Abscess Treatment Clinic in Columbia, MD

Abscesses are primarily caused by bacterial infections, with the most prevalent offender being Staphylococcus bacteria. These infections occur when bacteria enter the body through a break in the skin, such as a cut, scrape, or puncture wound, and cause an inflammatory response. This triggers the formation of a cavity, which fills with pus as the body attempts to isolate and fight off the infection. Other causes can include obstructed oil or sweat glands, hair follicle inflammation, or complications from certain diseases such as diabetes, which can affect the body’s immune response.

Treating an abscess typically involves a two-step procedure: draining the pus and addressing the underlying infection. Firstly, a healthcare professional might use a needle or a small incision to drain the pus from the abscess. This process alleviates the pain and pressure caused by the built-up fluid. Secondly, antibiotics may be prescribed to combat the infection, particularly if it’s widespread or severe. It’s important to follow the prescribed medication regime in full, even if symptoms improve before completion, to prevent the recurrence or spreading of the infection. As part of the healing and prevention process, maintaining good hygiene and taking care of any cuts or wounds promptly and properly is essential. Please keep in mind that while small abscesses may be manageable at home, it is crucial to have larger or persistent abscesses examined and treated by a healthcare professional. This is to prevent any potential complications and ensure proper care.

An abscess often appears as a swollen, tender, red area on the skin. It’s usually round and can vary in size, ranging from a small pea to a large grapefruit. Abscesses may feel warm to the touch and may be accompanied by red streaking or cellulitis, especially if the infection is spreading. In some cases, you may see a white or yellow center, which is the pus inside the abscess. The skin in the surrounding area may also exhibit a shiny or taut appearance. It’s important to note that while abscesses can occur anywhere on the body, they are more common on the armpits, base of the spine, groin, and around a tooth.

While some abscesses can resolve on their own, it’s not a guarantee, and it’s often risky to leave an abscess untreated. The body can sometimes manage to push the pus out through the skin’s surface, causing the abscess to burst and the infection to drain. Nevertheless, this approach is far from ideal and poses safety risks as it allows the infection to propagate, potentially resulting in severe health complications, including sepsis. Additionally, some abscesses are located in areas where it’s more difficult for them to drain naturally. Therefore, it’s highly recommended to seek medical attention for an abscess, regardless of its size or location. At Elite Urgent Care, we can properly drain the abscess and ensure the underlying infection is effectively managed, preventing further complications.
 
At Elite Urgent Care, we place the utmost importance on your health and safety. Our team is committed to providing quick, effective treatment to help you heal and get back to your daily routine. Don’t let an abscess cause unnecessary distress or risk further complications. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our skilled medical professionals. You can reach us at our clinic in Columbia, MD, or, for your convenience, book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 6100 Dobbin Rd, Suite A Columbia, MD 21045. We serve patients from Columbia MD, Ellicott City MD, Laurel MD, Elkridge MD, Clarksville MD, Fulton MD, Jessup MD, and surrounding areas.