The disease is accompanied by the development of purulent sepsis, which, in the absence of timely assistance, can lead to serious complications.

  • Furuncle is an infection of the hair follicle and its surrounding tissue uncula and carbuncle is the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus
  • The disease is accompanied by the development of purulent sepsis, which can lead to serious complications

  Symptoms of boils and carbuncles

  Furuncle is an acute purulent inflammation of the hair follicle, which manifests itself as a painful red knot with a pustule in the center. The initial stage of the boil may pass without symptoms, but then there is soreness, swelling, redness and heat around the node. The opening of the pustule can lead to the discharge of pus and the appearance of a crust.

  Carbuncle is a form of furuncle that affects several hair follicles instead of one and covers a wider area of ​​the skin. Carbuncle manifests itself through a group of painful nodes that combine into a single focal inflammation, accompanied by the release of a large amount of pus. The skin around the nodes may be very red and swollen, indicating a possible spread of infection.

  1. The main symptoms of a boil are: soreness, swelling, heat and redness around the node;
  2. Carbuncle symptoms may include: groups of painful nodes, pus, redness and swelling of the skin;
  3. Both conditions may be accompanied by: general symptoms such as fever, headache, fatigue, and muscle and joint pain.

  Causes of furuncle and carbuncle

  Furuncle and carbuncle result from infection of the hair follicles as a result of exposure to staphylococcus aureus. Breaking the integrity of the skin exposes the skin to the risk of bacterial infection.

  Factors that contribute to the development of boils and carbuncles include:

  • Weakened immune system;
  • Poor personal hygiene;
  • Reuse of personal hygiene items;
  • Damage to the skin, including scratching and rubbing;
  • Being in a polluted environment;
  • Excessive sweating.

  People with diabetes mellitus, viral infections and disturbed blood microcirculation are more likely to suffer from boils and carbuncles. They are also more difficult to treat.

  Furuncle and carbuncle: symptoms, causes and treatment

  Risk factors

  Immune system disorders: any pathology, when immunity is reduced, weakens the body’s defenses and contributes to the development of infectious skin diseases, including boils.

  Inadequate hygiene: improper skin care can lead to contamination of the skin, which will allow the penetration of bacteria that cause boils into it.

  Injuries and damage to the skin: scratches, cuts, bruises and other mechanical damage to the skin can become a gateway for bacteria and cause the development of a boil.

  Heredity: genetic predisposition to infectious diseases may also be a risk factor in the development of boils.

  Diabetes: People with diabetes are at greater risk of developing boils because elevated blood glucose levels weaken the immune system and the body’s ability to fight infections.

  Poor diet and alcohol consumption: Certain foods and alcohol can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of developing boils.

  Complications of boils and carbuncles

  Although boils and carbuncles are usually simple infections, they can become quite serious if not treated properly. Some of the possible complications are:

  • Abscess – Sometimes the infection can spread to deeper layers of the skin, causing an abscess. This can lead to more serious complications such as sepsis.
  • Burns and scars – if the boil is located on the face, where the skin is more sensitive, it can leave scars or burns, especially if you try to push it.
  • Sepsis – If the infection spreads to the blood, it can lead to a serious illness known as sepsis. Sepsis can be dangerous and require immediate medical attention.

  So if you have a boil or carbuncle, don’t risk it and see a doctor.

  Diagnosis of boils and carbuncles

  Diagnosis of boils and carbuncles is based on the characteristic symptoms of the disease. There is a strong pain syndrome, spontaneous occurrence of high temperature and redness on the skin. In some cases, there may be signs of intoxication – headache, general weakness, vomiting.

  It is important to distinguish a boil from other skin conditions such as atheroma and lymphadenitis. For this, additional diagnostic methods can be used – ultrasound, computed tomography.

  Early access to a doctor and timely diagnosis will allow you to start treatment faster and avoid possible complications.

  Treatment of boils and carbuncles

  Medications

  One way to treat boils and carbuncles is to take antibiotics, which inhibit the growth and reproduction of bacteria. In addition, since such formations are accompanied by severe pain, doctors may prescribe analgesics or anti-inflammatory drugs to alleviate the patient’s condition.

  To avoid the risk of reinfection, topical antiseptics and disinfectants such as iodine, hydrogen peroxide or alcohol are often prescribed. These products help clear the skin and prevent the spread of infection.

  Surgical treatment

  In cases where boils and carbuncles are located in the internal parts of the body, surgical methods of treatment should be used. This may include opening the abscess and removing necrotic tissue. Surgical treatment may also be required in cases where conservative treatment does not give the desired result.

  Home treatment

  In addition to medicinal methods, some simple methods can further alleviate symptoms and speed up healing. For example, warm compresses can be applied to affected areas to improve blood circulation and help drain pus. In addition, you should ensure a comfortable regimen, drink enough fluids and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

  Drug treatment

  For the treatment of boils and carbuncles, different groups of drugs are used, depending on the stage of the disease and the individual characteristics of the patient.

  • Antibacterials – Used to fight infection. Depending on the sensitivity of microorganisms, antibiotics of various groups (penicillins, cephalosporins, macrolides) are prescribed.
  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs – helps reduce swelling, pain and inflammation. The most commonly used drugs are ibuprofen, diclofenac.
  • Corticosteroids – In severe cases, given intravenously or intramuscularly to quickly reduce swelling and inflammation. These drugs can cause side effects, so only a doctor prescribes them.
  • Topical preparations – Used to promote healing and prevent the recurrence of boils. These can be ointments, gels, creams based on antibiotics or antiseptics.

  Allergic reactions, side effects and compatibility with other drugs must be considered when prescribing drug treatment. Self-medication can lead to complications and worsen the patient’s condition, so it is necessary to consult a doctor.

  Surgical treatment of boils and carbuncles

  Drainage

  One of the main methods of surgical treatment of boils and carbuncles is drainage. This process consists in removing purulent masses from the hardened outer layer of the skin. Drainage is performed after the maturity of the boil or carbuncle is reached, and the pressure inside them reaches a maximum.

  Excision

  If the abscess is in critical areas such as the face, nose, ears or groin and the risk of complications is severe, surgical removal may be required. This process, called excision, is performed by cutting the skin over the induration and removing the entire purulent mass, along with the surrounding tissues, if necessary.

  Laser therapy

  In some cases, laser therapy can be used to treat boils and carbuncles. The laser beam allows you to accurately remove abscesses and burn infected tissues, ensuring a minimal risk of infection.

  Autoplasma therapy

  In some cases, the doctor may use autoplasma therapy, in which the patient’s blood is first removed; mainly to obtain platelet-rich plasma. Then, this material is injected back into the patient and the natural tissue healing process is initiated. This method has minimal side effects and has proven itself in the treatment of boils and carbuncles.

  Comparison of surgical methods for the treatment of boils and carbuncles Method Advantages Disadvantages

  Drainage	Simple and fast Minimal risk of complications	Treatment procedures may continue
  Excision is final	Procedure may require general anesthesia Excessive tissue removal can cause scarring and skin deformities
  Laser therapy	Minimal risk of infection	Sufficient time required for tissue repair
  Autoplasma therapy	Minimal risk of side effects Stimulates the natural healing process	High price of the procedure

  Care of the affected area of ​​the skin

  Cleanliness and hygiene

  To prevent the spread of infection in furunka le or carbuncle, it is necessary to ensure the cleanliness of the affected area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe skin. To avoid new infections, it is necessary to clean the wound using an antiseptic. It is recommended to use sterile ampoules or sachets with antiseptic solution to keep the instruments clean.

  Compresses and ointments

  Compresses and ointments help speed up the healing of a boil or carbuncle. For their application, you must follow the rules of hygiene. Treat the affected area of ​​the skin, then apply the chosen preparation using clean hands and wipes. Remember to reapply the ointment and change the compresses regularly.

  Avoid friction and pressure

  Friction and pressure on the affected area may worsen the condition and cause further injury. Avoid rubbing with clothing and, if necessary, use a soft bandage or patch to protect the affected area from pressure.

  Nutrition and Hygiene

  Good nutrition and good hygiene help to strengthen the immune system and prevent new boils and carbuncles. It is recommended to eat more vegetables and fruits, drink enough water and follow the rules of daily hygiene.

  Prevention of boils and carbuncles

  Hygiene

  One of the main ways to prevent boils and carbuncles is hygiene. Always wash hands with soap and water before contact with skin. You should take a shower regularly, change bed linen and clothes. In addition, open wounds and cuts should not be allowed to become infected; an antiseptic should be applied to them.

  Strengthening the immune system

  Strong immunity helps fight infectious diseases, including boils and carbuncles. To strengthen the immune system, you should lead a healthy lifestyle, eat right, drink enough fluids and devote enough time to physical activity. In addition, to strengthen the immune system, you can take vitamin complexes and dietary supplements.

  Reducing skin trauma

  To protect the skin from trauma and reduce the risk of boils and carbuncles, mechanical action must be avoided. Prolonged rubbing or rubbing of the skin should not be allowed, soft clothes and shoes should be used, and skin protection should be used when performing heavy work.

  Preventive measures: Ways of prevention How they work

  Hygiene	Prevents infection
  Strengthens immunity	Improves health body and helps fight infections
  Reduces skin trauma	injuries

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  Q&A:

  What are furuncle and carbuncle?

  A boil is a skin infection that causes hardness, redness, and tenderness, usually on the face, neck, armpits, buttocks, and thighs. Carbuncle is a deep infectious disease that causes the formation of cohesive boils in a cluster.

  What are the causes of boils and carbuncles?

  Boils and carbuncles are usually caused by the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus, which survives on the skin and can cause infection if the skin is broken. Mechanical trauma, the introduction of foreign bodies and other infections can also lead to the development of boils and carbuncles. Some people may also be at increased risk of developing these diseases due to reduced immunity or the presence of other diseases (such as diabetes).

  What are the symptoms of boils and carbuncles?

  Symptoms of a boil and carbuncle may include thickening, redness, and soreness of the skin. Furuncles usually differ from carbuncles in that they are smaller and do not connect with other boils. Carbuncles are characterized by larger and deeper tumors that can be interconnected. Both diseases may also be accompanied by fever, headache, and other symptoms.

  What are the treatments for boils and carbuncles?

  Boils and carbuncles can be treated with antibiotics given by mouth or applied to the surface of the skin. It may also be necessary to remove a boil or carbuncle, especially if they cause severe pain and do not respond to conservative treatment. At home, warm compresses can be applied to the skin to help reduce pain and open the pores for pus to drain. When the first symptoms appear, you should consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and determine the method of treatment.

  Can boils and carbuncles be prevented?

  It is not possible to completely prevent the appearance of boils and carbuncles, but steps can be taken to reduce the risk of their occurrence. It is important to monitor the hygiene of the skin, do not injure it, avoid wearing tight clothes for a long time, wash clothes and bed linen clean. It is also necessary to strengthen the immune system, eat right and do not neglect physical activity.

  What can happen if a boil or carbuncle is not treated?

  If a boil or carbuncle is left untreated, the infection can continue to spread through the skin and cause painful complications such as abscesses or blood infections. In some cases, this can lead to specific complications such as meningitis or pulmonary edema. At the first symptoms, you should consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment of the disease.

  description, causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

  Inflammation of the skin and soft tissues of the epidermis, accompanied by purulent accumulations, is popularly called a boil, in medicine – a furuncle. The process of formation of such formations is painful and in a neglected situation provokes complications. In order to successfully deal with this problem, it is necessary to delve into the nature of the phenomenon.

  How does the disease manifest itself?

  It is impossible not to notice the formation of a boil – already at the initial stage, discomfort is felt at the site of the formation of a small nodule under the skin, often accompanied by itching. The disease always develops according to the same scenario:

  1. A cone-shaped tubercle forms under the skin. The dermis in this place acquires a reddish-purple hue.

  2. Itching changes to soreness.

  3. Inflammation captures nearby tissues, as evidenced by the appearance of swelling.

  4. A white dot appears in the center of the focus – the head of the boil.

  If the inflammation is not treated, an abscess develops inside the boil. The skin over the boil becomes thinner and breaks under the pressure of the accumulated purulent masses. Together with them, necrotic hair follicles leave the wound.

  Complications

  Do not take a boil as something harmless. This problem will not be eliminated on its own, and in a neglected situation it will lead to serious consequences. The furuncle is very quickly reclassified as a carbuncle. Other complications are also possible (depending on the location of the focus):

  • erysipelas;

  • cutaneous nocardiosis and lymphadenitis;

  • inflammation of the eyelids;

  • abscesses not only of external tissues, but also of internal organs;

  • accumulation of pus in the brain;

  • blood poisoning.

  If a woman has a furuncle on her genitals, it will lead to various kinds of gynecological diseases.

  General features

  Furuncle is not such a rare disease. About 17% of the total mass of patients turn to dermatologists with this problem. Recently, a significant proportion falls on inflammation in the nose.

  A seemingly harmless boil in this case can lead to a chronic pathology – non-allergic idiopathic rhinitis.

  Pathogen

  These abscesses are caused by pathogens. Staphylococcus aureus can exist on human skin for a long time without showing itself. But as soon as the immune system weakens, the dermis partially loses its protective properties, and bacteria easily penetrate the epidermis.

  Leaking deep into the pores, staphylococcus attacks the hair follicles. In damaged bulbs, an inflammatory process begins, leading to necrotic phenomena.

  The main factors in the development of a boil

  Not only poor health becomes an impetus for the activity of Staphylococcus aureus. Improper skin care or the individual characteristics of the dermis are common prerequisites leading to the development of a boil.

  Factors stimulating the appearance of boils:

  Prerequisites	Features
  Increased sweating	Body sweat contains aggressive salts. They negatively affect the beneficial microflora of the dermis. But they are an excellent breeding ground for Staphylococcus aureus
  Skin lesions	Abrasions, scratches, wounds – “gates” through which pathogens penetrate the epidermis
  Skin diseases	Various rashes on the skin weaken the protective barrier, so that the pathogen easily penetrates to the follicles
  Violation of hygiene	Improper skin care provokes irritation and creates favorable conditions for the growth of bacteria
  Poor care	Incorrectly selected cosmetic skin care products (without taking into account the type of dermis or low quality) is another factor leading to the formation of a boil

  Certain activities associated with dust, harmful substances and other irritants cause damage to the natural microflora of the skin.

  Internal causes

  Appearance is an indicator of those problems that occur inside the body. Even 1 small boil on the body signals a malfunction in the immune system. The protective barrier of the epidermis ceases to perform its main function, and pathogenic microflora easily penetrates into the subcutaneous layers.

  Recent viral infections can provoke such a situation. Other factors also influence the decrease in immunity:

  • long-term use of psychotropic drugs;

  • feverish conditions;

  • severe hypothermia.

  Boils also appear against the background of hormonal imbalance, which disrupts the rhythm of blood circulation. As a result, epidermal tissues do not receive the nutrition they need and lose their ability to resist pathogens.

  Therefore, even a small inflammation under the skin is already a reason to see a doctor and be examined. This is especially important for people with diabetes.

  Stages of development of the disease

  Furuncle formation occurs in 3 main stages. Each of them has its own characteristics:

  1. Infiltration. Around the hair follicle, “captured” by Staphylococcus aureus, fluid accumulates. The tissues swell and thicken. The diameter of the reddened area is still insignificant – 1-3 cm. At this stage, the pain is mild, but when you touch the focus, you feel an internal tingling sensation.

  2. Purulent-necrotic. From 3-4 days of inflammation, a core is formed inside the boil – a mixture of dead tissues and viscous pus. His white head is already visible under the raised skin. When the rod acquires a significant size, the outer layer of the dermis does not withstand the onslaught and breaks through. Purulent accumulations flow from the recess.

  3. Healing. When the fossa from the boil is completely cleared, it gradually overgrows. If the boil was small, the scar at the site of inflammation will not remain. But the scar that appeared after an impressive boil will disappear over time.

  The disease should be treated already at the 1st stage of its development. In the future, the purulent-necrotic fluid accumulated in the epidermis will cause various complications. Self-opening of the boil will also lead to negative consequences.

  Preventive measures

  Prevention of boils lies in a healthy lifestyle. Proper nutrition, active movements, hardening, compliance with hygiene standards – all contribute to strengthening the immune system. This should include taking care of your health, timely treatment of diseases.

  Therapeutic measures

  The boil requires treatment, and it can be either medical or surgical. Which option the doctor chooses depends on the stage of development of the disease and the complexity of the situation.

  Medical therapy

  This tactic is used when the patient has consulted a doctor in a timely manner. As a rule, the assistance provided is based on local therapy. Each stage has its own:

  1. For the first days, it is enough to cauterize the area of ​​inflammation several times a day with an iodine solution. It is recommended to apply dry heat. Important! It is strictly forbidden to make compresses – this will complicate the patient’s condition.

  2. At the time of the formation of the rod, bandages with ichthyol ointment are applied to the focus. It will soften the dermis, which contributes to the rapid and less painful outflow of purulent masses.

  3. At the last stage, applications with ointments containing an antibiotic are applied to the site of the boil. Also, the doctor will prescribe drugs that accelerate the healing of tissues.

  If the inflammation was severe, and there was a lot of pus in the wound, after opening the boil, the specialist will install a drain for better discharge of necrotic masses. At the final stage of treatment, the cleaned recess is washed with an antiseptic composition.

  Please note! It is impossible to cure a boil with folk remedies, especially if the process is delayed.

  Surgical method

  If the boil is not treated in time, complications will arise. Then the problem will have to be solved radically – surgically. In most cases, the operation is performed on an outpatient basis, under local anesthesia.

  The doctor quickly removes the purulent-necrotic rod, which alleviates the patient’s suffering. After washing the wound and applying a medical bandage, the patient goes home.

  Inpatient treatment is indicated if the boil is large or an abscess has begun to develop under the skin. This will require regular monitoring of medical personnel over the course of tissue healing.

  Assistance from the specialists of the center

  Our doctors not only eliminate the already formed boil, but also prevent the appearance of new boils. In the selection of the correct therapy, the exact establishment of the root cause of the development of the disease helps.