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Symptom Checker

Boils in Children

A boil is a painful, pus-filled lump that forms under the skin. It usually starts as a red, tender area and becomes larger as pus collects.

Boils are most often caused by bacteria infecting a hair follicle or nearby skin. Staphylococcus aureus is a common cause. Friction, small skin injuries and some skin conditions can make infection easier to develop.

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AAP Guide to Boils in Children

The AAP guide below explains safe care at home, what changes to watch for, and when your child may need us to drain a boil.

AAP Symptom CheckerBoils

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When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • The boil is large, very painful or continues to grow.
  • The boil is on the face, near the spine or in another sensitive area.
  • Your child develops fever or spreading redness.
  • Boils keep returning or the area is not improving.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Your child appears severely ill or the infection is spreading rapidly.
  • Your child has any life-threatening emergency.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

More on skin and rashes

See the rest of this group and all 164 symptoms