A boil is a tiny round swelling on the skin filled with pus.

Causes

• Hair follicle infection by a bacteria called staphylococcus aureus
• Cuts in the skin
• Overscratching
• Diabetes
• Immune system disorders
• Poor personal hygiene

Symptoms

• Pink or red elevation in the skin which may gradually increase in size
• Pain and pus in the elevation
• Redness and swelling around the elevation
• Yellow-white tip on the elevation that ruptures and bursts in a few days
• Sometimes, fever

Treatment
Boils usually heal on their own. Following tips can fasten the healing:

• Warm compresses
• Soaking the affected area in warm water
• Keeping the area clean
• Medicate and bandage after the boil drains

In case of severe infection, incision and draining of the boil may be required alongwith antibiotics.

Prevention

• Maintaining personal hygiene
• Keeping cuts and wounds clean
• Avoiding very tight clothes
• Avoiding vigorous scratching