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AbscessesAn abscess is a collection of pus that has accumulated in a cavity formed by the tissue on the basis of an infectious process (usually caused by bacteria or parasites) or other foreign materials (e.g. splinters or bullet wounds). It is a defensive reaction of the tissue to prevent the spread of infectious materials to other parts of the body.The organisms or foreign materials kill the local cells, resulting in the release of toxins. The toxins trigger an inflammatory response, which draws large numbers of white blood cells to the area and increases the regional blood flow. The final structure of the abscess is an abscess wall, or capsule, that is formed by the adjacent healthy cells in an attempt to keep the pus from infecting neighbouring structures. However, such encapsulation tends to prevent immune cells from attacking bacteria in the pus, or from reaching the causative organism or foreign object. Abscesses must be differentiated from emphysemas, which are accumulations of pus in a pre-existing rather than a newly formed anatomical cavity. The cardinal symptoms and signs of any kind of inflammatory process are redness, heat, swelling, pain and loss of function. Abscesses may occur in any kind of solid tissue but most frequently on skin surface (where they may be superficial pustules (boils) or deep skin abscesses), in the lungs, brain, kidneys and tonsils. Major complications are spreading of the abscess material to adjacent or remote tissues and extensive regional tissue death (gangrene). Abscesses in most parts of the body rarely heal themselves, so prompt medical attention is indicated at the first suspicion of an abscess. Treatments include: Antibiotics, Incision and drainage, Surgery may be used but normally as a last resort, Primary closure Abscesses are caused by obstruction of oil (sebaceous) glands or sweat glands, inflammation of hair follicles, or from minor breaks and punctures of the skin. Germs get under the skin or into these glands, which causes an inflammatory response as your body's defenses try to kill these germs. The middle of the abscess liquefies and contains dead cells, bacteria, and other debris. This area begins to grow, creating tension under the skin and further inflammation of the surrounding tissues. Pressure and inflammation cause the pain. People with weakened immune systems get certain abscesses more often. Those with any of the following are all at risk for having more severe abscesses. This is because the body has a decreased ability to ward off infections. There are a number of ways in which we can help our body to resist getting abscesses Maintain good personal hygiene by washing your skin with soap and water regularly. Take care to avoid nicking yourself when shaving your underarms or pubic area. Seek immediate medical attention for any puncture wounds. Especially if you think there may be some debris in the wound If you have one of the listed medical conditions The use of aromatherapy or complementary treatments can sometimes be beneficial. Essential oils diluted in carrier oils and used in a hot compress over the affected area or essential oils placed in the bath can sometimes help to relieve the symptoms. For dental abscesses then a hot compress applied to the face using Lavender and Tea Tree essential oils can sometimes help to relieve the symptoms whilst waiting to visit a dentist. The most effective oils for treating abscesses are Chamomile German, Chamomile Roman, Lavender, Tea Tree and Thyme Oils |
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