Pus

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Thick white or yellow fluid that often is caused by an infection with germs and is made of white blood cells, waste from dead cells and thin liquid.

Description

For a lump filled with pus, apply a warm washcloth up to 15 minutes a few times a day. If pus leaks, clean it off the area and cover the lump with a sterile bandage or gauze.

Self-care

See a healthcare professional right away if pus appears along with:

• A lump that is very painful or hot.
• Swelling that spreads away from a lump.
• Fever and chills.
• Loss of weight and appetite.
• Extreme tiredness.

When to seek immediate medical care

See a healthcare professional if pus leaks from a lump that:

• Feels tender or looks swollen.
• Appears red, which can be harder to see on brown or Black skin.
• Grows bigger.
• Lasts longer than two weeks.

, When to make a doctor’s appointment