What are Boils?
A boil is a skin infection that starts in a hair follicle or oil gland. At first, the skin turns red in the area of the infection and a tender lump develops. After four to seven days, the lump starts turning white as pus collects under the skin. If the infection spreads to the deeper tissues of the skin, then it becomes an abscess. The most common places for boil's to appear are on the face, neck, armpits, shoulders, and buttocks. When one forms on the eyelid, it is called a sty. If several boils appear in a group, the condition is more of a serious type infection called a carbuncle. Before boils can heal completely, they must open and drain. Boils typically resolve on their own within two weeks of onset.
Causes of Boils
There is no specific cause for the formation of boils but certain health problems make people more susceptible to skin infections such as boils. Examples are:
Diabetes.
Problems with the immune system.
Poor nutrition.
Poor hygiene.
Exposure to harsh chemicals that irritate the skin.
Symptoms of Boils
The skin around the boil becomes red, painful, and swollen.
More boils may appear around the original one.
Fever develops and the lymph nodes become swollen.
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