Boil incision and drainage

A boil is a tender, pus-filled infection around a hair follicle. A clinician may numb the skin with lidocaine local anaesthetic, make a small opening and let the collection drain. The area may need a dressing, packing or review. Do not squeeze or cut a boil yourself.

Keep the dressing clean and follow washing and changing instructions. Wash hands before touching the area and avoid sharing towels, razors or clothing that contacts the wound. Take prescribed medicines as directed and attend review.

Contact a clinician if redness spreads, pain increases, pus continues, the wound smells unusual or fever develops. Seek urgent care for rapidly spreading redness, severe weakness, confusion, red streaks, or a boil near the eye or on the face, as these may signal cellulitis or deeper infection.

Ask how to dress and wash the wound, whether packing is needed, when it should be checked, which signs suggest cellulitis and how to reduce another boil.