Boils

Boils, also known as furuncles, are painful, red, pus-filled bumps on the skin caused by an infection of a hair follicle. They often start out as a small, tender bump and gradually become larger and more painful as the infection spreads. Boils can occur anywhere on the body, but are most commonly found on the face, neck, armpits, buttocks, and thighs.

Boils are typically caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, which can enter the body through a cut or other opening in the skin. Other risk factors for developing boils include poor hygiene, diabetes, a weakened immune system, and exposure to chemicals or irritants.

The treatment for boils usually involves applying warm compresses to the affected area to help bring the boil to a head and encourage drainage. In some cases, antibiotics may be necessary to treat the infection. It is important not to try to pop or squeeze a boil, as this can spread the infection and make the condition worse.

If a boil is large, painful, or does not go away on its own, it may need to be drained by a healthcare professional. Recurrent or multiple boils may require further evaluation and treatment to determine the underlying cause.

Prevention measures include practicing good hygiene, keeping cuts and wounds clean and covered, avoiding close contact with people who have boils, and not sharing personal items such as towels or razors.