Should I Seek Medical Attention for a Cyst or Boil After Ten Days?
Ten days prior, I discovered what appeared to be a sizeable pimple beneath the skin on the lateral aspect of my breast. Even with clothing on, I could feel a firm lump, and the surrounding area, roughly 2cm in size, was noticeably red. This condition persisted for several days. Gradually, the skin began to peel away, and a head formed. At one point, the head came off, resulting in pus leakage. I applied some pressure yesterday to encourage drainage. Today, the top layer continues to peel, and it drains on its own, leaving behind a noticeable crater. Although the lump has shrunk from its original size, it remains quite firm. I haven't attempted to squeeze it further. I’m maintaining hygiene by cleaning the area with alcohol to keep it as clean as possible. Should I consult my general practitioner or a dermatologist, or is it likely to resolve on its own? Additionally, I recall having a raised bump in the same area for several weeks before this incident, which I’d attributed to friction, as it was not inflamed and did not appear red. I’m a 26-year-old female, approximately 160 cm tall, weighing 75 kg, and I neither smoke nor consume alcohol.
Answers (1)
7/8/2025, 6:10:52 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’ve been dealing with a concerning lump that has had changes over the past ten days. Based on your description, it could be a cyst or a boil that has become inflamed and infected, especially given the red area and pus drainage. While many cysts and boils can resolve on their own, it is important to monitor the situation closely.
Explanation:
- What You're Experiencing: The red lump you felt is likely an inflamed cyst or boil. These conditions can occur due to blockages in hair follicles or sweat glands that become infected.
- Current Condition: The peeling skin and pus drainage suggest that your body is responding to an infection, which is a sign that you need to manage the situation carefully.
- Prior Raised Bump: The prior raised bump you noted may also be related, indicating a recurring issue in that area.
Next Steps:
- Continue Monitoring: Observe the lump for any changes over the next few days. Keep track of any additional symptoms like increased redness, warmth, swelling, pain, or fever.
- Keep the Area Clean: Continue your hygiene routine, but consider switching from alcohol to a mild soap and warm water to avoid further irritation. You can apply a clean, dry bandage if needed.
- Avoid Squeezing: Refrain from squeezing or applying pressure to the lump, as this can worsen the infection or lead to further complications.
- Seek Medical Attention: Given that the area is still firm and there has been pus drainage, it would be prudent to consult a general practitioner or a dermatologist. They can assess whether further treatment, such as drainage or antibiotics, is necessary.
When to Seek Immediate Care:
Seek medical help sooner if you experience worsening pain, spreading redness, fever, or if the lump does not improve or gets larger.
Your attention to the changes in your body is commendable, and taking action early often leads to better outcomes. If you have any further questions or concerns, please feel free to ask.
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