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Pharmacy Link

GAIN RELIEF FROM BOILS

A boil is an inflamed, pus-filled area of skin— usually a blocked oil gland or hair follicle. The inflammation and pus are a result of a pitched battle between the body’s immune system and staphylococcus bacteria which have invaded instigating the fight. The next thing you know, you have a boil. These “battle scars” are common on the arms, groin, back, and buttocks, and just about anyplace where the skin gets rubbed.

Boils are both unattractive and painful, and they sometimes leave scars. Here’s how you can treat them yourself and get some relief.

1) Apply warm compresses— at the first sign that a boil is developing, begin applying warm compresses over the boil several times a day. Leave the compress on the boil 20 to 30 minutes at a time. This treatment should bring the boil to a head. Continue to apply warm compresses for a few days after the boil opens to help drain the pus.

2) Take a shower instead of a bath— doing this helps to minimize the likelihood that the infection will spread to another area.

3) Keep your hands clean— it is especially important that you wash your hands well before you handle food. That’s because the germs which caused the problem can multiply in warm food and produce toxins that can cause food poisoning.

4) If the boil fails to open, or if you are plagued with recurring boils, consult your doctor.

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