What are the different types of dental abscesses. How can you recognize the symptoms of an abscessed tooth. What causes dental abscesses to form. What treatment options are available for abscessed teeth. How can you prevent dental abscesses from developing.

Understanding Dental Abscesses: Types and Locations

Dental abscesses are pockets of pus that form in different parts of a tooth or surrounding tissues due to bacterial infections. There are three main types of dental abscesses, each characterized by its specific location:

• Periapical abscess: Forms at the tip of a tooth’s root
• Periodontal abscess: Develops on the gum next to the root of a tooth
• Gingival abscess: Occurs on the gums

Understanding the type of abscess is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Periapical abscesses often result from untreated cavities, while periodontal abscesses are typically associated with gum disease. Gingival abscesses, though less common, can occur when foreign objects become embedded in the gums.

Recognizing the Symptoms of an Abscessed Tooth

Identifying an abscessed tooth early is essential for prompt treatment and prevention of complications. The primary symptom is often a throbbing pain near the affected tooth or in the gums. This pain typically develops suddenly and intensifies over time. Other symptoms to watch for include:

• Pain radiating to the ear, jaw, or neck
• Increased pain when lying down or chewing
• Facial redness and swelling
• Swollen, red gums
• Tooth sensitivity
• Discolored or loose teeth
• Bad breath or a foul taste in the mouth
• Tender or swollen lymph nodes in the neck or under the jaw
• Fever

In some cases, an abscess may rupture, leading to sudden pain relief and a noticeable bad taste as the pus drains. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek dental care promptly.

Can an abscessed tooth heal on its own?

An abscessed tooth will not heal on its own. Without professional treatment, the infection can spread to other parts of the body, potentially leading to serious complications. Always consult a dentist if you suspect you have a dental abscess.

The Root Causes of Dental Abscesses

Dental abscesses form when bacteria enter the teeth or gums, but the specific cause depends on the type of abscess:

1. Periapical abscesses: These often result from untreated cavities. Bacteria enter the tooth’s pulp (the soft inner part containing nerves and blood vessels) through the cavity.
2. Periodontal abscesses: Gum disease is the primary cause, but injuries can also lead to this type of abscess.
3. Gingival abscesses: These typically occur when a foreign object, such as a popcorn hull or toothbrush bristle, becomes lodged in the gums.

Poor oral hygiene, a diet high in sugar, and neglecting regular dental check-ups can increase the risk of developing dental abscesses. Understanding these causes is key to prevention and maintaining good oral health.

How quickly can a dental abscess develop?

A dental abscess can develop relatively quickly, sometimes within a matter of days after an infection takes hold. The speed of development depends on factors such as the type of bacteria involved, the individual’s immune response, and the location of the infection. This rapid progression underscores the importance of prompt dental care at the first sign of tooth pain or oral discomfort.

Effective Treatment Options for Abscessed Teeth

Treatment for an abscessed tooth focuses on eliminating the infection and alleviating pain. The approach varies based on the type and severity of the abscess. Common treatment options include:

• Draining the abscess: The dentist makes a small incision to drain the pus and cleans the area with saline solution.
• Root canal procedure: This involves drilling into the affected tooth to drain the abscess and remove infected pulp.
• Tooth extraction: In severe cases where the tooth cannot be saved, extraction may be necessary.
• Antibiotics: Prescribed to help fight the infection, especially if it has spread beyond the abscess site.

After treatment, pain relief is often rapid, but complete healing may take days or weeks. Follow-up appointments are crucial to ensure the infection has been fully resolved and to prevent recurrence.

What is the most effective antibiotic for a tooth abscess?

The most effective antibiotic for a tooth abscess depends on the specific bacteria causing the infection. Commonly prescribed antibiotics include amoxicillin, penicillin, metronidazole, or a combination of these. However, the choice of antibiotic should always be determined by a dental professional based on the individual case and any potential allergies or sensitivities.

Preventing Dental Abscesses: Essential Oral Care Practices

Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to dental abscesses. Implementing good oral hygiene practices and maintaining regular dental check-ups can significantly reduce the risk of developing abscesses. Key preventive measures include:

• Brushing teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Flossing at least once a day
• Using an antiseptic mouthwash
• Limiting sugary foods and drinks
• Avoiding tobacco products
• Scheduling regular dental check-ups and cleanings
• Addressing dental issues promptly

By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing dental abscesses and maintain overall oral health.

How often should you have dental check-ups to prevent abscesses?

For most people, dental check-ups should be scheduled every six months. However, individuals with a higher risk of oral health problems may need more frequent visits, possibly every three to four months. Your dentist can recommend the optimal frequency based on your specific oral health needs and risk factors.

Complications of Untreated Dental Abscesses

Leaving a dental abscess untreated can lead to severe complications that extend beyond oral health. Potential complications include:

• Spread of infection to surrounding tissues and bones
• Formation of a fistula, or a tunnel through the bone or skin to drain the abscess
• Sepsis, a life-threatening systemic infection
• Ludwig’s angina, a serious infection of the floor of the mouth
• Brain abscess
• Endocarditis, an infection of the heart’s inner lining

These complications highlight the importance of seeking prompt treatment for dental abscesses. Even if pain subsides, the underlying infection may continue to spread, potentially leading to these serious health issues.

How long can a tooth abscess go untreated before it becomes dangerous?

There’s no safe period for leaving a tooth abscess untreated. The infection can spread rapidly, potentially becoming life-threatening within weeks or even days in severe cases. It’s crucial to seek dental care as soon as you suspect an abscess, regardless of the level of pain or discomfort.

Home Remedies to Manage Abscess Pain While Awaiting Treatment

While professional treatment is essential for resolving a dental abscess, there are some home remedies that can help manage pain and discomfort while awaiting dental care:

• Saltwater rinses: Gently swish warm salt water in your mouth to help draw out pus and reduce swelling.
• Cold compresses: Apply a cold pack to the outside of your cheek to reduce pain and swelling.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain.
• Avoiding hot or cold foods: Stick to lukewarm foods and drinks to minimize tooth sensitivity.
• Elevating your head: When lying down, use pillows to keep your head elevated, which can help reduce pain.

It’s important to note that these remedies are temporary measures and do not replace professional dental treatment. Always consult with a dentist before trying any home remedies, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

Are there any natural antibiotics effective against tooth infections?

While some natural substances like garlic, oregano oil, and tea tree oil have antibacterial properties, they are not substitutes for professional dental treatment and prescribed antibiotics. These natural remedies may offer some relief but are not strong enough to effectively treat a dental abscess. Always consult with a dental professional for proper treatment of tooth infections.

The Role of Diet in Dental Abscess Prevention and Oral Health

Diet plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health and preventing dental abscesses. Certain foods can promote tooth decay and gum disease, increasing the risk of abscesses, while others can help protect your teeth and gums. Consider the following dietary guidelines for better oral health:

• Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks
• Increase consumption of fiber-rich fruits and vegetables
• Choose calcium-rich foods to strengthen teeth
• Incorporate vitamin C-rich foods for gum health
• Drink plenty of water to maintain saliva production
• Consider probiotics for oral microbiome balance

Remember, a balanced diet not only benefits your overall health but also plays a significant role in maintaining strong teeth and healthy gums, reducing the risk of dental abscesses and other oral health issues.

Which foods are best for maintaining oral health and preventing abscesses?

Foods that promote oral health and help prevent abscesses include:
– Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots, which stimulate saliva production
– Dairy products rich in calcium and phosphates, such as cheese and yogurt
– Green tea, which contains compounds that can reduce bacteria and inflammation
– Foods high in vitamin C, like citrus fruits and bell peppers, for gum health
– Nuts and seeds, which provide minerals beneficial for tooth strength
Incorporating these foods into your diet, along with good oral hygiene practices, can significantly contribute to preventing dental abscesses and maintaining overall oral health.

Types, Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and Pictures

Abscessed Tooth: Types, Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and Pictures

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Medically reviewed by Christine Frank, DDS — By Adrienne Santos-Longhurst — Updated on February 14, 2023

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An abscessed tooth can cause throbbing pain. But treatment may reduce your symptoms in a few days. Not treating an abscessed tooth can lead to potentially severe complications.

An abscessed tooth is a pocket of pus that can form in different parts of a tooth as a result of a bacterial infection. It’s sometimes called a dental abscess. An abscessed tooth causes moderate to severe pain that can sometimes radiate to your ear or neck.

Left untreated, an abscessed tooth can turn into a serious, life-threatening condition. Read on to learn more about the different types and how to recognize them.

The different types of dental abscesses depend on location.

The three most common types are:

• Periapical abscess. This is an abscess at the tip of a tooth’s root.
• Periodontal abscess. This is an abscess on the gum next to the root of a tooth. It might also spread to the surrounding tissue and bone.
• Gingival abscess. This is an abscess on the gums.

The main symptom of an abscessed tooth is throbbing pain near a tooth or in your gums. The pain usually comes on suddenly and gets worse over time.

Other symptoms include:

• pain that radiates to your ear, jaw, or neck
• pain that gets worse when you lie down
• pain when chewing or biting
• facial redness and swelling
• swollen, red gums
• tooth sensitivity
• discolored or loose teeth
• bad breath
• foul taste in your mouth
• tender or swollen lymph nodes in your neck or under your jaw
• fever

If an abscess ruptures, you’ll feel almost immediate pain relief. You might also notice a sudden bad taste in your mouth as the pus drains out.

Bacteria getting into your teeth or gums leads to a dental abscess. However, the way this happens depends on the type of abscess:

• Periapical abscess. Bacteria enter the pulp within your teeth, usually through a cavity. Pulp refers to the soft, inner part of your tooth. This is made up of nerves, connective tissue, and blood vessels.
• Periodontal abscess. Gum disease usually causes this type, but it can also be the result of an injury.
• Gingival abscess. A foreign body, such as a popcorn hull or toothbrush bristle, gets embedded in your gums.

Treatment for an abscessed tooth focuses on clearing up the infection and relieving pain. Depending on your symptoms, your dentist might start with a dental X-ray. This will help them see whether the infection has spread to other areas.

Depending on the type and severity of your abscess, treatment options include:

• Draining the abscess. Your dentist will make a small cut in the abscess to drain the pus. They’ll follow up by cleaning the area with a saline solution.
• A root canal procedure. A root canal involves drilling into the affected tooth to drain the abscess and remove any infected pulp. Next, your dentist will fill and seal the pulp chamber, which holds pulp, and the root canal. They may also cap your tooth with a crown to strengthen it. A crown procedure is usually done during a separate appointment.
• Tooth extraction. If your tooth is too damaged, your dentist might remove it before draining the abscess. Your dentist may pull the tooth if it can’t be saved and then drain the abscess.
• Antibiotics. If the infection has spread beyond the abscessed area or you have a weakened immune system, your dentist might prescribe oral antibiotics to help clear the infection.
• Removal of foreign object. If your abscess is caused by a foreign object in your gums, your dentist will remove it. They’ll finish up by cleaning the area with a saline solution.

If you can’t get in to see your dentist right away, you can take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drug, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) to help with the pain. Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water may also help.

You can purchase over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication online.

It’s important to have any abscessed tooth treated by a dentist. Even if it’s already ruptured, you’ll want to have the area examined and cleaned by your doctor to make sure the infection doesn’t spread.

Left untreated, an infection can spread to your jaw and other parts of your head and neck, including your brain. In rare cases, it can even lead to sepsis. This is a life-threatening complication of an infection.

Go to the emergency room if you have an abscessed tooth accompanied by:

• high fever
• facial swelling
• difficulty swallowing
• rapid heart rate
• confusion

These are all signs of a serious infection that needs immediate treatment.

An abscessed tooth should clear up within a few days of treatment. Even if it seems to drain on its own, it’s important to follow up with your dentist to make sure the infection doesn’t spread to another area.

You can reduce your risk of an abscessed tooth by practicing good oral hygiene and having regular dental checkups every six months.

Last medically reviewed on May 25, 2018

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.

• Abscess (toothache). (n.d.).
  mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/a/abscess
• Dental abscess. (2016).
  nhs.uk/conditions/Dental-abscess/#treatments-for-a-dental-abscess
• Mayo Clinic Staff. (2018). Tooth abscess.
  mayoclinic. org/diseases-conditions/tooth-abscess/symptoms-causes/syc-20350901
• Murchison DF. (n.d.). Toothache.
  merckmanuals.com/en-ca/home/mouth-and-dental-disorders/symptoms-of-oral-and-dental-disorders/toothache
• Lang MS, et al. (2018). Dental abscess.
  bestpractice.bmj.com/topics/en-us/1206
• Sepsis and dental health. (2017).
  sepsis.org/sepsis-and/dental-health/

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

Current Version

Feb 14, 2023

Written By

Adrienne Santos-Longhurst

Edited By

Heather Hobbs

May 25, 2018

Medically Reviewed By

Christine Frank, DDS

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Medically reviewed by Christine Frank, DDS — By Adrienne Santos-Longhurst — Updated on February 14, 2023

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11 Home Remedies for Toothache

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A toothache is mild to severe pain in or around your teeth and jaws. It may indicate that you have a tooth or gum concern.

If you have a toothache, it’s important to figure out what’s at the root of your discomfort. From there, you can determine how to best relieve any pain, swelling, or other symptoms.

A regular salt water rinse and cold compress application can typically remedy minor irritation, but more serious toothaches may require a dentist’s intervention.

If your symptoms persist for more than a day or two, see your dentist. They can provide guidance on how to relieve your symptoms and prevent future pain.

You should also talk with your dentist before using any of the following remedies if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any medical condition that may be impacted by herbal ingredients.

Keep reading to learn more.

For many people, a saltwater rinse is an effective first-line treatment. Salt water is a natural disinfectant, and it can help loosen food particles and debris that may be stuck in between your teeth.

Treating a toothache with salt water can also help reduce inflammation and heal any oral wounds.

To use this approach, mix 1/2 teaspoon (tsp) of salt into a glass of warm water and use it as a mouthwash.

A hydrogen peroxide rinse may also help to relieve pain and inflammation. In addition to killing bacteria, hydrogen peroxide can reduce plaque and heal bleeding gums.

Make sure you properly dilute the hydrogen peroxide. To do this, mix 3-percent hydrogen peroxide with equal parts water, and use it as a mouthwash. Don’t swallow it.

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You can use a cold compress to relieve any pain you’re experiencing, especially if any type of trauma has caused your toothache.

When you apply a cold compress, it causes the blood vessels in the area to constrict. This makes pain less severe. The cold can also reduce any swelling and inflammation.

To use this approach, hold a towel-wrapped bag of ice to the affected area for 20 minutes at a time. You can repeat this every few hours.

Peppermint tea bags can be used to numb pain and soothe sensitive gums.

Allow a used tea bag to cool down a little before applying it to the affected area. It should still be slightly warm.

You can also use this method to cool, rather than warm, the area. To do this, put a used tea bag in the freezer for a couple of minutes to chill it and then apply the bag to your tooth. Learn more about the health benefits of peppermint.

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For thousands of years, garlic has been recognized and used for its medicinal properties. It also has antibacterial properties. Not only can it kill harmful bacteria that cause dental plaque, but it can also act as a pain reliever.

To use garlic on a toothache, crush a garlic clove to create a paste and apply it to the affected area. You may wish to add a tiny bit of salt. Alternatively, you can slowly chew a clove of fresh garlic.

Vanilla extract contains alcohol, which can help numb pain. Its proven antioxidant properties also make it an effective healer. Just be sure to use real vanilla rather than imitation vanilla.

To use this remedy, dab a small amount of vanilla extract onto your finger or a cotton ball. Apply it directly to the affected area a few times per day.

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You can do the following remedies at home, but you may need to source the ingredients from your local health food store or online.

Your mouth, teeth, and gums are likely sensitive at this time, so it’s especially important to purchase these ingredients from a reputable manufacturer. This can reduce your risk of potential irritation.

Clove has been used to treat toothaches throughout history. The oil can effectively numb the pain and reduce inflammation. It contains eugenol, which is a natural antiseptic.

To use this approach, dilute clove oil with a carrier oil, like sunflower or jojoba oil. Use a ratio of about 15 drops of clove oil to one ounce of carrier oil, according to the National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy.

Then, dab a small amount of the diluted oil onto a cotton ball and apply it to the affected area a few times a day.

You can also add a drop of clove oil to a small glass of water and make a mouthwash.

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Guava leaves have anti-inflammatory properties that can help heal wounds. They also have antimicrobial activity that can aid in oral care.

To use this remedy, chew on fresh guava leaves or add crushed guava leaves to boiling water to make a mouthwash.

Wheatgrass has countless healing properties, like anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. It contains many nutrients, including a high chlorophyll content, that help to fight bacteria.

You can drink wheatgrass or use it as a mouthwash.

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Thyme also has powerful antibacterial and antioxidant properties that can help to treat toothaches. It can even help fight bacteria that contribute to tooth decay.

To use this, dilute thyme essential oil with a carrier oil, and then apply it to the affected area.

You can also add a drop of the oil to a small glass of water and make a mouthwash.

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The aptly named toothache plant is a flowering plant that grows in tropical and subtropical regions. Its active compound, spilanthol, has anti-inflammatory properties, according to a 2021 review. It also provides a numbing sensation when chewed.

Though this plant is generally considered safe, you shouldn’t use it if:

• you’re allergic to plants in the daisy family
• you drink alcohol
• you use diuretics
• you have prostate cancer
• you’re pregnant

If your toothache is severe or is the result of a more serious medical condition, it’s crucial that you see your dentist so you can treat it properly. Many toothaches will require medical attention. An over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen could help until you see a dentist.

You should also see your dentist if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• fever
• trouble breathing or swallowing
• general pain that lasts more than one or two days
• swelling
• pain when you bite
• abnormally red gums
• foul-tasting discharge, or pus

During your appointment, your dentist will examine your mouth to figure out what’s causing your toothache. They may also take an X-ray.

How your dentist treats your toothache will depend on the cause:

• Dental decay: If a cavity or dental decay is causing your toothache, your dentist will likely remove the decay and put in a filling.
• Filling: When a cavity is removed from your tooth, your dentist will fill the space with a tooth-colored material. If an existing filling is causing you pain, they may replace it with a new filling.
• Abscess: A dental abscess is a tooth infection that can occur if a cavity goes untreated. If you have an abscess, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics, perform a root canal, or extract your tooth.
• Teeth grinding (bruxism): If grinding or clenching your teeth is causing pain, your dentist may recommend a mouthguard.
• Periodontal disease: When plaque buildup leads to gingivitis, it’s possible for you to develop periodontal disease. This gum infection needs professional attention to remove tartar from your teeth and slow disease progression.

You can prevent the likelihood of toothaches occurring by practicing good oral hygiene. Floss at least once daily and brush your teeth for 2 minutes at least twice daily. You can also consider using mouthwash.

Visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings twice a year, too.

Some foods can especially cause plaque buildup, including:

• citrus
• bread
• sour candies
• potato chips
• dried fruits
• carbonated drinks
• alcohol
• ice

Brush and floss after eating these foods to help prevent plaque buildup, or consider limiting them in your diet.

How do you get rid of a toothache at night?

To get rid of a toothache at night, you may alleviate pain by:

• rinsing with fluoride mouthwash
• using a numbing gel
• applying a cold compress

To reduce swelling and prevent blood from pooling in your head, try sleeping with your head elevated. You can also take over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), acetaminophen (Tylenol), or aspirin.

How do you get rid of a toothache in 5 minutes?

You can try to get rid of a toothache in 5 minutes by rinsing with hydrogen peroxide, salt water, or wheatgrass.

Next, you can apply clove oil, vanilla extract, or garlic paste to the affected area.

Finally, apply a cold compress or ice pack. If the pain doesn’t resolve or if it’s severe, talk with your dentist.

How can I get rid of a toothache without medication?

Depending on the cause of your tooth discomfort, it may not always be possible to get rid of a toothache without medication.

However, you can try cleaning your mouth by brushing, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash, salt water, or hydrogen peroxide and seeing whether that brings some relief.

You can also use a cold compress, oil pull, and chew on fresh garlic. If your pain is severe or long lasting, though, make sure to visit your dentist.

A toothache can cause significant discomfort. While it’s important to see a dentist to figure out the root cause of your pain, there are some home remedies, like cold compresses and saltwater rinses, that may help you in the meantime.

Read this article in Spanish.

how to open an abscess at home in Moscow, prices for surgeon services

An abscess is an accumulation of pus in tissues or organs in a capsule, fenced off by a shell from healthy areas. This is a disease after infection in human organs or tissues. As a result, tissue destruction occurs in the area of ​​​​the infection penetration site, which leads to the formation of a purulent cavity. Depending on the localization of the purulent process, the following types are distinguished: soft tissues, oral cavity, pharyngeal, paratonsillar, Douglas space, interintestinal, brain, and others. An abscess is usually treated with surgery. In the case of the formation of a superficial formation (in the subcutaneous fat), the specialists of our clinic can painlessly and safely open an abscess at home .

Self-opening of the abscess is dangerous by the spread of infection to healthy tissues, which in especially severe cases can even lead to death. Therefore, it is especially important that such a procedure is carried out by qualified doctors. Contacting our clinic will help save the health, and sometimes the life of the patient.

Features of the operation to open an abscess at home

Our clinic provides services for the opening of an abscess, including at home. Also, in a comfortable home environment, our specialists can perform diagnostics, take material for analysis and advise on the upcoming operation. Opening an abscess at home is carried out to the same high standards as in a hospital. This procedure is especially relevant for patients who find it difficult to move around, children, as well as people who do not want to change home comforts for hospital walls. The operation is performed under local anesthesia as follows.

• First, the surgeon treats the skin around the abscess with iodine. If there is hair, they are shaved off.
• In the area of ​​pus accumulation, a neat skin incision is made with a scalpel, taking into account the adjacent muscles, tendons, vessels and skin folds.
• In order to completely extract the pus in the cavity of the abscess, the walls of the abscess chambers are destroyed. Pus is removed by electric suction.
• After the complete exit of the abscess contents, the cavity is washed with an antiseptic solution and a drain is inserted, which stimulates the outflow of purulent contents.
• A sterile gauze dressing is then applied over the surface.
• The drain is removed approximately two days after the operation.

Until complete healing of the wound, it is necessary to regularly observe the doctor. In our clinic, the abscess opening service includes the management of the patient by a specialist until complete recovery.

Symptoms and causes of superficial abscesses

Symptoms of this abscess are an increase in temperature at the site of inflammation, as well as body temperature up to 40 ° C, soreness, hyperemia and a clear localization of the suppuration zone. This place is surrounded by a sheath formed from connective tissue. Its formation is a protective mechanism of the body to preserve the surrounding healthy tissues. However, under the rapidly increasing pressure inside the abscess, this membrane may collapse. Then part of the pus comes out.

The main cause of an abscess is the penetration of harmful microflora into the body against the background of a weakened immune system, diseases or skin damage (scratches, abrasions, splinters). Basically, the development of the disease is provoked by staphylococci, streptococci, E. coli and other pathogenic microorganisms.

Signs of an abscess are often similar to symptoms of other diseases, so you need to see a doctor in order not to start the disease and prevent it from becoming chronic.

Treatment after abscess surgery

After the operation, the patient is prescribed antibiotics, mainly penicillin. Antibacterial treatment is carried out for 10 days. In addition, antibiotic ointments are used, such as levomekol, levosin and others.

The wound should be treated regularly as follows:

• rinse with disinfectant;
• insert a swab soaked in Vishnevsky ointment or levomekol into the wound cavity, and change it each time during dressing;
• in case of excess granulation, they must be cauterized;
• with difficult overgrowth, a seam should be applied.

To avoid the appearance of such an unpleasant disease as an abscess, it is necessary to immediately treat any inflammation, even the smallest one. It is also necessary to strengthen the immune system, adhere to the rules of hygiene and give up bad habits.

An abscess is a very serious disease that, if left untreated or improperly treated, especially self-treated, can have many serious consequences. If it is difficult for the patient to move around or for some reason he does not want to go to the hospital, you should open the abscess at home . The specialists of our clinic will perform this procedure at home.
comfortable conditions qualitatively, quickly and painlessly.

This article is not medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for consultation with a physician.

Abscess

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Abscess

Skin abscess is a limited purulent-inflammatory disease of soft tissues, a fairly common complication of a surgical hospital. It is a localized infection in the skin that starts as redness, over time the area becomes firmer, eventually the abscess softens and pus forms inside. Pus is a mixture of proteins, white blood cells and other cells whose main task is to isolate the infection. Skin abscesses occur with equal frequency in both men and women. As a rule, the location of abscesses in the neck and head, on the limbs and in the perirectal zone is characteristic of the male sex. The female sex is characterized by axillary, vulvovaginal, and perirectal location.

Causes and mechanisms of skin abscess

Causes and mechanisms of skin abscess.
Like any purulent disease, a skin abscess occurs due to a violation of the integrity of the body’s protective barriers and the penetration of pathogenic agents (bacteria or viruses) into it. Bacteria that cause the skin tissue to melt and form a capsule filled with purulent masses are part of us, but under certain conditions and an increase in their number, they can be activated. A large number of such organisms exist on our mucous membranes: the oral cavity, the nasal cavity, the mucous membrane of the eyes, the genital organs, and some are located in our intestines, both in the thick and thin. It can be quite difficult to identify the causative agent of an abscess, and the effectiveness of treatment sometimes depends on this. The variety of bacteria that cause purulent inflammation is very large, we will consider only those that are most common in surgical practice.

• The vast majority of skin abscesses are caused by Staphylococcus aureus. Recent studies show that Staphylococcus aureus is detected in 27.6% of skin abscess cases, and is almost always sown in pure culture, without accompanying flora. 47.4% are abscesses found in the upper half of the body (abscesses of the face, neck, armpits and chest), the main cause of which was Staphylococcus aureus. Some of the subgroups of staphylococcus aureus are not sensitive to many antibiotics, which makes it difficult to treat.
• Proteus mirabilis is one of many microorganisms that live in the large intestine and are isolated by microscopy of feces. This microorganism is more often the cause of abscesses of the lower half of the body, although it is not a permanent inhabitant of the skin.
• Quite often the cause of skin abscesses is Escherichia coli, this microorganism is part of us and is part of the intestinal flora, but under certain conditions and reduced immunity can cause severe and sometimes fatal diseases.
• Some drugs can cause sterile abscesses that resemble skin cellulitis.
• Some diseases may be complicated by the occurrence of abscesses (pharyngitis, ingrown toenail, paraproctitis, Crohn’s disease, osteomyelitis, orchiepidymitis, amoebiasis, donovanosis, phthyriasis…)

Skin abscess symptoms

How does a skin abscess manifest itself? As mentioned above, skin abscesses can appear anywhere on the body. More often this occurs due to a violation of the integrity of the protective barrier of human skin – the epithelium, with injuries or cuts. Due to the violation of the barrier, conditionally pathogenic flora that lives on human skin begins to penetrate into the sterile conditions of the body and, under favorable conditions, begins to actively multiply. The body tries to direct all its forces to suppress the inflammatory reaction and limits this area from healthy tissue to a shaft of inflammatory cells, and when this barrier is not enough, a capsule appears in which an abscess is formed.

Obstruction of the ducts of the sebaceous and sweat glands can also lead to an abscess. Such abscesses are located mainly in places with a large accumulation of sebaceous and sweat glands – this is the face, neck, armpits and the area around the rectum. Since these glands are at their peak of activity during puberty in adolescents, the greatest number of abscess formation is noted during this period. In the area of ​​the rectum, ingrown hairs very often occur, plus the addition of an infection results in perirectal abscesses. In women, abscesses in the genital area are due to obstruction of the Bartholin glands.

Patients with abscesses usually begin to complain of local pain and swelling in the area of ​​the affected skin, most often noting that the disease began about 3-4 days ago. After some time, usually within 5-6 days, a symptom of fluctuation appears in the affected area – an oscillatory movement of fluid inside the abscess cavity. In most patients, signs of general intoxication may be absent, but sometimes moderate tachycardia may occur, which is usually associated with patient anxiety and pain, as well as with the direct toxic effect of the infection underlying inflammation.

From the external symptoms, dense swelling of the skin around the abscess, cellulitis, due to an inflammatory reaction and congestion, may appear. Fever may appear a little later than the formation of the abscess itself, and not exceed subfebrile numbers. However, with a further increase in temperature, it is safe to say about the generalization of the infection, which is a very important factor that you must definitely inform your doctor.