Abscess Incision & Drainage in Sevierville TN | AFC Urgent Care

Cysts vs. Abscesses

Cysts and abscesses may appear similar, but they have different causes and characteristics.

Cysts are abnormal cells that form a sac or cavity and can be present anywhere in your body, including the surface of your skin. They may contain fluid or pus and can feel like a hard lump. Cysts can often go unnoticed until they grow large or cause discomfort.

On the other hand, an abscess is a pus-filled sac that results from the body’s attempt to combat an infection caused by bacteria, fungi, or parasites. The most common type of abscess is a skin abscess, which forms under the skin and is filled with pus.

Signs & Symptoms of a Skin Abscess

When it comes to an abscess, the main indication is a painful, compressible section of skin that resembles either a large pimple or an open sore. The skin near the abscess can appear red and feel both tender and warm to the touch. In certain instances, you may also notice pus draining from the wound.

Other possible symptoms may include:

● Swelling around the affected area

● A hard outer layer of skin

● Fever and chills (in severe cases)

Causes of a Skin Abscess

An abscess is a painful skin infection that can occur when bacteria get trapped under your skin due to blocked sweat or oil glands. You may be vulnerable to bacterial infection that can cause an abscess if you get a cut or nick in your skin. Once the inflammation and infection become unbearable, that’s when most people often seek help.

Several factors can increase your risk of developing an abscess, including:

• Diabetes
• Severe eczema or acne
• Smoking
• Close contact with someone who has a Staphylococcus (staph) infection
• A weak immune system

Do I need an incision & drainage?

Medical providers often use incision & drainage to relieve pain and pressure caused by fluid buildup in cysts and abscesses. The procedure drains the fluid from the affected area, which can help reduce the size of the cyst or abscess, as well as prevent the spread of infection.

Without I&D, an abscess may not fully heal on its own, and bacteria can continue to grow and spread. While antibiotics can kill bacteria in the immediate area around the abscess, they are generally ineffective at eradicating the bacteria that has accumulated within the abscess cavity.

If left untreated, an abscess can lead to a bloodstream infection, also known as sepsis. This can be a life-threatening condition, which requires immediate medical attention. In some cases, the abscess may require debridement, a medical procedure where dead tissue surrounding the abscess is removed.

What to Expect During an I&D Procedure

Incision & drainage procedures can vary based on the type of abscess or wound being treated. However, the overall process is relatively straightforward.

Your AFC provider will begin by administering a local anesthetic to numb the area surrounding the abscess. This will ensure that you experience minimal discomfort during the procedure. Once the area is numb, they will make a small incision in the abscess, allowing the pus to drain.

In some cases, your provider may need to make additional incisions, depending on the size and depth of the wound. To prevent the pus from reaccumulating, they may also place a drain in the abscess. After the procedure is complete, your provider will clean up the area and apply a bandage.

Recovering from an I&D Procedure

After the procedure, you’ll receive specific instructions for wound care. These instructions will include keeping the area clean and dry and taking any prescribed antibiotics to prevent further infections. The duration of the healing process depends on the size of the abscess, but it usually takes one or two weeks. During this time, new skin will grow around the sides and bottom of the abscess.

Although side effects from an I&D procedure are rare, it’s essential to seek medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms after the procedure:

● Bleeding

● Increased pain

● Redness and swelling

● Fever

If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact AFC Urgent Care as soon as possible.