Suppuration of soft tissues is the result of the inflammatory process and the activity of pathogenic bacteria. And since this phenomenon is considered quite common, many people are interested in questions about why an abscess occurs, what are these and what are its first signs. Indeed, in the absence of timely treatment, a purulent process can give some unpleasant complications.
Abscess: what is it and what are its causes?
An abscess is an accumulation of pus in the tissues, which is limited from neighboring structures using the so-called pyogenic membrane. As already mentioned, most often the cause of suppuration of tissues is the activity of bacterial microorganisms, in particular, staphylococci.
Most often, pathogenic microorganisms penetrate the soft tissues through wounds, scratches and other skin lesions. Often there is also a post-injection abscess, which occurs as a result of skin punctures, improper drug administration and non-compliance with sanitary standards during the injection.
In addition, the presence of a cyst, suppuration of a hematoma (subcutaneous hemorrhage) can be attributed to the causes of the abscess. In some cases, the infection spreads from another focus of inflammation, for example, a boil.
Abscess: what is it and what symptoms are accompanied?
It is immediately worth noting that an abscess can occur both on the skin and on any other body tissues. The main symptoms depend on the location of the purulent process. In any case, an abscess is accompanied by characteristic signs of intoxication. There is an increase in body temperature (sometimes even up to 41 degrees). Along with this, weakness, body aches, loss of appetite, drowsiness occur.
If the abscess is located in the skin tissue, then it is easy to notice. The skin swells, reddens and becomes hot to the touch. The affected area of tissues becomes painful. In some cases, you can see the abscess itself.
Abscess: what is it and how is it dangerous?
Naturally, an abscess gives a person a lot of inconvenience. But if untreated, the consequences can be dangerous. Occasionally, a purulent process fades on its own. But more often than not, an abscess erupts sooner or later, releasing its purulent contents. Depending on the location of the abscess, purulent masses may stand out or spread to neighboring tissues, worsening the patient's condition.
In addition, the inflammatory process can turn into a chronic form, which is fraught with the formation of fistulas.
How to treat an abscess?
Naturally, at the first signs of suppuration, you should seek medical help. Therapy with a similar pathology is reduced to opening the abscess capsule and cleansing the tissues from purulent masses. If the abscess is located on the internal organs, then the doctor can prescribe a puncture followed by washing with antibiotics and antiseptic solutions.
With superficial abscesses, it is extremely important to maintain the cleanliness of the formed wound, which is ensured by regular washing and changing dressings. Antibiotics are prescribed only after a laboratory study of the samples, determining the nature of the pathogen and its sensitivity to a particular drug. If there are fistulas, the doctor removes the purulent capsule and surrounding tissue.