What is Pus?
Various forms of pus are produced when an inflamed area becomes infected. This process starts when a large amount of bacteria and necrotic tissue is engulfed by neutrophils and macrophages. These cells die, and a cavity is excavated in the inflamed tissue. This cavity contains necrotic tissue, dead macrophages and neutrophils, and tissue fluid. This fluid is referred to as pus, and eventually autolyzes and is absorbed into the surrounding tissues and the lymph.
Abscess
An abscess is a swollen, infected pocket of fluid in a body part. Antibiotic therapy is essential for abscess treatment. The choice of antibiotic depends on the bacteria involved and where the abscess is located. Your veterinarian may recommend sending a sample of the pus to a lab for a culture. The antibiotics must be given for the entire prescribed period and may include pain medication.
Abscess treatment depends on where it's located and the severity of the infection. Most abscesses are treated on an outpatient basis. Treatment involves surgical removal of the pus pocket or draining and flushing the affected area. It is also important to remove any foreign objects or bacteria that might be in the area.
Bleeding
Bleeding pus from a wound is one of the most common medical problems, and it can have many causes. Some abscesses are easily treatable, and some will heal on their own without treatment. Others, however, can be more serious and require medical intervention. Treatment may include medication, needle pricking, or surgery. If left untreated, abscesses can lead to complications such as sepsis and sinusitis.
When pus is discharged from an abscess, it is a sign that an infection has formed. The discharge is produced when the body's immune system fights off invaders. Sometimes, pus is a normal part of the healing process, and it's normal for the body to secrete it during an infection. However, if it persists or worsens, you should consult a doctor immediately.
Infections
Infections of pus can be very painful, but they are also treatable. The doctor will usually recommend an antibiotic for the infection. A surgical drain may also be used to help drain the pus. This can be attached to a suction pump or left in place. In some cases, the area can heal without any treatment, although a scar may develop.
Infections of pus are typically caused by bacteria. The bacteria responsible for the infection can make the pus smell very bad. Infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa produce this foul odor. If you notice a foul-smelling discharge after getting infected, you should immediately contact your healthcare provider.
Symptoms
The presence of pus in the body can be a sign of an infection or an ailment. Symptoms of pus may vary from one person to another. Some people develop pus around an injury or an open wound, but for others, pus may appear internally, deep underneath the skin, or around organs or tissues. In these cases, a medical examination is necessary to determine the cause of the infection or illness.
Pus may be present in the urine of people with urinary tract infections. When this happens, they may also experience fever, vomiting, or unexplained tiredness. Sometimes, the infection can even extend to the kidneys, which may result in dehydration. In most cases, a urinary tract infection is not life-threatening. However, if the infection spreads beyond the bladder, it can progress to an abscess.
Treatment
Treatment of pus is critical to the recovery of an infection. Pus is a byproduct of the immune system's fight against foreign invaders. It can be a symptom of infection and may be a sign of something more serious. If you have pus coming from your gums or teeth, you should see a doctor right away.
In most cases, a simple operation will drain the pus from an abscess. A local anaesthetic is used to make the procedure painless, though some abscesses may require a more invasive procedure. A tiny hole is made in the skin over the abscess and a tube is inserted to drain the pus.
