What causes recurring underarm boils, and how are they treated?
Ask the doctor
Q. I am getting recurring "boils" under my arms that I never had before. I've gotten about 14 over the last six months. I am just getting over having four large ones at one time under one arm. What causes this and how can it be treated?
A. Don't try to treat this yourself. You need medical evaluation to guide proper treatment.
"Boils" under the arms can be very painful. They may occur for several reasons. Possible causes are bacterial infection of the skin, irritation and infection of the hair follicles, and a condition called hidradenitis suppurativa.
Bacterial infections can lead to painful, red, draining "boils." Irritation of the hair follicles can be caused by using perfumed deodorants or shaving. This creates an entry for secondary infection. Certain strains of Staphylococcus can be especially problematic. They need to be treated with oral (by mouth) antibiotics.
Painful draining cysts or boils can also be caused by hidradenitis suppurativa. This recurring condition occurs in skin fold areas, primarily under the arms and in the groin. It is more common in women and tends to be worse in people who are overweight. It usually occurs between the ages of 20 and 40. (Starting after menopause is rare.) Initial treatment of flare-ups usually starts with one of the oral tetracycline antibiotics, sometimes combined with topical clindamycin.
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About the Author
Howard E. LeWine, MD, Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
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