Patient guide
Skin abscess drainage: symptoms, urgent signs and treatment
By the SkinOps team · Updated · 2 min read
Based on information from the NHS website. This guide is waiting for review by a clinician and is not medical advice.
A skin abscess is a painful lump or swelling that contains pus. It happens when bacteria get into the skin, often through a small cut or a hair follicle.
Unlike most of the lumps in our guides, an abscess can need prompt treatment. If you think you have one, start with the NHS rather than shopping around.
Signs of a skin abscess
- a round lump that is warm to touch
- a soft centre
- red skin around it, although this can be harder to see on brown and black skin
- pus leaking from it
- a high temperature
Who is more likely to get one
Anyone can get a skin abscess. They are more common in people who smoke, are living with obesity or diabetes, are aged roughly 15 to 40, or have a skin condition such as eczema.
When to get help
Ask for an urgent GP appointment or contact NHS 111 if
you have a lump that is painful, red or hot and you feel unwell, or the redness is spreading.
See a GP if a lump:
- has lasted more than 2 weeks
- is getting bigger
- is hard and does not move
- is in your breast
Also see a GP about a lump if your immune system is weakened.
How an abscess is treated
An abscess may need to be drained to get rid of the pus. This is minor surgery, done under local anaesthetic so the area is numb while you stay awake. You may also be given antibiotics.
The local anaesthetic injection can be uncomfortable and may leave some bruising. Tingling as the numbness wears off is normal.
A note on private treatment
Some private clinics offer abscess drainage. If you are unwell, the redness is spreading or you have a high temperature, use NHS 111 or your GP straight away rather than waiting for a private appointment.