Understanding Boils

• You develop a fever.
• The skin around the boil turns red or red streaks appear.
• The pain becomes severe.
• The boil does not drain.
• A second boil appears.

If you have a heart murmur or are taking medications that suppress the immune system (e.g., corticosteroids or chemotherapy for cancer) and develop a boil, you may need medical attention.

Boils usually do not require immediate emergency attention. However, if you experience a high temperature, chills, and do not feel well in addition to the infection, it's advisable to visit the hospital's emergency room.

Self-Care at Home

Apply warm compresses and give the boil a warm water bath. This will help bring the pus to the surface and alleviate pain. After a few soakings, the boil typically bursts, usually within five to seven days from its initial appearance. You can create a warm compress by soaking a washcloth in warm water and wringing out the excess moisture.

Once the boil begins to drain and all pus is gone, wash it with antibacterial soap. Apply a bandage and medicinal cream. Continue using warm compresses and washing the affected area two to three times a day until the wound heals. Avoid trying to pop the boil with a needle, as it can worsen the infection.

Follow-up

Whether the boil is drained at home or lanced by a doctor, you'll need to clean the infected area two to three times a day until the wound heals. Apply antibiotic ointment after washing and cover it with a bandage. If the area turns red or appears to be getting infected again, contact your doctor.

Prevention

Take steps to prevent boils by following these guidelines:

• Thoroughly launder clothes, bed linens, and towels of a family member who has boils.
• Clean and treat minor skin wounds.
• Practice good personal hygiene.
• Maintain overall good health.