Boils – Overview
A boil, also known as a furuncle, is a painful, pus-filled bump that develops under the skin when a hair follicle or oil gland becomes infected. Boils are caused by bacteria — most commonly Staphylococcus aureus — and often appear on areas of the body prone to sweating, friction, or hair growth, such as the neck, armpits, thighs, buttocks, or face.
Boils typically start as red, tender lumps, and within a few days, they become larger, more painful, and filled with pus. Once the boil bursts and drains, it usually begins to heal, but in some cases, it may require medical treatment.
In South Africa, they are common, especially in warmer climates and overcrowded living conditions, where skin hygiene and access to healthcare may be limited. They can affect people of any age but are more frequent in teens and adults.
Signs and symptoms of boils:
- A red, swollen lump under the skin
- Tenderness or throbbing pain
- A white or yellow centre as the boil fills with pus
- Fever and swollen lymph nodes in severe cases
- Scarring after healing (especially if picked or squeezed)
Common sites for boils:
- Face and neck
- Back and shoulders
- Buttocks and thighs
- Groin and armpits
- Around the anus or genitals
When two or more of them, they can create a larger, connected cluster known as a carbuncle, which may cause deeper skin infections and systemic symptoms.
Although most boils resolve on their own, complications may include:
- Spread of infection to other skin areas or the bloodstream
- Abscess formation
- Permanent scarring
- Recurrent in people with underlying health conditions
Boils are different from pimples or cysts, as they’re caused by infection and may require drainage or antibiotics.
👉 [Next: Causes and Risk Factors of Boils]
