Abscess

What causes an abscess?

An abscess develops when microorganisms like bacteria infect an area of soft tissue. An injury like a cut or abrasion triggers the immune system to send white blood cells to the area. When these cells build up inside the damaged tissue, a pocket can form and fill with pus, a substance made up of fluids and dead tissue.

Abscesses can form nearly anywhere on the body, including the skin, armpits, breasts, and mouth. If left untreated, the abscess can spread infection into the bloodstream and throughout the body, which can have potentially life-threatening consequences.

NewMed Immediate Care offers comprehensive urgent care services for adults and kids with an abscess.

The skilled medical team takes a collaborative approach to identifying the cause of the abscess. They customize a care plan to clear the infection and help damaged tissue heal.

What symptoms can an abscess cause?

A skin abscess typically causes a lump that you can see and feel. Deeper abscesses may not be visible, but you might experience a range of symptoms that indicate the presence of infection, such as:

• High fever
• Chills
• Sweating
• Toothache
• Persistent fatigue
• Abdominal pain
• Changes in appetite

NewMed Immediate Care offers diagnostic services, including blood work and ultrasound imaging, in the office to ensure you get a fast, accurate diagnosis.

Based on the cause of the abscess and its severity, the medical team creates a treatment plan to treat the infection and prevent it from spreading.

How is an abscess treated?

Abscess treatment typically involves a minimally invasive procedure to drain away pus and clean infected tissue.

Your provider uses a needle to extract fluids in small abscesses. Larger abscesses may require incisions. They provide after-care services to ensure your incisions heal fully.

You also need to take antibiotics to clear any infection that remains in the tissue. It’s important that you take all of the medicine as directed by your provider to prevent the infection from spreading or returning.

The medical team also provides preventive resources you can use to reduce your risk for additional abscesses.

Call the NewMed Immediate Care office nearest you to schedule a diagnostic evaluation for symptoms of an abscess, book an appointment online, or visit as a walk-in today.