> Fun ways to get fit

> Training for success

> Smokers get their way

> SA tests HIV concoction

> Stem cell awareness

> Safeguard your heart

> Saying sorry works

> Time to detox...

> Smoke-free cigarettes

> Swine flu not mutating

Today, 09 February 2010

› Strike three, Mr President

› Cooked head discovered

› Zuma apology 'unwelcome'

› 'Illegal' traps blasted

› Madiba to grace Parliament

Yesterday, 08 February 2010

› No credit to FW - Zuma

› Zapiro revives showerhead

› 'Our president has failed'

› Praise for Amla

› 'Zuma should be forgiven'

Question

I have recently developed a boil for the first time at the age of 38. what causes boils and how should they be treated?

Answer

The most common reason for boils is a bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus which lives on our skin. Certain conditions, such as shaving leg or under-arm hair, can lead to this bacterium getting into the hair follicles and a boil develops.

They are generally best left alone, although boil plasters and moist heat can help them to "point" at which stage they should burst and drain spontaneously.

In simple cases antibiotics are not required.

MORE SKIN DISORDERS Q&A'S
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