About this topic
An abscess is a collection of fluid that is infected. This can happen anywhere in your body. If it is on the surface, your skin will be red, raised, and hurt when you touch it. If the collection is deeper in your body, you may not be able to easily tell that you have an abscess. It will need to be drained to: ‚
- Get rid of the infection from the body
- Check the fluid in the wound or area
- Make large areas smaller
What are the causes?
An abscess is caused by germs that enter the body and cause infection. ‚
What can make this more likely to happen?
You are more likely to have an abscess if you: ‚
- Have a skin infection
- Are a diabetic
- Have a weak immune system
- Are overweight
What are the main signs?
You may have an area of skin that is red, raised, and warm to touch. It may be sore when you touch it. You may have a fever. You may not be able to see an area of pus under the skin. ‚
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
Your doctor will ask you questions and do an exam. The doctor may take a sample of the fluid from the abscess to run a test to learn what germ is causing the problem. The doctor may order: ‚
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
You may need to have the abscess drained and fluid removed. Other times, you will need to take antibiotics. You may need to have antibiotics through an IV if you have a serious infection. Surgery may be needed. ‚
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Help with pain and swelling
- Fight an infection
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
You may be able to prevent some abscesses with good hygiene. ‚
Where can I learn more?
Kids Health ‚
http://kidshealth.org/parent/infections/skin/abscess.html ‚
NHS Choices ‚
http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Abscess/Pages/Treatment.aspx ‚
Last Reviewed Date
2015-12-04 ‚
List_set bdysylist
- Dermatologic
- Infectious Disease
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care provider 's advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2016 Wolters Kluwer Clinical Drug Information, Inc. and its affiliates and/or licensors. All rights reserved. ‚