Carbuncles develop as a result of a bacterial skin infection, usually from the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus. Carbuncles involve a group of hair follicles and other material, appearing as a swollen lump or mass under the skin. Carbuncles may develop anywhere on the body, but they occur mostly on the back and the nape of the neck. Carbuncles respond well to treatment and resolve on their own without complications.
Warm Wash Cloth
According to Medline Plus, carbuncles must drain before they can heal. Placing a warm moist cloth on the carbuncle helps it drain, and the moist cloth also accelerates the healing process. The Mayo Clinic recommends soaking the wash cloth in warm salt water before placing it on the carbuncle. Apply the moist wash cloth to the carbuncle for at least 10 minutes every few hours. Most carbuncle infections resolve on their own, usually within two weeks. However, a carbuncle can return several times for months or years after the first infection.
Medication
A doctor may prescribe antibacterial soaps to wash the area or antibiotic skin creams, according to Medline Plus. The doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics with any signs and symptoms of an infection. Symptoms of an infection include a fever, red streaks running from the affected area, excessive swelling around the carbuncle, or pain that gets worse.
Wash the Area
The Mayo Clinic recommends gently washing the carbuncle two to three times per day. Use antibacterial or prescription soaps to wash the area. After washing the area, apply an antibiotic skin cream and cover it with a bandage. Change the bandage after each wash and in between each wash if it gets soiled with drainage. Wash in hot--preferably boiling--water, any clothing, washcloths, towels, sheets and other items that come in contact with the carbuncle. Always practice good hand washing after touching a carbuncle or other items that touch it, because proper hygiene prevents the spread of the infection.
Medical Treatment
The New York Times Health Guide recommends contacting a medical professional to have the carbuncle drained if it has grown deep or if it covers a large area. Obtain medical treatment if the carbuncle lasts longer than two weeks, returns frequently or it occurs on the spine or in the middle of the face.
