I Have Got An Absess On Back Of My Neck

Posted on Mon, 15 Mar 2021

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 Answered on

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi,Ive got an absess on back of my neck.Iwas due to get it drained today by referal yesterday from a and e.I dischrged myself after 8 hr wait because something came upwhat are the chances of me being very ill untill i can get appt for it drained again.Ive just found out it can spred to spine or brain.will i get ill overnight

Answered by Dr. Hari Charan Perigela (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Pus has to be drained as soon as possible

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Abscess is collection of pus.It has to be drained surgically.
It doesn't spread to the Spine or Brain from the Neck.
If the pus is not drained, there will be more pain and fever develops in few.
You cannot become very ill.
Please consult a doctor and get it drained.Later, appropriate Antibiotic and Anti inflammatory tablets have to be taken.
Nothing to worry.
Hope I answered your query.If you have any questions,I will clarify further.
Wish you good health and speedy recovery
Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Hari Charan Perigela (50 minutes later)

Hi thankyou so much.Even though abscess had leaked blood and puss since sat morn.It has hole in it that keeps scabbing over.I should still be ok for few days till I can get it drained.Its on the back of my neck in middle

Answered by Dr. Hari Charan Perigela (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
It should be drained completely

Detailed Answer:
Hi
The pus has to be drained completely.The hole which is formed will be small and cannot drain the pus completely.So,a big incision has to be given and the wound should be cleaned with Betadine solution and keep the wound open.It heals in course of time.
Nothing to worry
Please consult a doctor and get it drained completely
Hope I answered your question
Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng