For most cases of boils, they can be treated quite easily from home. Generally people may get one small boil and will allow it to heal by using warm compresses and soaking the area in warm water. However, there are times when you may need to see a doctor for your condition. Here are some reasons why you need to see your doctor if you have boils.
Condition is not known
You may get a skin irritation and not know what it is—and for that reason, you may need to see a dermatologist or your family doctor. Your doctor can determine whether you have a boil or another type of skin problem. You must remember that boils start off as hard knots on the surface of the skin. If you have such a knot and find it painful, but it is not changing or healing, then see your doctor to determine what you have.
Boil is not healing
Another reason why you may need to see your doctor for boils is if you have one that is not healing. It may come to a head and only get worse, or it may burst open and become infected. If you are cleansing the area correctly and applying ointment to it, but find no change after several days then you need to call the doctor.
Pain in the area
If you are experience a lot of pain from the boil, then your doctor may be able to help you. There are some types of boils, especially those that form between the buttocks that may not heal even when you treat them at home. Those may actually require surgery. If you have this type of boil, then see your doctor. Your doctor will be able to recommend a course of action to get you on your way to healing faster and more efficiently.