Boil

Boil can also refer to a change in phasefrom liquidto gas; see boilingand boiling point. For other meanings, see Boil (disambiguation).

Boil or furuncle is a skin disease caused by the inflammation of hair follicles, thus resulting in the localized accumulation of pusand dead tissues. Individual boils can cluster together and form an interconnected network of boils called carbuncles. In severe cases, boils may develop to form abscesses.

Symptoms

The symptoms of boils are red, pus-filled lumps that are tender, warm, and/or painful. A yellow or white point at the center of the lump can be seen when the boil is ready to drain or discharge pus. In a severe infection, multiple boils may develop and the patient may experience feverand swollen lymph nodes. A recurring boil is called chronic furunculosis.

In some people, itching may develop before the lumps begin to develop. Boils are most often found on the back, underarms, shoulders, face and buttocks.

Causes

Boils are generally caused by an infection of the hair follicles by Staphylococcus aureusor staph, a strain of bacteriathat normally live on the skin surface. It is thought that a tiny cut of the skin allows this bacteria to enter the follicles and cause an infection. This can happen during bathing while using a razor.

People with immune systemdisorders, diabetes, poor hygiene and malnutrition (Vitamin A or E deficiency) are particularly susceptible to getting boils. However they may also occur in healthy, hygienic individuals.

Hidradenitis suppurativacauses frequent boils.

Treatments

Most boils run their course within 4 to 10 days. For most people, self-care by applying a warm compress or soaking the boil in warm water can help alleviate the pain and hasten draining of the pus (colloquially called "bringing the boil to a head"). Once the boil drains, the area should be washed with antibacterial soap and bandaged well.

For reoccuring cases, supplement your diet with Vitamin A and E.

For serious cases, prescription oral and topical antibioticsmay be required.

Prognosis

For most cases, the prognosis is excellent and full recovery is expected.

External links

• InteliHealth - Boils and Carbuncles
• Health In Plain English - Boil or Furuncle
• eMedicine Health - Boils Overview
• MedicineNet.com - Boilsde:Furunkel

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It uses material from the http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boil Wikipedia article Boil.