“Is this infected?”
Is this infected and do I need to see a doctor or can it be treated at home? It's not hot to the touch. It was a deep pimple I tried popping and it didn't pop and it got very swollen but after icing, it went down overnight. But then a scab grew over it and it's slightly yellow. Is it infected or can I put cream and a bandaid over it and wait for it to heal?
Female | 24 years old
Complaint duration: 2 days
Medications: Tylenol
Conditions: Just slightly sore at the bend of my nose other wise nothing
2 Answers
It is infected, but it seems to be healing. Just keep it clean. Never squeeze pimples or boils on the face in the future - on occasion, that can spread the infection, usually a Staph, to the brain.
Carl Lauter, MD, MACP, FAAAAI, FIDSA
Carl Lauter, MD, MACP, FAAAAI, FIDSA
Thanks for the question.
If there is no fever, pain, or spread, wash with soap and water, and place antiseptic cream or ointment on it. Clean and repeat every 12 hours for 3 or 4 days. See a doctor if it spreads or worsens.
If there is no fever, pain, or spread, wash with soap and water, and place antiseptic cream or ointment on it. Clean and repeat every 12 hours for 3 or 4 days. See a doctor if it spreads or worsens.
