Is having pus-filled sores on the lower leg related to hygiene habits?
Jul 30, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
If the skin on the lower leg is not cleaned for a prolonged period, sweat and dirt may accumulate and promote bacterial growth. Additionally, failure to promptly treat the skin after contact with contaminated water or objects may lead to infection and abscess formation at sites of skin damage. These situations are related to personal hygiene habits. If the abscess is caused by underlying conditions such as diabetes that reduce skin resistance, or results from an allergic reaction to insect bites followed by secondary infection.
Generally, cases of abscesses on the lower leg caused by inadequate hygiene or contact with contaminants leading to infection are related to personal hygiene habits. However, when abscesses occur due to a weakened immune system or other underlying diseases, they are unrelated to hygiene. If you have concerns, it is advisable to seek medical consultation early. Detailed explanation is as follows:
If the skin on the lower leg is not cleaned for a prolonged period, sweat and dirt can accumulate and promote bacterial growth. Alternatively, failure to properly treat the skin after contact with dirty water or contaminated objects may lead to infection and abscess formation at sites of skin damage. These situations are related to hygiene habits.
If abscesses are caused by underlying conditions such as diabetes, which reduces skin resistance, or by allergic reactions following insect bites that secondarily become infected, they are not caused by poor hygiene and may still occur even with good hygiene practices. These cases are unrelated to hygiene habits.
When an abscess appears on the lower leg, the affected area should be promptly cleaned and disinfected, without squeezing, and the skin should be kept dry and clean. If abscesses recur or increase in size, timely medical evaluation is necessary to identify the underlying cause and provide targeted treatment.
