FURUNCLE (BOIL) OR CARBUNCLE



Serving Hamilton, Stoney Creek, Grimsby and surrounding areas.


Furuncle (Boil):

  • Is an infection around a hair follicle.
  • Usually appears as a red, tender, painful lump which may or may not drain pus.
  • If it drains pus through a single opening it is called a furuncle.
  • If it is much larger and drains through two or more openings it is called a carbuncle.
  • Is caused by the blockage of a hair follicle and the overgrowth of the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus.

Treatment:

  • Warm compresses may help the boil to break and drain.
  • Draining the pus from inside the boil will help it to heal more quickly.
  • Antibiotic creams may be used.
  • If the skin around the boil looks infected, antibiotic pills are used.