A skin abscess is a build up of pus within and underneath the skin. They are common among people who use needles. Read about how to safely use needles HERE. An abscess can feel warm and painful to the touch and appear as a red raised bump. They form when bacteria is trapped under the skin. They do not always occur at the injection site, so don't pass something off because of its location. If an abscess is untreated, the bacteria can spread into the blood and deeper tissue, which can cause a large number of other health problems. Do not try to cut or squeeze the abscess.
What you can do on your own:
- Use a warm compress
- Keep the area clean
When you should go to a doctor:
- If the abscess is larger than one half inch across
- There are red streaks around the abscess
- The abscess recurs or won't heal with home treatment
