Help, does any one know what an ingrown hair feels like?

I have a huge knot in my pelvic area that hurts like hell. My friend said it could be an ingrown hair, has anyone ever had one and does it hurt so bad? How long does it last and is there something I need to do? She suggested I put a heating pad on it and take hot bathes. I have done both, it is not red or anything just a huge knot. And to make matters worse, under my left breast I have broken out in a bad rash. I know it is from sweating, I feel like I have it under control. I am now a week away from surgery and don't want anything to interfere. Thanks for any help JC

Sorry JC I can't help you, but I hope someone can. Take care. Tina

Well Tina, a surgeon was able to help me. I went to see my pcp Monday and I had an absess, they started me on antibiotics and sent me to see a surgeon. Had to have surgery yesterday to open and drain the area. By Monday it was about the size of two golf balls. My surgery has not been postponed. Just don't know for how long now. Will post when I find out more. JC

The rash can be controlled with powder (I prefer Baby Gold Bond)... The lump could be anything... is it in the groin area (thigh meets pelvis)? Does it only hurt when you touch/press or also when you try to walk? It sounds like it could be an inflamed lymph node. It could also be an ingrown hair. I know usually those get red and look like a pimple, but sometimes when they are very deep, it doesn't surface and goes away in a few days. Heating pad and hot soaks for a couple days should help for either of the above causes. I would suggest that you call the doc to get seen if it doesn't resolve in a day or two. That way you know for sure it won't interfere with surgery. Good Luck!

Hi Kat, I saw my pcp Monday morning, I had an absess. Sent me to a surgeon and had it opened and drained yesterday. I promise you that was the worst pain I have ever had in my life. Feeling much better now. Thanks for your support. Oh by the way my surgery now has been postponed. I have to go and have the dressing removed and repacked Thursday and then I have another appt for f/u on Tuesday guess I will find out more then. JC