Abscess Follow-Up
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.
An abscess is an area under the skin where pus (infected fluid) collects. An abscess is often caused by bacteria. You can get an abscess anywhere on your body. Your gauze packing has been removed and your wound is not infected.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Medicines:
- Medicines may help decrease pain or treat a bacterial infection.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Call 911 for any of the following:
- You are very sweaty, or your heart feels like it is fluttering.
- You feel faint or confused.
Return to the emergency department if:
- The area around your abscess becomes very painful, red, or swollen all of a sudden.
- You have blisters filled with blood, or your skin makes a crackling sound.
- You have a high fever or chills.
- You have pain in your rectum or pelvis.
Contact your healthcare provider if:
- Your abscess returns.
- The area around your abscess has red streaks or is warm and painful.
- You have back or stomach pain. You may have aches in your muscles or joints.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Continue to care for your wound as directed:
Carefully wash the wound with soap and water. Dry the area and put on new, clean bandages as directed. Change your bandages when they get wet or dirty.
Follow up with your doctor as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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