Summary about Disease
A boil is a painful, pus-filled bump that forms under the skin when bacteria infect and inflame one or more hair follicles. It starts as a red, tender area and eventually becomes firm and hard. Over time, the center of the boil fills with pus, forming a white or yellow head. Boils are also known as furuncles. A group of boils clustered together is called a carbuncle.
Symptoms
A painful, red, raised bump on the skin
Increasing size of the bump over several days
Pus-filled center with a white or yellow tip
Warmth and tenderness around the boil
Possible fever, fatigue, or swollen lymph nodes (especially with carbuncles)
Itching before the boil appears
Causes
Bacterial infection, usually Staphylococcus aureus* (staph)
Poor hygiene
Skin injuries (cuts, scrapes)
Weakened immune system
Underlying skin conditions (eczema, acne)
Close contact with someone who has a staph infection
Medicine Used
Over-the-counter: Antibacterial soaps, warm compresses.
Prescription: Topical or oral antibiotics (e.g., dicloxacillin, cephalexin, clindamycin) if the infection is severe or spreading. Pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen, acetaminophen) for discomfort.
Medical Procedures: Incision and drainage by a healthcare professional.
Is Communicable
Yes, boils are communicable. The bacteria responsible (usually Staphylococcus aureus) can spread through direct skin-to-skin contact or by sharing contaminated items like towels, razors, or clothing.
Precautions
Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
Avoid sharing personal items (towels, razors, clothing).
Keep the boil covered with a clean bandage.
Do not squeeze or pick at the boil.
Clean and disinfect surfaces that may have come into contact with the boil's drainage.
If you have recurring boils, consider using antibacterial soap regularly.
How long does an outbreak last?
An individual boil typically lasts from 1 to 3 weeks. The boil will start small, grow in size, fill with pus, and then eventually rupture and drain. With proper care and hygiene, the area should heal within a few weeks after drainage. A carbuncle can take longer to heal.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually made based on a physical examination. A doctor may take a sample of the pus for lab testing to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection, especially if antibiotics are not effective or the infection is severe.
Timeline of Symptoms
Day 1-3: Red, tender bump appears.
Day 4-7: Bump grows larger and firmer.
Day 5-14: Pus accumulates, forming a white or yellow head.
Day 7-21: Boil ruptures and drains (may require medical intervention).
Post-rupture: Healing period; inflammation subsides.
Important Considerations
Do not attempt to drain a boil yourself, as this can lead to further infection.
Seek medical attention if the boil is large, painful, located on the face or spine, accompanied by fever or swollen lymph nodes, or does not improve with home care.
People with diabetes or weakened immune systems are more prone to developing boils and should seek prompt medical treatment.
Recurrent boils may indicate an underlying condition that needs to be addressed.