Definition:

An abscess is a localized infection on any part of the body or organ, whereby there is inflammation, swelling, pus formation, and painfulness, with or without other signs of infection.

Causes of abscess:

An abscess is essentially caused by infection, largely bacterial infection. It can also be caused by parasite infection. An abscess may be caused or triggered by a foreign body or physical trauma or injury.

Why does one get an abscess?

An abscess is a sign of the body's reaction to infection or trauma. It is a sign of the body's defense mechanism at work whereby an army of white blood cells starts fighting against the infection or foreign body and leads to pus formation. In this process, there will be inflammation, swelling, painfulness, and even fever.

Symptoms of abscess:

The most common symptoms are pain, swelling, redness, pus formation, discharge, and fever. Also, depending on the site of an abscess, some symptoms may vary. For example, in the case of an abscess of the brain, there will be neurological symptoms; and likewise. If the infection is severe and uncontrolled, there is a possibility of its spread to other parts of the body. Severer infection may lead to a serious condition called septicemia.

Treatment of abscess:

Conventional treatment: Abscess due to bacterial infection respond to antibiotics. In case of an un-ruptured pocket of pus, drainage may be required.

Role of homeopathy in the treatment of abscess:

Acute abscesses of recent origin can respond to homeopathic medicines; however, it may take a little longer than antibiotics.

Homeopathy is best indicated in the cases of 1. Frequent abscesses 2. Prolonged (chronic) abscess 3. Resistant abscess.

In the above three categories, the formation of an abscess is surely a sign of altered underlying immunity, which can be treated effectively using homeopathy.

Homeopathy is strongly indicated for recurring and resistant cases of abscesses. More reading: Case studies of Recurrent boils