DEFINITION

An abscess is a collection of pus under the skin or in almost any bodily organ.

DESCRIPTION

When bacteria invade tissues, they destroy normal cells, causing a build-up of dead cells and waste products (pus). An abscess forms if the body can't remove them through the blood circulation in the area.

Bacteria may spread to the location of the abscess from the blood, lymphatic system or by local bacterial migration, when normal barriers to infection are damaged or destroyed. The body may form an abscess to prevent further spread of infection, by restricting it to one area.

CAUSE

Bacterial infection (most common cause)
Poor immunity
Foreign bodies
Blockages to the normal drainage of the urinary, biliary or respiratory tracts
Poor blood circulation
Physical trauma
Fungus (this is rare).

SYMPTOMS

Heat, swelling, tenderness and redness over the affected area
Fever and a general feeling of being unwell
Abscesses in internal organs may cause loss of appetite, weight loss, and fatigue. There may also be problems with the function of the affected organ.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

As with all conditions, see your Doctor for the diagnosis and treatment of an abscess. Small abscesses (such as minor skin abscesses) may clear without treatment by coming to a head and discharging the pus to the surface. Larger abscesses will need to be drained by your doctor and antibiotics will usually be needed for the treatment of deep-seated abscesses.
To prevent the abscess from reforming, a wick may need to be inserted, which allows newly formed pus to drain to the surface as the abscess heals from the inside out. The wick is changed regularly and the abscess cavity slowly reduces in size until fully healed. If the surface of the abscess closes over before healing has taken place, then the abscess can reform.

PHARMACIST'S ADVICE

Ask your Pharmacist for advice.

1) A hot compress may help to bring a small abscess under the skin to a head.
2) Antibiotics may also be prescribed by your Doctor. Your Pharmacist can answer your questions regarding your medication.
3) As with any wound, keep the area as clean and sterile as possible. A variety of wound dressings are available. Ask your Pharmacist for advice.

DIET HINTS

A nutritious diet is an essential ingredient for a healthy immune system. See the Wound Healing Diet for more information, and ask your doctor or dietitian for advice.

SUPPLEMENTS AND HERBS

- Acidophilus will help recolonise the bowel with good bacteria.
- A multi-vitamin and mineral supplement may improve poor immune function, especially in the elderly,
- Herbs such as echinacea, garlic and burdock have been used traditionally for abscesses and may help improve poor immune function
- Vitamin C, vitamin E and zinc are thought to help improve immune function

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