Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0 Spanish version
Boils - Brief Version
What is a boil?
A boil is a tender, red lump in the skin. It can be painful
even when it is not being touched. Most of the time it is
1/2 to 1 inch wide. A boil is a hair root or skin pore that
has been infected by bacteria called Staphylococcus (or
staph).
How can I take care of my child?
Give your child antibiotics. It can really help to give
your child pills prescribed by your doctor. The boil
will heal faster. It will also be less likely to
return.
Keep your child clean. It is easy to get a boil again.
Make sure your child showers and washes his hair every
day with an antibacterial soap. This will help wash
away staph bacteria on the skin.
Do not let other people use your child's towels or washcloths. The boils are easy to spread.
Do not squeeze a boil. You may spread boils to other
parts of the body.
Call your child's doctor during office hours if:
The boil is not better within 48 hours after starting
the antibiotic.
The boil has come to a head.
You have other concerns or questions.
Written by B.D. Schmitt, M.D., author of "Your Child's Health," Bantam Books.
