Pilonidal Cyst infection: What You Need to Know

A pilonidal cyst refers to a pocket in your skin filled with skin debris and hair. This kind of cyst is often situated near one’s tailbone in the upper portion of the buttocks. It generally occurs when hair punctures and becomes embedded within the skin. A pilonidal cyst infection can be excruciatingly painful. We will discuss everything that’s important to know about it below.

What is the cause of a pilonidal cyst infection?

Ingrown hair that is present near the crease of the buttocks causes pilonidal cyst infection. A pilonidal cyst can result in a sinus cavity or an abscess if left untreated. This can be a sign telling that your condition is worsening.

What are the symptoms of a pilonidal cyst infection?

You can experience the following symptoms if you have a pilonidal disease.

• Swelling, redness, and pain at the bottom of your spine

• Blood or pus draining from it.

• Foul smell from the drainage.

• Tender to touch.

• Fever

Who is at risk of developing a pilonidal cyst?

You can develop a pilonidal cyst if you-

 

• have a family or personal history of problems similar to boils, acne, folliculitis, along with sebaceous cysts.

• have thick hair growth near the tailbone.

• sit for long periods at work or home.

• suffer from obesity.

Diagnosis of a pilonidal cyst

Doctors who treat pilonidal cysts first diagnose them through a physical examination. For instance, if you complain of irritation or pain near your tailbone, your doctor will thoroughly examine the crease of the buttocks. It can appear first as a pimple or a cyst that oozes pus and blood. In addition, before carrying out a pilonidal cyst surgery, your doctor can recommend some tests to check for pilonidal cysts underneath the skin.

Treatment for pilonidal cyst

The most common treatment for pilonidal cysts is drainage after incision. During this procedure, the doctor will remove any hair or follicles that are present in the skin and drain the cyst of any fluid. They will then cover the wound with gauze. The doctor might also close the area off with some stitches.

Recovery from a pilonidal cyst

The doctor will advise to keep the area clean and to look for any signs of infection. There can be some complications that include the formation of an abscess, the coming back of the cyst or an infection that spreads throughout your body.

 

We have discussed pilonidal cyst causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. It would be best to consult a doctor as quickly as possible if you have a pilonidal cyst infection to get treatment quickly and on time.

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