Pus

Description

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.

Self-care

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.

When to seek immediate medical 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 make a doctor's appointment

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.