Boil on rear

I've had this for a couple of months. It's located pretty much at the top of the cheeks at the rear, just between the cheeks on the left side. It seems to enflame every so often and get big (and painful) I travel a lot on train to and from work, and sometimes can only sit if leaning forwards to be comfy. After a few days it seems to go down (but never gone completely) Sometimes it bleeds.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

You may have a cyst in that area which becomes inflamed.  This is not serious, but is certainly a pain . . .well, you know.

My advice is to try to keep the area padded when you travel (a "doughnut" pillow of the kid pregnant women use may help--try a surgical supply house.)  Apply a non-prescription antibiotic (bacitracin, neosporin) once daily.  Next time you see a doctor, get a proper diagnosis.  (Also, hot soaks may help, but please don't squeeze the bump--it just inflames it.)

Best.

Dr. Rockoff

[stepcap46]

I have the same exact thing as this patient.  Thanks to this site it has just saved me a trip to the ER and a lot of worring. Great site!!

[Weedy]

Me and my family members get boils all the time and we hate 'em!
Armpits, buttock, waistline, private parts, back, etc.
The Dr. gave u the best advice, hot baths and antibacterial cream.  (Sometimes we just can't help but squeeze them after it comes to a head, just to get it over with.)

[Weedy]

What usually works is using a hot (as hot as u can stand it w/o burning yourself)face towel compress until it cools down. Then apply antibacterial cream.  This will help bring the boil to a head and relieve some of pain.  You'll be surprised the next day