July 6, 2008

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Boils

Boils Overview

A boil is a skin infection that starts in a hair follicle or oil gland. At first, the skin turns red in the area of the infection, and a tender lump develops. After four to seven days, the lump starts turning white as pus collects under the skin.

  • The most common places for boils to appear are on the face, neck, armpits, shoulders, and buttocks. When one forms on the eyelid, it is called a sty.
  • If several boils appear in a group, this is a more serious type of infection called a carbuncle.


Next: Causes of Boils »


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