A boil

 

A boil (medical term: furuncle) is a painful, pus-filled lump under the skin caused by a bacterial infection.

It usually starts in a hair follicle or oil gland.

Most boils are caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria.

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🦠 What’s Actually Happening?

1. Bacteria enter through a tiny break in the skin

2. Infection develops deep in a hair follicle

3. The body sends white blood cells to fight it

4. Pus forms (dead bacteria + immune cells + tissue debris)

5. A swollen, tender lump develops

Over several days, it may form a white or yellow center and eventually drain.

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⚠️ Common Symptoms

• Red, painful lump

• Swelling

• Warmth over the area

• Pus or drainage

• Fever (in more serious cases)

Boils most often appear on:

• Neck

• Face

• Armpits

• Buttocks

• Thighs

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🚨 When It’s More Serious

Seek medical care if:

• It’s larger than 2 inches

• Severe pain

• Fever

• Spreading redness

• Multiple boils (carbuncle)

• It doesn’t improve after a week

• You have diabetes or a weakened immune system

A cluster of connected boils is called a carbuncle — this usually needs medical treatment.

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🛑 What NOT To Do

• ❌ Do NOT squeeze or pop it

• ❌ Do NOT puncture it yourself

That can push infection deeper or spread bacteria.

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💊 Treatment

Mild boils:

• Warm compress 3–4 times daily

• Keep area clean

• Cover if draining

More serious cases:

• Doctor may drain it safely

• Antibiotics (if needed)

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⚡ Bottom Line

Boils are common bacterial skin infections.
Most clear with proper care — but worsening pain, fever, or spreading redness means it’s time to see a doctor.