What is Pus?

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What is Pus?
When a part the body gets infected with some type of bacteria, it may form some yellowish or whitish exudate just under the skin. This exudate is called “pus” and it is the body’s reaction to certain bacterial infections. It is the body’s way of making the white blood cells work and attack the infectious organism.

The exudate or yellowish liquid produced during a bacterial infection has a sticky texture and is actually a mixture of skin cells that are already dead, white blood cells that fight the infection, and the bacterial organism that caused the start of inflammation. Once there is pus, then a body part is said to have an infection.

Most infections that cause pus formation are secondary to exposure to the bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus. This bacterial strain is actually present in various parts of our skin but in minimal quantities. It is when people get wounds and cuts that this particular bacterial strain may attack the cut or wounded area and stimulate the inflammation process, causing pus formation later. Another condition common to people with regards to pus formation are pimples. Many people get to experience pimple breakouts especially during the puberty and adolescent stages. It is during these times that some red bumps or nodules will develop pus making the pimple even more painful. In this type of pus formation, most people are just advised on proper hygiene and perhaps some dietary modifications.

But for instances that pus formation results to a very large bump or even a very large excavation on the skin, like abscesses, medication may be necessary. There are also conditions wherein the formation of pus persists for long periods and may even spread to cells underneath the skin. These conditions also require immediate medical attention as some may lead to infections to the blood, which is very serious.

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