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What causes multiple painful abscesses?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have suddenly developed many abscesses over a short time (4 in 2 months) for the first time in my life, at the age of 21. They are large, painful, oedematous, and red. For context, I use Reitzer’s pure glycerine soap to bath (perhaps it is not antibacterial enough?).

Additionally, I am under mild stress from medical school. I lost my brother five months ago which has resulted in a severe mental decline (perhaps weakening my immune system).

Please help.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Georges Hany Kozah

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Georges Hany Kozah is an experienced Lebanese Gynecologist with an MD from The Lebanese University Faculty of Medical Sciences (2016) and a Fellowship completed in 2022. Specializing in high-risk obstetrics, advanced ultrasound, oncology, colposcopy, and hysteroscopy, he combines expertise with a patient-centered approach. Passionate about women’s health, Dr. Kozah strives for excellence and optimal outcomes in collaborative, innovative care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your query and understand your concern.

Suddenly developing multiple large, painful abscesses over a short period (4 in 2 months) suggests an underlying issue such as:

Possible causes:

  1. Bacterial infection (Staphylococcus or MRSA (methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus)) – Staphylococcus aureus, especially MRSA, is a common cause of recurrent abscesses.

  2. Weakened immune system – Stress, grief, and lack of sleep can weaken immunity, making you more prone to infections.

  3. Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) – A chronic skin condition that causes recurring abscesses, especially in friction-prone areas.

  4. Poor wound healing or skin barrier issues – If your skin is dry or irritated, it may allow bacteria to enter more easily.

  5. Diabetes or other underlying conditions – Uncontrolled blood sugar can increase infection risk, even in young people.

What you can do?

  1. See a doctor for a culture test – A bacterial swab can confirm MRSA or other resistant bacteria.

  2. Consider a short course of antibiotics – If the abscesses keep appearing, oral antibiotics may help.

  3. Improve skin hygiene – While glycerine soap is gentle, you may need a mild antibacterial soap like Hibiclens (Chlorhexidine) or benzoyl peroxide wash.

  4. Boost your immune system – Sleep, nutrition, hydration, and stress management can help.

  5. Check for diabetes or immune deficiency – If infections persist, consider blood tests for glucose, iron, and immune function.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At April 18, 2025
Reviewed At April 21, 2025

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Georges Hany Kozah is an experienced Lebanese Gynecologist with an MD from The Lebanese University Faculty of Medical Sciences (2016) and a Fellowship completed in 2022. Specializing in high-risk obstetrics, advanced ultrasound, oncology, colposcopy, and hysteroscopy, he combines expertise with a patient-centered approach. Passionate about women’s health, Dr. Kozah strives for excellence and optimal outcomes in collaborative, innovative care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Georges Hany Kozah is an experienced Lebanese Gynecologist with an MD from The Lebanese University Faculty of Medical Sciences (2016) and a Fellowship completed in 2022. Specializing in high-risk obstetrics, advanced ultrasound, oncology, colposcopy, and hysteroscopy, he combines expertise with a patient-centered approach. Passionate about women’s health, Dr. Kozah strives for excellence and optimal outcomes in collaborative, innovative care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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