Recurrent Boils on Inner Thigh

Boils are not only a cause of cosmetic concern, these also cause a great deal of discomfort. Boils begin as small tender lumps, but when pus starts accumulating within the lumps, their size could increase considerably. Boils may occur singly or may form in clusters. A single boil is medically referred to as a furuncle, whereas the term carbuncle signifies a cluster of boils. Pus-filled boils can develop anywhere on the body. However, they can cause a lot of discomfort if they appear on the armpit, inner thigh or the groin region. If you have been suffering from recurrent boils on inner thigh, you must consult a doctor at the earliest. Scroll down to find out what causes boils on the inner thigh and how these can be treated.

Why Do Boils Appear on Inner Thigh?

Boils may be caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. This staph bacteria normally resides on the skin, but it cannot cause any harm until it finds a way into the body. For this bacteria to cause a skin infection, it must find a way into the deeper layers of the skin. It is only when there is a break in the skin, that these bacteria are able to enter into the skin. Once the bacteria enter through the wounded skin, they begin to multiply and infect that section of the skin. Bacteria could also infect the hair follicle, if it has been damaged. So, if an injury causes a break in the skin, it must be treated soon. If bacteria enter into the skin through an open and untreated wound, boils may develop on the affected skin. Besides boils or skin abscesses, one could also suffer from other skin infections such as impetigo, folliculitis or cellulitis due to staph bacteria.

Disorders associated with the sebaceous glands could also give rise to recurrent boils. Hidradenitis suppurativa is one such condition that could make one susceptible to boils on the armpits or the inner thigh. This skin infection is considered to be a severe type of acne. This is associated with the inflammation of large apocrine glands located in the armpit and groin. Such skin infections, develop only after one hits puberty. It is believed that there is a connection between hormonal changes and this skin condition. Fluid-filled lumps usually form when the secretions from these glands cannot escape. Such pus-filled lumps, cysts or boils may leak and leave behind scars. Those who have suffered from acne, or have a family history of this disease are at the risk of developing this condition. Hidradenitis suppurativa may persist for years and may cause recurrent boils in the armpits, groin or the inner thigh.

Treatment of Boils

Recurrent boils may appear when one carries a strain of the staph bacteria, which manages to enter into the deeper layers of the skin through cuts or open wounds. Since such skin abscesses cause a lot of discomfort, these must be treated soon. The treatment generally involves the use of antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs. At times, severe abscesses may also be accompanied by a low-grade fever or swollen lymph nodes. Drugs are often prescribed to alleviate these symptoms. Topical application of antibiotic ointment is generally recommended. Certain precautions must also be taken so as to prevent recurrent outbreaks. One must refrain from touching the skin abscess and never try to squeeze it to drain the pus. This can cause the infection to spread to other parts. If the boil bursts on its own, clean the area with an anti-bacterial soap and dry it properly. Otherwise, consult a dermatologist. Medical treatment generally involves drainage of the infected fluid. For that an incision is made and a local anesthetic is administered. Once the infected fluid is drained out, a dressing is applied over the affected area.

The treatment of hidradenitis suppurativa usually involves the use of drugs. Drugs that are used for treating acne are prescribed for treating this condition as well. If the symptoms are severe, painkillers or oral corticosteroids may also be prescribed. Surgical intervention that involves the drainage and removal of the lesions, followed by skin grafting may be suggested in severe cases. People who have a weak immune system or are suffering from nutritional deficiencies or diabetes are more susceptible to boils or skin infections. So, treating an underlying condition may also prevent recurrent outbreaks. Poor personal hygiene is another contributory factor for boils or rashes on inner thigh or groin. One must take precautions and wear loose clothing so as to avoid friction. Wearing clothes made from cotton or fabrics that allow the skin to breathe, would also help. Using medicated antibacterial soaps may also prove beneficial and prevent outbreaks in future.

Now that you have some idea on the causes of recurrent boils, make sure that you take all possible precautionary measures to prevent such skin infections. Pay attention to personal hygiene and follow a healthy diet. If these measures don't help and you still suffer from recurrent outbreaks, consult a doctor immediately.