What does abscess drainage treat?

An abscess is a pocket of infected fluid beneath the skin. Drainage, also called incision and drainage, creates a small opening so the material can leave rather than remain under pressure. It may be used for some Boils, Carbuncles, infected Skin Cysts, or Paronychia around a nail. Cellulitis is a spreading skin infection and usually needs a different treatment plan; it does not become suitable for drainage simply because the skin is red.

A clinician decides whether a lump contains drainable fluid. Some swellings are solid, deep, or caused by another problem. Antibiotics may be considered when infection has spread, symptoms are severe, or a person has factors that increase risk.

The area is cleaned and numbed, often with Lidocaine Local Anaesthetic. A clinician makes a small opening, releases the collection, and cleans the cavity. A dressing may be placed, and you will receive instructions about keeping it clean, changing dressings, and attending follow-up.

Do not squeeze, pierce, or cut the lump yourself. Keep the dressing as advised and wash your hands before touching the area. Take prescribed medicine exactly as directed and use suitable pain relief only if it is safe for you.

Seek urgent assessment for rapidly spreading redness, severe or escalating Painful Skin, fever with shivering, red streaks, confusion, or swelling near the eye. Get prompt review if drainage continues, pain worsens, the wound smells unpleasant, or you feel increasingly unwell. Emergency help is needed for collapse, breathing difficulty, or swelling of the face or throat.

Does this lump contain fluid that can be drained? Will I need a dressing or follow-up visit? Should I take antibiotics, and what changes would mean the infection is spreading?