WATCH : huge Abscess pop

When to Seek Medical Care

Call your doctor if any of the following occur with an abscess:
    You have a sore larger than 1 cm or a half-inch across.
    The sore continues to enlarge or becomes more painful.
    The sore is on or near your rectal or groin area.
    You develop a fever.
    You notice red streaks, which can mean the infection is spreading.
    You have any of the medical conditions listed above.
Go to a hospital’s Emergency Department if any of these conditions occur with an abscess:
    Fever of 102°F or higher, especially if you have a chronic disease or are on steroids, chemotherapy, or dialysis
    A red streak leading away from the sore or with tender lymph nodes (lumps) in an area anywhere between the abscess and your chest area (for example, an abscess on your leg can cause swollen lymph nodes in your groin area)
    Any facial abscess larger than 1 cm or a half-inch across

Exams and Tests

The doctor will take a medical history and may ask you:
    How long the abscess has been present
    If you recall any injury to that area
    What medicines you may be taking
    If you have any allergies
    If you have had a fever at home
The doctor will examine the abscess and surrounding areas. If it is near your anus, the doctor will perform a rectal exam. If an arm or leg is involved, the doctor will feel for a lymph gland either in your groin or under your arm.