Understanding Heat Boils (Baltod): Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Professional Care

Heat boils — or baltod, as they are commonly known — are a frequent skin concern, especially in hot and humid climates. They occur when bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus infect hair follicles or oil glands, leading to painful, pus-filled lumps. While they are usually harmless, untreated or recurring boils can cause discomfort, spread infection, and even indicate underlying health conditions.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through what causes heat boils, how to treat them, ways to prevent them, and when to seek professional dermatological care.

What Are Heat Boils (Baltod)?

A heat boil is a deeper form of folliculitis, an infection of the hair follicle where pus accumulates beneath the skin. These lesions start as red, tender bumps and gradually develop a yellowish or white head before draining naturally. They can occur anywhere on the body but are more common on areas prone to sweat, friction, or poor ventilation such as the neck, armpits, thighs, and buttocks.

Causes of Heat Boils (Baltod Kyu Hota Hai?)

While anyone can get a heat boil, certain factors increase the risk:

Bacterial Infection: Usually caused by Staphylococcus aureus, a bacterium naturally present on the skin.
Pulling of Hair
Blocking of pores due to oil massage.
Skin Injuries: Cuts, insect bites, or skin abrasions provide entry points for bacteria.
Poor Hygiene: Infrequent washing, sharing personal items, or not cleaning sweat can encourage bacterial growth.
Excessive Sweating: Traps dirt and bacteria, increasing the chance of infection.

Common Symptoms

Recognizing early signs helps speed up healing. Symptoms often include:

Red, swollen, and tender bump on the skin
Warmth and increasing pain in the affected area
Formation of a pus-filled head
Fever, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes in severe cases

Baltod Ka Ilaj (How to Treat Heat Boils)

At-Home Care for Mild Boils
If the boil is small and not causing severe discomfort, home remedies can help:

Apply warm compresses for 10–15 minutes, 3–4 times a day to promote drainage
Keep the area clean with antibacterial soap
Avoid squeezing or popping the boil to prevent the spread of infection

Medical Care for Severe or Recurrent Boils
If the boil is large, extremely painful, or accompanied by fever:

Incision & Drainage: A doctor can safely remove the pus to reduce infection risk
Antibiotics: Prescribed for bacterial control, especially in recurrent or large boils
Lab Tests: To check for antibiotic-resistant bacteria like MRSA

How a Professional Dermatologist Can Help

While many heat boils heal on their own, visiting a dermatologist offers significant benefits — especially if you have recurring or severe boils:

Accurate Diagnosis: A dermatologist can confirm whether it’s truly a boil or another skin condition with similar symptoms.
Targeted Treatment: They can prescribe the right antibiotics or topical treatments to speed up healing.
Prevention Guidance: Dermatologists can identify underlying issues like diabetes, hormonal imbalances, or immune deficiencies that may be causing frequent boils.
Minimising Scarring: Professional drainage and aftercare reduce the chances of permanent marks.
Safe, Sterile Procedures: Ensuring infection does not spread to other areas of the body.

Prevention Tips to Avoid Heat Boils

Maintain good personal hygiene and bathe daily, especially after sweating
Wear loose, breathable clothing to reduce friction and sweat accumulation
Treat small cuts or wounds immediately with an antiseptic
Avoid sharing towels, razors, and personal care products
Keep chronic health conditions under control with regular check-ups

How to Get Rid of Heat Boils Quickly

The fastest and safest way to get rid of a heat boil is through professional drainage by a dermatologist. This reduces pain, speeds up healing, and lowers the risk of scarring or recurrence.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

You should see a doctor if:

The boil worsens or does not heal after a week of home care
There is spreading redness, severe swelling, or fever
The boil is located near sensitive areas like the face, spine, or genitals
You experience frequent recurrences despite preventive care

Key Takeaway

Heat boils (baltod) may be common, but they shouldn’t be ignored — especially if they recur. By maintaining good hygiene, addressing underlying health issues, and seeking timely professional care, you can treat them effectively and prevent future outbreaks. If you’re dealing with stubborn or painful boils, consult a qualified dermatologist for safe and lasting relief.

FAQs About Heat Boils (Baltod)

1. Why do we get heat boils on the skin?

Heat boils are usually caused by a bacterial infection, most often Staphylococcus aureus. They can develop when bacteria enter the skin through cuts, insect bites, or blocked sweat glands, especially in hot and humid climates.

2. Does a boil on the skin go away on its own?

Small boils may drain and heal without treatment in 1–2 weeks. However, larger or painful boils may need medical drainage and antibiotics to prevent complications.

3. How do I stop getting boils?

Maintain good hygiene, keep your skin clean and dry, wear loose-fitting clothes, avoid sharing personal items, and treat skin injuries promptly to reduce the risk of recurring boils.