Boils Directory

A boil is a painful skin infection that usually begins in a hair follicle or oil gland. It will usually appear as a red lump that is filled with pus and debris. Boils often appear in areas of the body such as the armpits, neck, buttocks, eyes, and face. Boils can occur in anyone, but especially in those with a compromised immune system or poor hygiene. You should seek medical care if you have a boil. Doctors will often drain and boil and prescribe antibiotics. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about how a boil is caused, what it looks like, how to treat it, and much more.