What remedies I can use at home to treat boils in armpits?
Armpit boils are caused due to bacterial growth in the hair follicle or sweat gland. These types of boils usually surface around the face, armpits and groin area. A blocked pore or gland with accumulated dirt, dust or sweat leads to pus formation. The pus formed later causes redness, swelling and pain. Armpit boils are particularly painful because they limit hand movement and brushing against the boil can worsen the condition. Gastrointestinal bacteria present in the bloodstream are known to cause such blockages, apart from wrong dietary habits that aggravate the boil condition.
Pus filled boils are best kept clean and dry to ensure speedy recovery. Pressing or squeezing can spread the infection and cause multiple boils. Therefore, it is important to keep the area clean and dry always. Simple home remedies can help treat the boils effectively. Alternate use of a hot compress followed by an ice pack helps increase blood flow and reduces infection. Applying a paste of turmeric powder and red sandalwood is also ideal to heal the boil. Gently swabbing the area with warm salt water swabs can help clean the area and reduce bacterial growth. Using clean towels and maintaining adequate personal hygiene helps reduce chances of boils.
Dietary habits are also one of the main causes that lead to boils or carbuncles. Reducing intake of sugars is helpful in reducing chances of boils and pustules. It is also important to increase intake of dietary fibers, whole grains, yogurt and dairy products which ensure natural goodness to skin and system health. Fresh fruits and vegetable juices are ideal foods to flush toxins and maintain healthy skin. Avoid carbonated drinks, tea, coffee and alcohol until armpit boil reduces. Maintaining adequate hygiene is also important to avoid such situations. If you are prone to excessive sweating it is advisable to take warm baths at least twice a day. This helps eliminate chances of dirt and sweat accumulating in hair follicles or glands. Avoid harsh skin care products such as soaps, deodorants until the boil subsides. This ensures chemicals do not aggravate the condition. It is also important to avoid tight fitted clothing and use comfortable cotton clothing until armpit boils subside. Boils usually take ten to fifteen days to heal and do not usually require a visit to the doctor. It is important to consult a medical practitioner if boils of any type are accompanied by fever.
