How to Treat a Carbuncle
Carbuncles are similar to boils in that they are both caused by staphylococcus aureus; the difference is the location and the size of the infection. Boils usually affect only one hair follicle and are referred to as furuncles. They usually appear on the groin, armpits, face or buttocks. Carbuncles, on the other hand, are a deeper infection, usually involving more than one hair follicle. A carbuncle is more like several boils in one area. Carbuncles are found on the back of the neck, shoulders, hips and thighs and usually affect elderly or middle-aged men more often than women. Carbuncles can be as small as a bean or as large as a golf ball. People with diabetes, low immunity, poor hygiene, dermatitis and overall poor health are more likely to get boils and carbuncles.
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Instructions
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Apply hot compresses two or three times a day using a washcloth dipped in hot water and wrung out. Use a clean washcloth each time, and be sure that no one else uses those cloths. Put crushed garlic directly on the carbuncle beneath the hot compress to help draw out the pus. It is important not to squeeze the carbuncle, which can spread the infection. You can also use calendula, neem or tea tree oil--all of which help kill staph and reduce pain--beneath the compress.
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Build your immunity by drinking echinacea tea, plenty of water and eating properly. Get plenty of rest and take ibuprofen if needed. Keep the carbuncle clean and dry between compress treatments. If possible, do not cover it with clothing.
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Keep yourself away from others to avoid spreading staph germs. Wash your laundry separately in hot water, detergent and a few drops of tea tree oil. A carbuncle should show signs of improvement within two weeks. If it doesn't, see your physician, who will probably prescribe antibiotics.
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Tips & Warnings
If red streaks begin to radiate from the carbuncle outward, see your physician immediately. This is a sign of a deeper infection that needs immediate medical treatment. If you get frequent boils or carbuncles, get checked for MRSA (methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus), which can be fatal if left untreated.
