What Causes Large Reddish Boil On Armpit?

Posted on Wed, 23 Mar 2016

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

Wed, 23 Mar 2016 Answered on

Mon, 30 May 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : I have a large red like boil under my armpit. I thought it might be an infected hair. Ive been treating it like a pimple and putting hot compresses on it but its not gotten better and it is very sensitive.

Answered by Dr. V. N. S. Parinam (43 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Staphylococcal furuncle

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

You seem to have furuncle which is a hair follicle infection. YOu need an oral course of antibiotics like Amoxycillin to completely treat it. Staphylococcal skin infections spread easily to other areas hence require oral course. I suggest you to visit a RN or any clinic for a prescription of the same. Hot compresses are ok but not the complete treatment choice.

Let me know if you have other queries.

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar