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June 19, 2013
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Abscess (cont.)

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Skin Abscess Treatment

Self-Care at Home

  • If the abscess is small (less than 1 cm or less than ½ inch across), applying warm compresses to the area for about 30 minutes, four times daily may help.


  • Do not attempt to drain the abscess by pressing on it. This can push the infected material into the deeper tissues.


  • Do not stick a needle or other sharp instrument into the abscess because it may injure an underlying blood vessel or cause the infection to spread.


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Read What Your Physician is Reading on Medscape

Peritonsillar Abscess »

Peritonsillar abscess (PTA) is a common infection of the head and neck region.

Read More on Medscape Reference »


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