Clive Anderson - AT THE DERMATOLOGIST BOILS (OR FURUNCLES) are infections of the skin that start in hair follicles and oil glands. The cause of the infection is usually the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. This localised skin infection starts as a tender, red area in the skin.
After four to seven days, pus starts to collect under the skin. The pus is a collection of bacteria, dead cells and infection-fighting white blood cells. The area becomes softer, larger and more painful. The skin around the boil at this time may also become infected turning red, tender, warm, swollen and painful. Other boils may occur around the original one and, in some cases, a fever develops.
Boils commonly occur on the face, neck, buttocks, armpit and groin. When a boil forms on the eyelid, it is called a stye. If several boils appear at the same time grouped together, it is called a carbuncle. Most persons who have boils are healthy and do observe good hygiene. The germ enters the body through any break in the skins defensive barrier - tiny nicks or cuts in the skin or it can travel down the hair shaft to the follicle. Some health problems that can make a person more likely to have boils are:
Diabetes
Any illness that weakens the immune system
Poor nutrition
Poor hygiene
Exposure to harsh chemicals that irritate the skin
In otherwise healthy persons, the boil will form a white tip (come to a head) and drain within seven to 10 days. Most boils will disappear with simple home treatment only.
Apply warm compresses (usually a warm, wet washcloth) for a few minutes, three to four times daily. This will reduce the pain and draw the pus to the surface. Once it comes to a head, the boil will drain on its own. Do not pop the boil with a needle as this may make the infection worse.
When the boil starts to drain, wash the area with an antibacterial soap. Cover the boil with a clean bandage to protect the skin and absorb the draining pus. Apply an antibacterial ointment or cream daily.
Small boils usually heal without a scar. Larger boils or carbuncles have a greater chance of scarring. If you have a carbuncle or a large boil that does not improve after a week of the treatment described above, if a fever develops or the skin around the boil shows red streaks, see a doctor. Boils that develop on the face, rectum or groin should also be treated by a health professional because of the possibility of systemic spread of the infection. Oral antibiotic treatment and surgical drainage may be necessary.
To prevent boils, carefully wash clothing, bed linen and towels of a person who has boils; clean all minor wounds well and apply a topical antibacterial agent; practise good hygiene - wash your body daily with soap and water; wash hands frequently; do not share towels or washcloths with others; keep a clean handkerchief and do not pick your nose and change underclothes daily and nightclothes regularly. Some studies have indicated that persons with recurrent episodes of boils may benefit from taking 1000mg of vitamin C daily.
Dr. Clive Anderson is a Dermatologist and Venereologist.
