Pus
Updated: 2024-03-12
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.