Treat boils: These are the options

Treating boils is necessary if the painful inflammation doesn't go away on its own. We tell you why you shouldn't express a boil yourself and what treatment options are available.

Treat boils: How to support the healing process

A boil is a purulent inflammation of the hair follicle and can develop on all hairy areas of the body. Usually, a purulent pimple appears at first, which grows quickly. The area hurts and turns red.

• Never push or pierce the boil yourself. There is a risk of blood poisoning because bacteria can enter the bloodstream from the pus.
• First aid is provided by an iodine-containing ointment for disinfectant wound treatment. Apply this to the affected area of ​​the skin according to the package insert.
• A marigold tincture also works against inflammation.
• Red light therapy additionally supports the healing process.

Boils: When to see a doctor

If the inflammation is particularly painful, if you do not feel any improvement after a few days, or if the boil returns frequently, see a doctor.

• Depending on the severity of the inflammation, the doctor will arrange treatment with traction ointment or antibiotics.
• In the case of painful boils on the face, hospitalization may be an option. Here antibiotics are administered intravenously, which promotes faster healing.
• A doctor can also check whether the inflammation is based on other diseases, such as diabetes or chronic infections.