Could This Be a Recurring Abscess or Something More Serious?
Age: 32, Female Almost two weeks ago, I underwent a procedure at the hospital to drain a sizable abscess. This marked my initial experience with such a condition. I had recently shaved, which I initially attributed to a problematic ingrown hair. The medical professional drained the abscess and instructed me to manage the area at home, assuring me that I would recover without the need for antibiotics. I noticed significant improvement as the swelling began to subside. However, in recent days, I’ve noticed the emergence of a new bump. While it’s not as painful as the original, I am concerned that there may be an underlying issue. Could this indicate hidradenitis suppurativa (HS)? I plan to visit a walk-in clinic tomorrow to get tested for MRSA, as I have come across information suggesting it could be a possibility. The amount of information I’ve consumed has left me feeling quite anxious. Given how excruciating the first drainage was, I am hoping to prevent a repeat of that experience if at all possible. I have attached an image of the initial abscess. Currently, IMG2175 shows my underarm area. I should note that I am not experiencing any symptoms like fever or chills.
Answers (1)
2/12/2026, 3:50:35 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about a new bump following your recent experience with an abscess. Based on your description, it could be several things, including a recurrence of the abscess, a new ingrown hair, or possibly even hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), especially given the location and your concerns. However, without seeing the bump, it's challenging to provide a definitive answer. Here’s what to consider moving forward:
Explanation
An abscess forms when bacteria infect a hair follicle or a gland in the skin, leading to a collection of pus. After the initial drainage, it's common for nearby areas to become irritated or develop new bumps. Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic skin condition affecting areas like the armpits, resulting in painful lumps or abscesses that may recur. The absence of fever or chills is a good sign, as these symptoms might indicate systemic infection.
Prioritized Next Steps
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Visit the Walk-in Clinic: Since you have already planned a visit, it's essential to discuss your concerns with the healthcare provider and mention the possibility of HS and MRSA testing. Bring up the new bump and any changes since the procedure.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on the new bump and note any changes in size, color, or any pain levels. If it starts to get larger or more painful, it's important to seek care sooner.
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Care for the Area: Continue to keep the area clean and avoid tight clothing that can irritate the skin. Moisturizing gently can help prevent further irritation.
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Reduce Anxiety: Consider using relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or mindfulness, to manage anxiety while you await your clinic visit.
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Gather Information: Educate yourself about HS but try to balance your research with reliable sources. Remember, many conditions can mimic one another, and only a professional can provide an accurate diagnosis.
While it's natural to feel anxious about potential complications, staying proactive about your health and following up on changes will help you get the best outcome. Don't hesitate to ask any further questions or clarify concerns with your healthcare provider.
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