Abscess is a number of pus collected in a cavity caused by some kind of infection or bacteria. An abscess is known as a tender and easily pressed mass of infected fluid with white blood cells and dead tissue. Abscesses can appear as a result of puncture wound in any part of the human body. However, the most common areas for abscess to appear are armpits, areas around vagina and anus, the base of the spine, in the groin or around a tooth. Usually abscesses can be caused by different minor breaks and skin punctures, obstruction of oil or sweat glands or hair follicles inflammation. The reason of them causing pain and irritation is that they contain bacteria, dead cells and other debris. The most common cause of abscess is bacteria called staphylococcus. It is important to know that infection reaches different human body organs via bloodstream; it can also penetrate the under-the-skin tissues via any infected bite or wound. The more prone to abscesses are people with weakened immune system. That is why abscess treatment information plays a significant role. Speaking about abscess it is important to take into consideration the possible abscess treatment methods. In case when abscess is small (less than half inch across) you can apply warm compresses on the damaged area for approximately thirty minutes three-four times a day. Be aware not to press the abscess to drain it; if you do this can push the infection into the deeper skin tissues. It is recommended not to puncture the abscess center with any sharp instruments because such action may cause the spread of infection or underlying blood vessels injury. Patients suffering from severe abscess cases should seek medical advice. Very often people are given antibiotics, but still the most efficient way to treat abscesses is a surgical one. The most widely spread abscess treatment methods are considered to be a drainage procedure and incision procedure. These procedures are usually performed to drain the abscess from foreign bodies, infection and pus inside of it. To allow the pus to drain out a slit into abscess is made. To allow the further drainage of pus the doctor may leave the packing in abscess for about one or two days. To reduce possible skin inflammation and speed up the healing process, elevation of the damaged area or warm compresses are, as a rule, advised. The mentioned abscess treatment methods have not only advantages, but also some insignificant side effects. For example, sometimes they may cause bleeding, allergic reactions or even new infections. That is why appropriate disinfection is pretty important. If antibiotics or the so-called over-the-counter pain medications are given you should be aware that they can only relieve the discomfort. They have such side effects as upset stomach, allergic reactions or rush. It is important to remember that abscess should completely vanish if the appropriate abscess treatment has been correctly performed. If you have any side effects you should report about them to your doctor.