Your Immune System

Boils-They Can Show Up Anywhere

Boils can be caused by any number of things, from an infected hair follicle to an infection through a cut or opening on the skin's surface. Often painful, boils can be very distressing-especially if they keep popping up on the body. Boils usually begin as little pink bumps on the surface of the skin, generally localized in one area. Soon, they develop into firm, hard, inflamed lumps filled with pus, becoming more and more painful until they finally burst.

Boils can appear anywhere on the skin, but there are some places on the body that are more prone to them. The neck, face, armpits, buttocks, and thighs seem to be the most common areas for boils to appear although they are also frequently found in places where there is a lot of hair and/or sweat glands. Areas where there is chaffing or friction caused by rubbing are also subject to boils.

Some People Are More At Risk For Boils

Anyone can develop boils or carbuncles, but those with diabetes, a suppressed immune system, poor hygiene, acne or other types of skin problems tend to be more susceptible. There are a number of treatments for people who suffer from boils. It remains basic that the one of the most effective ways to avoid boils is to take some steps to ensure good hygiene including washing the skin with soap on a regular basis; avoiding tight, chaffing clothing, treat cuts and abrasions quickly to avoid infection, and strengthen your body with a good diet and exercise.

The Immune System-Can It Be Strengthened?

The immune system is a remarkable facet of the human body and does an incredible job defending against disease-causing microorganisms. Sometimes the system fails, germs enter, and sickness overtakes. The idea of strengthening the immune system is a very popular concept and one we hear much about through the media. The immune system is a system and therefore requires balance in more than one area in order to be strong. At this time, there do not seem to be any scientifically proven direct links between lifestyle and enhanced immunity. However, interesting results are surfacing in connection with the effects of diet, exercise, age, psychological stress, herbal supplements, and other factors on immune responses in humans.

Boost The Body-Boost The Immunities

Despite the lack of hard scientific evidence, the first line of defense in protecting the immune system is choosing a healthy lifestyle. Some basic good-health guidelines will boost the entire body. Don't smoke. Eat a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains that is also low in fat. Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy body weight. Keep blood pressure in check, drink in moderation, and get enough rest. Avoid infection by frequent hand washing when preparing foods and cook meats thoroughly. Stay up-to-date on medical screening that is appropriate for age and risk categories.