Many people have never heard of pilonidal cysts and may not even be aware that they have them until the symptoms become more severe. If left untreated, infected pilonidal cysts can become dangerous.
What Are Pilonidal Cysts?
Pilonidal cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form at the base of the tailbone just above the cleft of the buttocks. At first, these cysts may be present but not cause any pain. As time passes, they will continue to grow and become painful, especially if you work in a job where you spend extended amounts of time seated.
What Causes Pilonidal Cysts?
There are a few different reasons why a patient may develop pilonidal cysts! Specialists believe that pilonidal cysts are most often caused by ingrown hairs or skin debris, but you may also develop these types of cysts if you experience blunt force trauma to that region. If hairs are ingrown, the body will create a cyst to try and expel it. The danger is that it could become infected, and that is why treatment is often necessary.
A few other potential causes of pilonidal cysts are:
Frequent bicycling.
Friction or pressure in the area.
Tight clothing.
Symptoms Of Pilonidal Cysts
Some common symptoms of pilonidal cysts are pain, a reddening of the skin at the area, draining pus, or foul-smelling pus. When cysts become infected, they are called abscesses, which can be very painful and require medical treatment.
Pilonidal Cyst Risk Factors
The risk factors of pilonidal cysts include people who sit for long periods, such as truck drivers and desk workers. These cysts also occur more often in young men (younger than 20). Obesity and an inactive lifestyle are additional risk factors, and those with excessive body hair or coarse hair may also be at a higher risk for pilonidal cysts.
How To Treat Pilonidal Cysts
Pilonidal cysts must be treated medically, or they can cause a significant amount of discomfort and danger in patients. There are a few different treatment options available based on the severity and frequency of your pilonidal cysts. For mild cases, one option is to make a small incision and drain the pus. The skin should then heal on its own.
Another option is to cut and drain the cyst and then remove any hair follicles to prevent reoccurrence. In some cases, the doctor may decide to cut and drain the cyst and close the wound. You can discuss these options with your doctor to decide which is best for you!
Preventing Pilonidal Cysts
Prevention is much easier than dealing with the cysts after they have formed. Some ways of preventing pilonidal cysts are:
Keep the area clean.
If you are obese, lose weight.
Try not to sit for long periods of time; take frequent breaks.
Avoid friction and tight clothing that could create the condition.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your colorectal specialist for a full exam and pilonidal cyst treatment in Tampa.