Emergency Abscess Treatment in Stockton, CA

Get Incision and Drainage Treatment at Our Urgent Care Centers in San Joaquin & Stanislaus Counties

An abscess is a pocket of fluid that collects under the skin in particular areas of the body. Also referred to as carbuncles, cysts and boils, an abscess is often painful, swollen and inflamed. If left untreated, an abscess can develop into complications such as scarring or sepsis. To treat an abscess, you will need a medical professional to create an incision to properly drain the fluid-filled pocket. 

Call (209) 224-8517 or contact us online today to schedule an appointment and learn more about abscess treatment in Stockton.

Understanding the Causes of Abscesses

An abscess most often occurs when bacteria is trapped under the skin, leading to an infection. Instead of simply fighting the infection, the body may contain the infection, building a pocket containing the invading pathogens and the white blood cells that are fighting the infection. As dead bacteria and white blood cells build up, the pocket can become large and inflamed. 

Blocked sweat glands, ingrown hairs, and foreign objects such as splinters or needles can lead to the formation of an abscess. Skin conditions, complications such as inflammatory bowel syndrome and diabetes as well as immune system disorders can also cause abscesses. 

Effective Treatment Options for Abscesses

You can resolve some small abscesses with a hot compress and antibiotics. However, most abscesses will need to be properly drained by a trained medical professional. Do not try to drain an abscess at home. The fluid in these pockets can have more bacteria and pathogens in them. If you drain the affected area at home, you could spread the infection to other areas of your body. A trained member of our medical staff can help prevent such complications. 

Why Choose Our California Urgent Care Center for Abscess Treatment?

Our trained medical staff can cut into and drain your cyst, boil or abscess. We have the experience to help prevent secondary infections and can properly treat the wound for healing. In cases where the abscess is large, one of our doctors can stuff the wound with sterile gauze to help drainage. 

Your Experience During an Abscess Drainage Procedure at California Urgent Care Center

At California Urgent Care Center, we prioritize your comfort and safety during the abscess drainage procedure. Here's what you can expect:

• Preparation: The area surrounding the abscess will be cleaned and sterilized to minimize the risk of infection. A local anesthetic will be administered to numb the area, ensuring you feel minimal discomfort during the procedure.
• Incision and Drainage: A small incision will be made in the abscess to allow the pus to drain. Gentle pressure may be applied to ensure complete drainage.
• Cleaning and Dressing: The wound will be thoroughly cleaned with an antiseptic solution. A sterile dressing will be applied to protect the area and absorb any remaining drainage.
• Post-Procedure Care: We will provide detailed instructions on how to care for the wound at home, including dressing changes and pain management. We may also prescribe antibiotics to prevent further infection.
• Follow-up: A follow-up appointment may be scheduled to monitor healing and ensure complete recovery.

Common Questions About Abscess Treatment

How is an abscess diagnosed?

A doctor can typically diagnose an abscess with a physical examination. They will look for a painful, swollen, red lump and may feel for fluid collection under the skin. In some cases, an ultrasound might be used to confirm the diagnosis and determine the size and depth of the abscess.

Is the incision and drainage procedure painful?

The area is numbed with a local anesthetic before the procedure begins, so you should feel minimal to no pain during the actual incision. You might feel a sensation of pressure as the abscess is drained.

Can an abscess come back after treatment?

Yes, an abscess can recur, especially if the underlying cause (like a blocked gland or ingrown hair) isn't fully resolved. Maintaining good hygiene and following all aftercare instructions can help reduce the risk of recurrence.

How can I prevent an abscess?

Practicing good hygiene, washing your hands regularly, and keeping skin clean can help prevent bacterial infections. Avoid squeezing or picking at boils or skin lesions, as this can push bacteria deeper into the tissue.

Come see us at our Lodi, Stockton or Manteca locations. Walk-ins are welcome, or you can contact us online or via one of our office numbers. 

• Lodi: (209) 267-2750
• Stockton (Pershing Ave): (209) 263-4090 
• Stockton (Lorraine Ave): (209) 885-7081
• Manteca: (209) 255-4762