Abscess

What is an abscess?

Simply, An abscess is a localized collection of pus in any part of the body that is surrounded by swelling (inflammation). It is the body's white blood cells surrounding an infected area of tissue, and liquifying the intruders. It's your body's way of trying to limit infection to one area. Incision and drainage are the method of treatment for an abscess.

More about incision and drainage: This procedure is the primary treatment used for a boil or abscess. These areas contain infected material that the body has walled off. They will not heal, even if you take antibiotic drugs, until they are drained and allowed to heal from inside. Antibiotic treatment may be needed, however, if the infection is severe. You may also need a tetanus shot if it has been more than 10 years since your last booster.

The infected area is usually numbed with local anesthetic, and then a cut is made over the pus pocket. After the pus drains out, the abscess may be flushed with sterile salt water. A gauze packing may be placed in the abscess cavity to allow the pus to drain over the next 1-2 days; this should be removed by your doctor as recommended. Elevating and resting the affected area will help control pain. Moist heat applied for 30 minutes 2-3 times daily to the infected area may also help relieve pain and swelling.

NOTIFY YOUR DOCTOR right away, return to ZoomCare, or go to the Emergency Department immediately in case of the following: