A carbuncle is a severe form of a bacterial infection caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. A characteristic feature of carbuncle is the appearance of a cluster of boils that remains interconnected under the skin. Carbuncles mostly appear at the back of the thighs, necks or shoulders (can affect other body parts including the armpits and buttocks). The impact and discomfort are much higher in the case of a carbuncle than a single boil.
One of the symptoms of carbuncle is
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A characteristic symptom of carbuncle is the appearance of small red bumps. These bumps are painful and eventually develop into boils filled with dead tissues and pus (debris). Most of the times, a carbuncle develops a yellow or white head at the center (as is the case with most boils). In case of being unattended or untreated for long, the carbuncle may eventually burst open releasing the stored fluid. Diabetic patients, people with skin diseases (eczema, acne) or a weakened immune system, stand a higher probability of developing a carbuncle.
In most cases, a carbuncle drains by themselves within
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A carbuncle that has been drained acts as a catalyst, accelerating the healing process. In most cases, a carbuncle drains out in less than two weeks. The problem arises when the carbuncles persist for more than two weeks associated with fever and excruciating pain and discomfort. Though rare, the carbuncle, at times, may slip into the bloodstream triggering complications as severe as sepsis or infections affecting the heart, lungs, blood, to name a few.
The application of warm compress can produce fruitful results in case of carbuncles.
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Application of warm compress (can be a warm moist cloth) on the carbuncle not only facilitates a faster drainage of the carbuncle but also helps in a better healing. Addition of salt to the warm compress works even better. The use of Apple Cider Vinegar, (known for its anti-inflammatory properties) or neem paste (antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties, to name a few) will also provide fruitful results. Make sure you do not press the cloth too hard or try and squeeze or prick the boil.
The use of herbs and spices does not make any difference in the case of carbuncles.
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The herbs, especially, garlic, turmeric, and onion, have long been used to treat boils and carbuncles. Garlic, turmeric, and onion come laden with anti-inflammatory, antiviral, anticoagulant, antibacterial and analgesic properties that go a long way to lower the pain, swelling, and other associated symptoms of carbuncle. Many people with carbuncles have benefitted immensely with the application of turmeric paste, garlic paste (use freshly crushed garlic cloves) or onion juice on the carbuncle and adjacent skin areas. The use of topical antibiotics or antibacterial soaps may be helpful.
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