Should I cover a boil with a band-aid if it is not draining?



Boils are caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus Aureus. They are infectious and spread quickly to other parts of the body. Always handle a boil with clean, sterilized hands and never touch other parts of the body until you have washed your hands with an antibacterial soap or rubbing alcohol.

Many factors cause boils:
  • Ingrown hair
  • Splinters or other foreign objects lodged in the skin
  • Blocked up sweat glands
  • Cuts and scrapes that get infected.
  • People with diabetes are more prone
  • Herpes Simplex infection

Exercising some caution in personal hygiene can prevent certain kinds of boils. Wash your hands with an antibacterial soap frequently and scrub with a natural loofah in the bath. Exfoliation will prevent boils caused by ingrown hair and blocked sweat glands. Apply a warm compress with a wet washcloth. You can also use the following by applying them to the boil and wrapping up in a gauze bandage.

  • Cabbage leaves
  • Warmed tomatoes slices
  • Mashed garlic
  • Onion slices

If the boil feels tight to touch and about ready to burst, try pricking it with a needle. But be sure to sterilize both the needle and your hands before doing this. And also wash immediately afterwards with an antibacterial soap.

answered by S E


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