A boil comes in the category of a skin infection which either begins in a hair follicle or an oil gland; redness develops on the skin initially, which then develops into a tender lump. Moreover, after a few days, pus accumulates under the skin and the lump starts turning white. The skin infection/boil usually presents with fever. Care must be taken because the condition is highly contagious and physical contact should be avoided with others to prevent the disease from spreading.
Here’s what this article will cover
- What causes boils?
- What is the treatment for boils?
- How to get rid of boils overnight with home remedies?
- When should you see a doctor?
What causes boils?
The usual cause of boils is the invasion of bacteria into the body through cuts. Likewise, the common sites a boil may appear at include the buttocks, shoulders, neck, armpits and face. Nonetheless, boils are more prevalent in people suffering with pre-existing medical conditions, for instance, diabetes and low immunity or in people who are frequently exposed to harsh chemicals, have poor nutrition and hygiene.
What is the treatment of boils?
Pus is drained out from the infected area and antibiotics are prescribed; application of topical ointments is also effective to treat the boils.
How to get rid of boils overnight with home remedies?
If you are looking for ways to get rid of boils overnight, then there are some remedies which give the desired results instantly.
Warm water compresses to ease the pain and drain the pus
Simply soak a towel in warm water, squeezing the excess water out, put the towel on the area affected and allow the pus to drain to the surface. Moreover, apply rubbing alcohol or topical ointment to the affected area once the pus has oozed out.
Onions
Cut thin slices of onions and tie it to the area of infection and allow it to sit for a few hours, to get rid of boils. The anti-septic and anti-fungal properties of onions force pus to come out of the boils and regulate blood circulation. For quick results, repeat this for a few days.
Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-septic; apply it on the infected area with cotton until the boil disappears.
Garlic
Garlic is rich in sulfur compounds which is helpful in curing boils. Apply a layer of garlic paste mixed with olive oil to the boil and cover it with a gauze for a few hours.
Neem leaves
The medicinal properties of neem are beneficial to get rid of boils. Boil a few neem leaves in water and let the water reduce to three-fourths of its original measure. Apply the water on the affected area with cotton for a few days until the infection clears.
Turmeric
The anti-bacterial properties of this Indian herb are useful for all types of skin infections, including boils. Add a few drops of water to turmeric and make a paste, apply it to the infected area and cover with a gauze. Rinse with water after 30 minutes and repeat this process 3 to 4 times a day.
Epsom Salt
Soak the infected area in a tub filled with warm water and 2 cups of Epsom salt several times a day to get rid of boils.
When should you see a doctor?
Most boils can be treated with home remedies, however, in some cases, it is essential to seek medical help. See a doctor immediately if you have a fever, the skin around the boil has turned red, a second boil has appeared, the pain is excruciating, the boil has not drained within a few days, swollen lymph nodes or if you have any pre-existing medical conditions like heart problems or diabetes.