Hi, I'm a male and I have a question about these bumps on my bum. I started getting them about 2 years ago. I'd get one then it would go away, but scar. They are like pimples but don't look like they have anything in them and cannot be popped. Now I have about 4 - 5 little scars on each side of my bum. Just on the sides. I was wondering if it was acne or what? They kinda hurt once they get big, just like a pimple does. Any help you could give me would be GREATLY appreciated, so I know if it's contagious or not.
Thank You - J
Dear J:
Thank you for the e-mail.
This is a very common problem, which is usually caused by bacteria. It sounds like this is more than the "simple pimple."
A pimple is a pustule (small bump) on the skin.
A boil is a furuncle (larger bump) that is round, tender, pus-filled and raised on the skin.
A carbuncle is when a bacterial infection spreads and OTHER boils are formed.
IF this is a boil, it will be inflamed (red) and pus-filled, typically larger than a pimple and will have a yellowish tip. It will also be some-what hard centered and soft around it. There is a possibility that this may be infected hair follicles coupled with the bacterial infection (staphylococcus bacteria)
Symptoms of a boil include mild pain, localized swelling around the boil and itching. Boils appear suddenly. All of the sudden - THERE IT IS! And they are suddenly red and filled with pus. You may find that these boils heal in about 10 - 25 days.
Please do not pop this on your own because you could spread the infection, not to mention it will cause another scar. Sometimes these boils get very large and have to be lanced by a physician to release the pus.
If you go to a physician, more than likely he/she will prescribe an anti-bacterial prescription.
These pimples and especially boils show up in people who have a limited immune resistance. Those who are diabetic may also experience these annoying bumps.
They may also be caused by certain drugs, junk food, stress, poor hygiene, thyroid disorders, food allergies or toxic poo-poo.
For immediate relief, you can apply a hot compress to the area or take a "sitz bath." A "sitz bath" is where you sit in a tub of hot water about 6 or 8 inches high for about 20 minutes. Also, after you shower/bathe, make sure you thoroughly dry your bum. Hairy-bums have a higher probability of getting these bumps. Of course, it certainly doesn't mean hairless-bums are immune to these rascals.
An "Epsom Salts bath" is also Good for boils. About 2 cups of Epsom Salts to a hot bath. Sit in it for about 20 minutes.
Always make sure you use CLEAN towels.
Garlic is a natural antibiotic. If you are not allergic to Garlic, 2 capsules 3 - 4 times a day will boost your immune system.
You may read somewhere than it could be caused by a vitamin or mineral deficiency and I can tell you that there is no evidence to support this thought. Although, supporting your body with vitamins and minerals wouldn't hurt. Because your bum is subject to these bacterial infections, it does indicate that your immune resistance is low. Supportive multi-vitamins and minerals would be a plus.
I hope this helps. If you have any other questions on this subject or another. Please feel free to e-mail me.
A Bazillion Blessings~ Dr. Standley
**This web site's goal is to provide you with information that may be useful in attaining optimal health. Nothing in it is meant as a prescription or as medical advice. You should check with your physician before implementing any changes in your exercise or lifestyle habits, especially if you have physical problems or are taking medications of any kind.
Dear Dr. Standley (Pimples on the Buttocks)
Dear J: