Abscess Drainage

What is a Skin Abscess?

A skin abscess is a raised skin or bump that is filled with pus and swollen. It is generally caused by a bacterial infection. Abscess drainage is used to clear a skin abscess.

However, an abscess is the body’s defense mechanism to heal from an infection. Abscesses are developed after fungi, bacteria or other germs invade the body–generally through a broken skin like a cut– and lead to an infection. The attack of foreign bodies triggered the immune system which then sends out white blood cells to deal with an infection. These white blood cells coupled with other debris collect in the wound and form pus. When pus builds up and doesn’t drain out, the area of the skin turns into a painful abscess.

Kids are more vulnerable to abscesses as they are less likely to keep their cuts and wounds clean, making them prone to infections. Foreign objects such as sand or fibers can also get into a wound, causing abscesses. Therefore, it is important to encourage your kids to practice good hygiene as well as keep their wounds dry, clean, and covered with a bandage.

Understanding the Signs and Symptoms of Abscesses

These are the skin bumps that appear red, swollen, and feel warm to the touch. They might leak pus. They are located on the top of the skin, in a tooth, under the skin, or even deep inside the body. If it appears on the top of the skin, it might look like a pimple or unhealed wound. If it happens underneath the skin, it might lead to a swollen bump. Generally, it causes fever and chills.

How are Abscess Treated?

While an abscess can be treated at home using a warm compress, sometimes you need to see a doctor if it doesn’t heal or becomes more painful, red, and swollen. A doctor will assess the abscess to check if it needs to be drained.

If it requires, they will make a small cut in the abscess so that the pus can drain out. The area is numbed by giving a patient medicine. Then, the fluid is absorbed using gauze.