Treatment of carbuncles and boils

A carbuncle is a single large boil or a group of boils that come together to form one large boil. A boil is a smaller-sized boil, and like carbuncles, they are caused by a bacterial infection of the skin, most commonly the S. aureus bacterium.

The typical symptoms that indicate a carbuncle or a boil are the projection of pus-filled bumps below the surface of the skin that tend to increase in size. Carbuncles and boils usually appear on their own after running their course, but in case they don’t, special medical treatment would be needed to cure the infection and prevent it from spreading to other areas. For example, if there is a repeated appearance of boils or if they become very large, you will surely need special medical attention.

In some extreme cases, the bacteria in a carbuncle or boil can enter the body’s bloodstream and, as a result, spread quickly and easily to other parts and areas of the body. This is a very serious case (blood poisoning) and can be fatal for the affected person. Symptoms such as tiredness and increased heartbeat are typical of blood poisoning. Blood poisoning is a serious condition and must be treated as soon as possible.

In the treatment of staph infections, a warm soak is usually gently pressed against the infected region to increase blood circulation to that region and expose the heat to the bacteria. Once the carbuncle or boil runs its course and finally breaks open, one should carefully wash the area with good soap and clean warm water to clean the area.

Certain simple but important measures, such as keeping your hands clean, washing the wound regularly, and not sharing clothing with other family members in the house, can help prevent boils such as carbuncles and boils.