Symptoms include severe pain, redness, swelling, and a feeling of pressure in the affected area. In more advanced cases, a person may experience fever or general fatigue. The pain often worsens over time if the abscess is not treated properly.
Treatment is usually performed by medical professionals and involves draining and cleaning the infected area under sterile conditions. In some cases, antibiotics are also required to prevent the spread of infection. It is very important not to attempt treatment at home, as this may lead to serious complications.
Prevention includes maintaining good personal hygiene, cleaning wounds promptly, and avoiding squeezing pimples or suspicious swellings. If a painful swelling does not go away, seeking medical attention early is the safest way to prevent more serious health problems.