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Step 1
Be careful not to let any of the leaking pus come in contact with any other part of your body or skin. This could cause more boils to develop.
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Step 2
Thoroughly wash your hands with warm water and plenty of antibacterial soap. A good rule of thumb is to aim for about 30 seconds of active scrubbing or roughly the amount of time it takes to sign "Happy Birthday." Remember to clean the areas around your nails.
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Step 3
Gently pat the area where you suspect you may have an abscess. Avoid directly touching any pus. See if you feel swelling and warmth in the area. If you see redness, usually with a yellow center, chances are pretty good that you do indeed have a boil.
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Step 4
Keep the area clean, dry and loosely covered with a piece of soft cloth or gauze. Call your primary health care provider. If he can't see you immediately, go to your nearest urgent health center or emergency department.
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Step 5
Once your boil has been treated and you've recovered, there are a few simple steps you can take to lessen the chance of developing future abscesses. Shower or bathe daily with antibacterial soap and then gently pat your skin dry with a clean towel. Pay special attention to your armpits, buttocks and between your legs. Avoid shaving in these sensitive areas; nicking a hair follicle can lead to pus formation.
