Boils under the skin are an infection that can be painful and tender. They are filled with pus and are the result of a hair follicle being inflamed. Boils are called “furuncles” and first appear as a bump. It might look a little red or purple, but they will soon grow, and more pus will fill the area. Common areas boils are found are on the face, thighs, buttocks, armpits, and neck. When there is a cluster of boils in one of these areas it is called a carbuncle.
In most cases, they can be alleviated with at home care, but sometimes infections take a turn and become worse. They’re not to be pinched or squeezed, but some people make this mistake initially not knowing what they have or what to do. A boil can get as big as up to 2 inches or more. The area gets swollen and the pus becomes visible. Then a tip forms at the tip of the bump that eventually will “pop”/rupture and pus will release from it.
A boil is caused by the bacterium called Staphylococcus aureus. The bacterium likes to dwell in the nose and enter through hair follicles or any small entry such as a mosquito bite. This means that anyone can develop a boil no matter how healthy their lifestyle might be. However, some people are at higher risk such as those who have diabetes because they’re unable to fight infections as well as non-diabetics. People with acne and eczema are also at risk because of the tiny entries the bacterium could enter through. Coming into contact with a person who has a staph infection can also put someone at higher risk to get a boil.
Boils are a good example of why we should keep wounds covered. They also remind us not to share razors and personal items like sheets. Staph infections do spread through objects so always wash shared items. Simple hand washing is the greatest defense towards germs spreading.
Using a warm compress is the first measure for treatment. Pressure can be applied but not to intentionally rupture it. Again, DO NOT pinch or squeeze the boil. If the boil is not healing after about 2 weeks, then seeking medical attention is recommended. Natural ways to help suppress the boil are to use a warm compress, apply tea tree oil and/or castor oil, and to use turmeric which helps with inflammation. Other signs the boil might be more serious would be if it causes a fever or continues to get bigger.
Our skin is out protective layer that can be vulnerable to many conditions. Our immunity and lifestyle are determinates of how our skin can respond and react to what or who it encounters. When protection is threatened, pay attention to your skin and treat any possible signs of damage or illness appropriately and safely.
Interventions for bacterial folliculitis and boils (furuncles and carbuncles) – PMC
Overview: Boils and carbuncles – InformedHealth.org – NCBI Bookshelf
(PDF) Review on Ulcers, Boils with their Bacterial and Fungal Causes
