What Is An Abscess And How Can It Be Treated?

• What is an abscess and how can it be treated? 

An abscess is a mass surrounded by a pink or red colored area. 

The middle of the abscess is normally filled with pus or debris.  

The most common location for an abscess is under the armpit. 

It can also form from inflammation around a hair follicle. 

• Causes:

They are caused by a build-up of oils underneath the skin. 

If germs get into hair follicles or pores it could turn into an infection which would then form an abscess. 

• Symptoms:

A mass forms which is usually warm and tender to touch. 

The infection can spread to underneath the skin into the tissue or even bloodstream. 

If it spreads, it can cause fever and or make the person ill. 

• Treatment: 

If the abscess is small, you can apply a warm compress to it daily to help reduce the size. 

It is not recommended to puncture or drain the abscess because it could cause a larger infection. 

If it gets large enough, a doctor can numb the area and remove the abscess.