What Is a Boil?

Boils are surely common to everyone. Once in a while, you may hear your neighbor complain about sitting discomforts due to boils. But what exactly is a boil?

Boils  are actually localized infections on the skin that starts as a red and tender area, and then progresses much deeper into the skin. As time passes, it hardens, becomes firm, and the center of the abscess becomes soft and pus-filled. This area is a collection of white blood cells as well as bacterial debris and proteins. This so-called “head” or “eye” of boils is surgically removed through the procedure called incision and drainage.

There are actually several types of boils. One is called furuncle or carbuncle. It is caused by gram positive bacteria known as Staphylococcus aureus, the pathogenic strain of the normal flora of the skin. When a person has furuncles, she may have fever or chills as a result of the infection.

The second type of boils is called cystic acne. It is often caused by clogging of excess sebum in the oil ducts of the skin, causing infection. This is the most common type of boils which affects the deeper layers of the skin.

The third type of boils is called hidradenitis suppurativa. In this case, multiple abscesses form under the armpits and groin. This is caused by local inflammation of the sweat glands. Unfortunately, this type is hard to treat. Antibiotic therapy is combined with an out patient surgery to remove the sweat glands involved, thus stop the inflammation.

The fourth type of boils is called pilonidal cyst. This uniquely occurs in the buttocks, beginning only as minute areas of infection in the site of hair follicles. These areas enlarge as a result of continuous pressure and irritation. They turn into nodules which become firm, and tender. That causes the person to find it hard to sit down. Often, these boils form as a result of prolonged sitting.

Any person can actually acquire boils. Specifically, those with weak immune system develop boils. Those who have diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and other systemic diseases are at a higher risk of contracting these skin infections. Even those who take immunosuppressants like steroids and chemotherapeutic drugs can possible have boils.

Boils are easily treated and can actually be managed at home. What’s important is that you take action at once when you start noticing this skin infection. That way, further infection is prevented and boils can be treated.

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