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What is an abscess?
An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms in the body when the immune system tries to fight an infection. It can develop in the skin, gums, teeth, or deeper tissues. Abscesses are often swollen, painful, and warm to the touch.
The pus is made up of dead white blood cells, bacteria, and tissue debris. This usually means the body is dealing with an infection that has become trapped in one area. If an abscess is not treated, it may get larger or spread.
Infection is the main cause
The most common cause of an abscess is a bacterial infection. Bacteria can enter the body through a cut, bite, blocked pore, or another break in the skin. Once inside, they can multiply and trigger inflammation.
The body sends white blood cells to the area to fight the infection. When the infection is difficult to clear, pus builds up and creates an abscess. This is why abscesses often form where bacteria have been able to settle and grow.
Common causes on the skin
Skin abscesses often start with a small injury or infection. A boil, ingrown hair, infected scratch, or infected wound can all lead to one. They may also develop around hair follicles or sweat glands.
People with conditions such as acne or eczema may be more likely to get skin abscesses. Broken or irritated skin can make it easier for bacteria to enter. Poor hygiene, close contact with infected people, or shared personal items can also raise the risk.
Dental and gum infections
Abscesses are also common in the mouth. A tooth abscess can happen when bacteria reach the inside of a tooth, often through tooth decay, a crack, or dental injury. Gum disease can also allow infection to build up around the teeth.
These abscesses can cause severe pain, swelling, and sensitivity. Because the infection is trapped in a confined area, it may not go away on its own. Dental abscesses need prompt treatment from a dentist.
Factors that increase the risk
Some people are more likely to develop abscesses than others. Diabetes, a weakened immune system, smoking, and poor circulation can all make infections more likely or harder to fight. Repeated skin friction or blocked glands can also contribute.
Living with an existing skin condition or having had an abscess before may increase the chance of another one. In some cases, a strain of bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus is involved. This is one reason abscesses can sometimes keep coming back.
When to seek medical help
It is important to get advice if an abscess is painful, growing, or not improving. You should also seek help if you have a fever, feel unwell, or the redness is spreading. Abscesses on the face, near the eye, or in the groin may need urgent assessment.
Never try to squeeze or burst an abscess yourself. This can push the infection deeper or spread it to other areas. A GP, urgent care service, or dentist can advise on the right treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
An abscess is a localized collection of pus caused by an infection.
The most common cause of an abscess is a bacterial infection.
Yes, although less common, fungal infections can cause abscesses.
Bacteria can enter the body through breaks in the skin, wounds, or minor cuts.
Most abscesses are caused by infections, but sometimes they can result from non-infectious inflammation or foreign bodies.
The immune system sends white blood cells to the site of infection, resulting in the formation of pus and a localized abscess.
Yes, poor hygiene can increase the risk of abscess formation by allowing bacteria to enter the body.
Yes, conditions like diabetes or immune deficiencies can increase the risk of developing abscesses.
Yes, dental infections or tooth decay can lead to dental abscesses.
No, abscesses can occur in any part of the body, including internal organs.
The infection causing an abscess can sometimes spread, but the abscess itself is not contagious.
Yes, injury or trauma can break the skin and allow bacteria to enter, leading to an abscess.
Ingrown hairs can create small skin wounds that may become infected and form abscesses.
Occasionally, surgical wounds can become infected and develop into abscesses.
Staphylococcus aureus, including MRSA, is a common bacteria causing abscesses.
Yes, blocked sweat or oil glands can trap bacteria and result in abscess formation.
Yes, splinters or other foreign objects can introduce bacteria and cause abscesses.
Yes, intravenous drug use can introduce bacteria directly under the skin, increasing abscess risk.
Yes, untreated infections can spread through the bloodstream and form abscesses in other tissues or organs.
Yes, bites can break the skin and introduce bacteria, potentially resulting in abscess formation.
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