What starts as a small, tender bump on the skin can sometimes turn painful very quickly. Skin abscesses—pockets of infection under the skin—are more common than many people realize. They can appear anywhere on the body and often begin with redness, swelling, warmth, and increasing pain. In some cases, fever or general illness may follow.
The good news is that many abscesses can be safely treated right here at Primary Care Partners of South Bend, without a trip to urgent care or the emergency room.
What Is a Skin Abscess?
A skin abscess forms when bacteria get trapped under the skin, leading to infection and a buildup of pus. They can be caused by ingrown hairs, blocked sweat glands, minor cuts, insect bites, or skin irritation. Abscesses may look like boils or swollen lumps and can worsen if left untreated.
Why Early Care Matters
While some minor skin issues heal on their own, abscesses often do not. Trying to “wait it out” or drain an abscess at home can make the infection worse and increase the risk of spreading bacteria or developing complications.
You should contact us if you notice:
• Increasing redness, swelling, or pain
• Warmth around the area
• Fever or chills
• Drainage that doesn’t improve
• Pain that interferes with daily activities
Safe, In-Office Treatment
Our providers are trained to evaluate skin infections and determine the best treatment plan. When appropriate, we can perform an in-office incision and drainage (I&D) to safely release the infection under sterile conditions. We may also prescribe antibiotics or other treatments to support healing and prevent recurrence.
Please do not squeeze, pop, or try to drain an abscess at home. This can push the infection deeper into the skin and lead to more serious problems.
Convenient Care You Can Trust
At Primary Care Partners, we believe timely care makes a difference. Treating abscesses in-house helps you get relief faster, avoid unnecessary ER visits, and receive follow-up care from a provider who knows your health history.
- If you notice symptoms that aren’t improving, don’t wait.
Call 574-251-1200 to schedule a visit
Schedule online at www.primarycaresb.com
Established patients can also message us through the patient portal
