Boil on my leg and now there is a hole and swollen around it?

Question

I had a boil on my leg and it exploded and all the pus came out. However, there is now a hole and the skin around it is all swollen and red. Is it infected?

Answer 1

Since a boil is an infection to begin with, it is still an infected after it opens up.   At this stage, its a good idea to wash the boil thoroughly with soap and water, let it dry, then apply iodine solution (put it on a little at a time because it will sting), and then cover the boil with a bandaid or gauze to soak up the pus as it drains.   Repeat the iodine once or twice a day as long as th boil is draining.

The redness and swelling should begin to shrink over the next day or two if the boil is healing.  If the redness and swelling get worse or start to obviously spread, go to the doc right away.  

Answer 2

Yes, the boil was an infection, and the whole is normal.  However the swelling and redness should go down shortly after the boil drains.  I have had a bunch of boils...too many, and never had one that was red and swollen after the boil drained.  You should go to the Dr and get it checked out.  

Answer 3

It very well could be infected. You need to see the doctor. I have seen those things require hospitalization for IV antibiotics.

Answer 4

yes.  boils are caused by bacterial infections in the hair follicle.  the pus escaping does not mean the infection is cleared.  microscopic colonies of the bacteria are still down in there.  repeatedly swab with alcohol to keep the bacteria at bay.  i suggest making an appointment with the dermatologist and if it is still there one week from now and hasn't gotten better go because you may need an antibiotic.  otherwise, cancel the appointment.  

Answer 5

Swollen & red w/warmth can very well be a sign of infection. But w/a boil, you're best bet is to get some  med attention asap. Only because everything that drained out was infection & there could still be infection left, you need a med prof to clean & ensure all drainage is gone, get it packed & most likely get on an antibiotic to keep away any reoccurring infection.

Answer 6

It's going to continue to drain for several days.  Apply an antibiotic ointment or cream and then keep it covered with light gauze (not a band aid) and keep the dressing changed.