Question 1

can i put ice on a skin abscess on my face?

Accepted Answer

Yes: Not ideal approach.  For a skin abscess, especially on the face to heal, one needs the CD8 immunocytes circulating in the blood stream to identify the bacteria involved, recognize the threshold level of immunogen In the bacterial cell and attack and destroy the bacteria- the healing process. As such one needs warmth which increases the blood supply to the lesion and thus promotes healing.

Question 2

can i exercise with a skin abscess?

Accepted Answer

Yes: If you feel well you can exercise with a skin abscess.  Avoid traumatizing the involved area.

Question 3

how long does it take for a skin abscess to heal?

Accepted Answer

Depends: It depends on the size and depth of the abscess, whether or not there is surrounding cellulitis and on the infection organisms.  With the usual small staphylococcus aureus abscess it will usually heal a few days after the pus has fully drained.

Question 4

are some people more prone to getting skin abscess?

Accepted Answer

Yes: Diabetic conditions or immune disorders can increase risks. Some people have unknown reasons with aggressive cystic acne or hidradenitis causing recurrent infections. Some resistant bacteria can be transmitted in families from one person to another.

Question 5

what is the definition or description of: skin abscess?

Accepted Answer

Pus: Pus collection in the skin.

Question 6

hi i have a skin abscess for a year now. i have it in multiple places. larger than 1/2 inch?

Accepted Answer

You should be: checked for systemic disorders such as diabetes or MRSA infection.  You need a doctor to figure it out for you.

Question 7

my brother says i should get treated because once in a while i get skin abscess? is he right?

Accepted Answer

Only for abscess: When you get an abscess it is important to get it treated.  The only effective treatment is incision and drainage.  Antibiotics are often given but they alone will not eliminate an abscess.  If no abscess or infection is present then no treatment is necessary and there is no evidence that staph can be eradicated from the skin.

Question 8

is skin abscess curable?

Accepted Answer

Yes: Antibiotics, local cleaning with soap and warm water, and sometimes surgical drainage is indicated. Diabetic condition or other immune disorders can make this condition sometimes worse.

Question 9

should i still go to work if i have a skin abscess? i am on antibiotics

Accepted Answer

Yes: You could keep the area covered with a bandage, and wash your hands frequently. Unless you work around very ill people in a healthcare situation, you are at low risk to other people at work or at home.

Question 10

how long does it take for a skin abscess with a hole to drain itself completely?

Accepted Answer

Size matters: It would depend on how big it is and how much surrounding infection is about.  Antibiotics?  Hot soap running water over the area as many times as is convenient will help.

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Doctor answers about:

Skin abscess medication

A member asked:

Can i put ice on a skin abscess on my face?

A member asked:

Can i exercise with a skin abscess?

A member asked:

How long does it take for a skin abscess to heal?

A member asked:

Are some people more prone to getting skin abscess?

A member asked:

What is the definition or description of: skin abscess?

A member asked:

Hi i have a skin abscess for a year now. i have it in multiple places. larger than 1/2 inch?

A member asked:

My brother says i should get treated because once in a while i get skin abscess? is he right?

A member asked:

Is skin abscess curable?

A member asked:

Should i still go to work if i have a skin abscess? i am on antibiotics

A member asked:

How long does it take for a skin abscess with a hole to drain itself completely?

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