Dealing with an abscess or boil can be painful and uncomfortable, but prompt and effective treatment is available in Rolling Meadows and Arlington Heights at NewMed Immediate Care. Our experienced medical team provides professional incision and drainage procedures to alleviate pain and prevent further complications.
Understanding Abscesses and Boils
An abscess is a collection of pus that has built up within the tissue of the body, typically caused by a bacterial infection. Boils, or furuncles, are a type of abscess that commonly develops on areas of the body where there is hair and friction, such as the neck, face, thighs, and buttocks. These infections are usually the result of bacteria entering the skin through hair follicles or small cuts.
Symptoms of Abscesses and Boils
The common signs of an abscess or boil include:
- Swollen, red, and painful area on the skin
- Increase in size over time
- A “point” or “head” may develop, indicating that the abscess is ready for drainage
- Discharge of pus when the abscess or boil bursts
- Fever may occur if the infection is severe
Incision and Drainage Procedure
The most effective treatment for an abscess or boil is incision and drainage (I&D), a simple procedure performed under local anesthesia to relieve pain and initiate healing. Here’s what you can expect during an I&D procedure:
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is applied to numb the area around the abscess or boil.
- Incision: A small cut is made on the abscess or boil to allow the pus to escape.
- Drainage: The area is gently pressed to expel additional pus. This step is crucial to relieve pressure and reduce pain.
- Cleaning: The wound is cleaned with a saline solution to remove any remaining debris and pus.
- Packing: Sometimes, the cavity of the abscess may be packed with sterile material to keep it open and allow it to drain fully as it heals.
- Dressing and Care: A sterile dressing is applied, and care instructions are provided to ensure proper healing.
Post-Procedure Care
After the procedure, it is important to keep the area clean and covered. You may need to change the dressing regularly. Pain relief medication and antibiotics might be prescribed to help control pain and prevent further infection.
When to Seek Medical Attention
You should seek medical attention for an abscess or boil when:
- It becomes increasingly painful or large
- It does not drain on its own or keeps recurring
- You have a fever or other signs of systemic infection
- The infection is on your face or spine
Choose NewMed Immediate Care for Abscess Treatment
If you’re experiencing symptoms of an abscess or boil, do not wait for the condition to worsen. Visit NewMed Immediate Care in Rolling Meadows or Arlington Heights for expert care. Our clinic is equipped to handle urgent skin infections efficiently, helping you return to comfort as quickly as possible.