Skin Abscess: Care Instructions

Overview

A skin abscess is a bacterial infection that forms a pocket of pus. A boil is a kind of skin abscess. The doctor may have cut an opening in the abscess so that the pus can drain out. You may have gauze in the cut so that the abscess will stay open and keep draining. You may need antibiotics. You will need to follow up with your doctor to make sure the infection has gone away.

The doctor has checked you carefully, but problems can develop later. If you notice any problems or new symptoms, get medical treatment right away.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Apply a warm washcloth or a heating pad set on low 3 or 4 times a day to help the abscess heal. Keep a cloth between the heat source and your skin.
• If your doctor prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.
• Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
  • If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
  • Store your prescription pain medicines where no one else can get to them. When you are done using them, dispose of them quickly and safely. Your local pharmacy or hospital may have a drop-off site.
• Keep your bandage clean and dry. Change the bandage whenever it gets wet or dirty, or at least one time a day.
• If the abscess was packed with gauze, go to all follow-up appointments to have the gauze changed or removed. If the doctor told you to remove the gauze, follow the instructions you were given for how to remove it.

When should you call for help?

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You have symptoms of worsening infection, such as:
  • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
  • Red streaks leading from the area.
  • Pus draining from the area.
  • A fever.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• You do not get better as expected.