Abscess
Abscesses of the skin are usually red, warm, swollen, and painful. Hot
compresses often can be used to bring the abscesses to a head so that
they open and drain.
Abscess is a collection of pus in any infected part of the body.
Abscesses occur most commonly in the skin. They also may form around the
appendix as a complication of appendicitis, or around a tooth. Perhaps
the most common types of abscesses are pimples and boils.
Abcesses occur when bacteria infect body tissue. Blood flow to the area
increases to fight the infection, and pus forms. Blood vessels expand to
make room for the increased fluid, and the infected area swells.
Many abscesses open and drain naturally or with the application of hot
compresses. Some have to be opened by a doctor. Some subside and do not
have to be opened. Do not squeeze abscesses, because bacteria can get
into the bloodstream and cause infections elsewhere.
Keeping all parts of the body clean helps to prevent infections that can
cause abscesses. Antibiotics may clear up an infection, but should be
used only as a doctor directs, [t.m.h.]
See also Acne; Boil
