Boils
How to recognise a boil
A boil usually starts as a tender area – red in colour, on the skin. Eventually the area becomes hard and firm and then becomes tender to the touch. This area then softens in the centre and becomes filled with infection and is extremely painful. This infection is called pus, which is a collection of white blood cells, bacteria and proteins.
The pus then forms a head which can either be opened surgically, or drained. A boil is sometimes called an abscess and can appear anywhere on the body, including the groin area, the pubic area and the genitals.
Testing
Your consultant dermatologist may be able to diagnose a boil simply by looking at it and a sample of the pus may be sent away for testing. Testing may be necessary if you have recurring infection or an infection which is not responding to treatment. Boils are usually caused by bacteria building up, of which there are many kinds but sometimes they become resistant to certain antibiotics and so testing is an effective way of finding which antibiotic would work the best.
Treatment
There are various methods of treatment, incision and drainage being one of them, but you should consult a qualified dermatologist first (never try to treat yourself as this could lead to further problems). Your consultant will discuss your condition with you in details and may request a list of any medication you are currently taking.
Book your appointment now with Sheffield Dermatology on: 07359 578959
