Causes and Risk Factors of Boils
Boils are caused by a bacterial infection, usually by Staphylococcus aureus, which enters the skin through minor cuts, ingrown hairs, or blocked sweat glands. The body responds by sending white blood cells to the area, forming pus and creating an inflamed, painful lump. Read more about the causes and risk factors of boils below.
Common causes include:
- Poor hygiene
- Shaving or friction that irritates hair follicles
- Sweating in hot or humid environments
- Minor skin trauma (cuts, insect bites, scrapes)
Key risk factors:
- Weakened immune system
- People with HIV, diabetes, cancer, or chronic illnesses are more prone to infections.
- In South Africa, where HIV prevalence is high, skin infections like boils are common among immunocompromised patients.
- Diabetes
- High blood sugar affects the body’s ability to fight bacteria, increasing the risk of skin infections and slow healing.
- High blood sugar affects the body’s ability to fight bacteria, increasing the risk of skin infections and slow healing.
- Close contact and poor sanitation
- Boils can spread in crowded homes, schools, prisons, or hostels where personal items are shared, or hygiene is limited.
- Shared towels, razors, or bedding can transfer bacteria.
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Lack of vitamins A, C, E, and zinc weakens the skin’s natural defences.
- Lack of vitamins A, C, E, and zinc weakens the skin’s natural defences.
- Obesity
- Skin folds trap moisture and bacteria, especially under the breasts, between thighs, and around the waistline.
- Skin folds trap moisture and bacteria, especially under the breasts, between thighs, and around the waistline.
- Skin conditions
- Eczema, acne, or dermatitis damage the skin barrier and make it easier for bacteria to enter.
- Eczema, acne, or dermatitis damage the skin barrier and make it easier for bacteria to enter.
- History of boils
- Some people develop recurrent boils, a condition called chronic furunculosis, which may require long-term treatment.
- Some people develop recurrent boils, a condition called chronic furunculosis, which may require long-term treatment.
- Poorly managed wounds
- Inadequate first aid after cuts or insect bites can allow bacteria to grow and infect deeper skin layers.
Causes and Risk Factors of Boils
Boils are not usually dangerous, but recurring or large ones may signal a deeper problem. Understanding the risk factors helps prevent future outbreaks.
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