Abscesses are swollen areas filled with pus. They may form internally or externally as a result of some infectious germ that infiltrates an open wound. Treating an abscess should be performed by a medical doctor, as they often require antibiotics or similar medication designed to fight off pathogens the immune system is unable to dispose of on its own. Here’s a look at the symptoms of an abscess.
External Abscesses
One of the easiest ways to tell if you have an external abscess is simply by looking at it. Abscesses are large, swollen areas. They may start out as a simple cut or prick of the skin. When bacteria gets into the wound, the immune system sends in white blood cells to weed out the infection. In turn, this causes swelling and inflammation. This also kills off surrounding tissue, creating a sort of hollow in the skin. Here, pus begins to form, filling up the affected area. Pus is composed of the white blood cells, the bacteria, and the resulting dead skin cells. It may be white, yellow, or even a greenish color.
As the body continues to send white blood cells, more and more tissue dies, and more and more pus builds up. The abscess may continue to grow larger. It can become tender or painful to touch. The area may be warmer than the skin surrounding it. Ultimately, it will probably look like a very large pimple -- more akin to a boil -- and may even develop a white “head” on the top of. It is important, however, to refrain from poking or popping an abscess, as this can make the infection worse.
Externally, abscesses form most commonly on areas prone to injury or areas that tend to come into contact with a lot of bacteria or get very sweaty. The most common areas for cutaneous abscesses to form include the mouth (gums and teeth), buttocks, hands or wrists, feet, armpits, groin, and along the outside of the abdomen. Fever or chills may accompany a cutaneous abscess.
Internal Abscesses
Internal abscesses are also a result of infection getting into open wounds. Internal abscesses form on organs, or in the spaces between them, in the abdominal area. Wounds in the abdominal area can cause abscesses in ultimately the same way as a cutaneous abscess may form. Incisions caused by surgical procedures that are not taken care of and properly cleaned can also lead to an abscess. Infection of major organs that in some way spreads (such as a burst appendix) can also cause an abscess.
Internal abscesses can be much more symptomatic than external abscesses, particularly as they can form on such major organs. In addition to the tenderness and swelling that occurs with an abscess, an internal abscess may lead to flu-like symptoms. Gastrointestinal upset, such as diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and constipation, may all result from an internal abscess. Other signs of an internal abscess include fever, sweating, chills, fatigue, unintended weight loss, and poor appetite. If you suspect you have an abscess, talk to your doctor as soon as possible.
