Boils Treatment Colorado Springs & Monument
Boils (also called furuncles) are caused by a bacterial infection deep in hair follicles. This infection causes painful red bumps that can form pustules at the surface of the skin. Large boils can form abscesses, which have an accumulation of pus inside of a cavity that has formed. If this infection spreads around the boil and causes cellulitis, fevers and chills may occur.
Boils are usually caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. Some people are carriers for this type of skin bacteria. Small breaks in the skin or scratches can be a portal of entry for this bacteria into deeper layers of skin. Fingernails commonly transfer the bacteria to the site of infection. Once inoculated, a boil will usually run its course in about 10 days.
Treatment for boils depends on the severity. Antiseptic or antibacterial soap in the shower can often help treat or prevent new skin infections or boils from forming. Diluted bleach baths are also a way to decolonize the skin of the causative bacteria, which might be recommended along with an antibiotic ointment inside the nostrils to help clear away the bacteria. An oral antibiotic might be prescribed to treat an active skin infection, and your dermatologist may lance and drain a boil or abscess if appropriate. If you are interested in boil treatment options in Colorado Springs or Monument, CO, contact Summit Dermatology to set up a consultation with one of our expert dermatologists, who will be able to determine the appropriate course of action.
Hidradenitis Suppurativa Treatment Colorado Springs & Monument
Another condition that can also cause recurring painful sores in the armpits, groin, under the breasts, and in skin folds under the abdomen is hidradenitis suppurativa. Many people think of the lesions caused by this condition as boils, but these boil-like nodules are not primarily caused by a bacterial infection as is the case with furuncles. Pus can accumulate in hidradenitis suppurativa nodules which can lead to scarring that may become disfiguring over time
Hidradenitis suppurativa is a condition of inflammation of the apocrine sweat glands. It often starts at puberty and is most active between the ages of 20-40. Some of the lifestyle factors that contribute include obesity, insulin resistance, and cigarette smoking. This condition may be in association with inflammatory bowel disease or may be a part of a “follicular occlusion triad,” in which other skin conditions may also be present.
Hidradenitis suppurativa treatment should always include weight loss, physical activity, a healthy diet, and smoking cessation. Bacterial decolonization, similar to what is used for boils treatment, can be helpful. Topical or oral antibiotics are often used to manage this condition, sometimes with prolonged courses. Antiandrogen medication may also be used. This can be very difficult to treat, so dermatologists may try treating with a systemic retinoid, immunosuppressant medication, or recommend surgical treatment for localized disease. The biologic medication Humira is FDA approved for the treatment of hidradenitis, and there are other biologics under investigation for the treatment of hidradenitis suppurativa.
If you are in search of treatment for hidradenitis suppurativa or boils (furuncles) contact the board-certified dermatologists at Summit Dermatology in Colorado Springs and Monument, CO. We are ready to help you find the correct course of action for your specific needs.