[20M] Recurring boil on lower left leg

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the recurring boil on your leg might be due to the following conditions:

• Folliculitis: This is an infection of the hair follicles, the small pouches from which hairs grow. It can occur anywhere on the skin that has hair, including your leg. Folliculitis often appears as small, red, and sometimes pus-filled bumps. It can be caused by a variety of things like friction from clothing, blockage of the follicle, or bacterial infections.

  • Treatment typically involves topical antibiotics, warm compresses, and avoiding activities that cause friction on the affected area.

• Hidradenitis Suppurativa: This is a chronic skin condition that features pea-sized to marble-sized lumps under the skin. They can be painful and may break open and drain foul-smelling pus. In many cases, tunnels connecting the lumps will form over time. Hidradenitis suppurativa tends to start after puberty, persist for years, and worsen over time.

  • Treatment often involves antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and sometimes surgery.

• Staphylococcal Infections: These are infections caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus. They can cause skin infections and can manifest as boils, especially if there is a break in the skin, which allows the bacteria to enter. Recurrent staphylococcal infections can occur in otherwise healthy people, but can be more common in those with weakened immune systems.

  • Treatment typically involves antibiotics, and in some cases, the boil may need to be drained.

What you can do

While waiting for a consultation with a healthcare professional, here are some things you can do:

1. Do not attempt to squeeze or pop the boil, as this can spread the infection.
2. Apply a warm, wet washcloth to the boil for 20 to 30 minutes, 3 or 4 times a day. This can help bring the boil to a head, but it may take 1 to 2 weeks.
3. Keep the area clean and avoid touching it unnecessarily.
4. Wash your hands thoroughly after touching the boil.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if:

• The boil doesn't drain
• The boil is on your face, spine, groin, or rectum
• You develop a fever
• The area around the boil turns red or red streaks appear
• The pain gets worse or the boil doesn't improve after a week
• You have a heart murmur, diabetes, any problem with your immune system, or are using immune suppressing drugs (for example, corticosteroids or chemotherapy) and you develop a boil.

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examinations, treatment, testing, and care recommendations.