Abscess - what is it and why does it occur?

Suppuration of soft tissues is the result of the inflammatory process and the activity of pathogenic bacteria. And since such a phenomenon is considered quite common, many people are interested in questions about why an abscess occurs, what it is and what are its first signs. After all, 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 restricted from neighboring structures by means of a so-called pyogenic membrane. As already mentioned, most often the cause of tissue suppuration is the activity of bacterial microorganisms, in particular, staphylococci.

More often pathogenic microorganisms penetrate into soft tissues through wounds, scratches and other skin injuries. Often there is also postinjection abscess, which occurs as a result of skin punctures, improper drug administration and non-compliance with sanitary norms during injection.

In addition, the causes of the abscess can be attributed to the presence of cysts, suppuration of the hematoma (subcutaneous hemorrhage). In some cases, the infection spreads from another focus of inflammation, for example, a furuncle.

Abscess: what is it and what symptoms are accompanied?

Immediately it is worth noting that the abscess can occur both on the skin and on any other tissues of the body. The main symptoms depend on the location of the purulent process. In any case, the abscess is accompanied by characteristic signs of intoxication. There is an increase in body temperature (sometimes even up to 41 degrees). Along with this, there is weakness, body aches, loss of appetite, drowsiness.

If the abscess is located in the skin tissues, then it is not difficult to notice. The skin swells, turns red and becomes hot to the touch. The affected area of the tissues becomes painful. In some cases, you can see the abscess itself.

Abscess: what is it and what is it dangerous?

Naturally, the abscess gives the person a lot of inconvenience. But in the absence of treatment, the consequences can be dangerous. Occasionally, the suppurative process fades in itself. But most often the abscess breaks out sooner or later, releasing its purulent contents. Depending on the location of the abscess, purulent masses can be released outward or spread to neighboring tissues, worsening the patient's condition.

In addition, the inflammatory process can change into a chronic form, which can lead to fistula formation.

How to treat an abscess?

Naturally, at the first signs of suppuration it is necessary to apply for medical help. Therapy with a similar pathology is reduced to opening the capsule of the abscess and purifying the tissues from purulent masses. If the abscess is located on the internal organs, 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 laboratory examination of samples, determination of the nature of the pathogen and its sensitivity to a particular drug. With a fistula, the doctor removes the purulent capsule and surrounding tissue.