When Should I See A Doctor About A Pilonidal Cyst?

Pilonidal cyst is a type of skin infection between the buttocks and the tailbone. It usually occurs when hair follicles and debris become trapped underneath the skin, causing a cyst or abscess. It is painful to sit and move around when a pilonidal cyst develops, and it can become infected and cause inflammation and pus drainage. In addition to being more common in men than women, they are often associated with activities involving prolonged sitting or pressure, such as long-distance driving or cycling. One can treat pilonidal cysts with antibiotics. One can also drain the cyst, or remove it surgically. So, it is important to know which doctor treats pilonidal cyst. 

Treatment options available for pilonidal cysts

Even though treatment can ease symptoms and prevent recurrences, some people may be more susceptible to developing pilonidal cysts and need to understand the pilonidal cyst causes so they can avoid them. It is, therefore, important to maintain good hygiene and avoid prolonged sitting or pressure on the affected area to reduce the chances of recurrence. Treatment options for pilonidal cysts can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Here are a few common options:

Antibiotics

To treat an infected cyst, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. Antibiotics may be given orally or topically, based on the severity of the pilonidal cyst infection.

Incision and drainage

Your doctor may recommend draining a large or extremely painful cyst, which will relieve the pressure and pain. This procedure can be done by making a small incision under local anesthesia and draining the cyst.

Excision

The cyst may need to be surgically removed if it recurs or is especially severe. Surgery possibly involves the removal of the cyst as well as some surrounding tissue to prevent a recurrence.

Laser hair removal

Pilonidal cysts can be treated effectively with laser hair removal if hair follicles are believed to be the underlying cause. Laser hair removal permanently destroys hair follicles, preventing future cyst formation.

Home care

Occasionally, minor pilonidal cysts can be treated at home using warm compresses and pain relievers. However, your doctor should diagnose and treat the cyst properly to prevent infection.

Which doctor treats pilonidal cyst, and when should you see one? 

It is always a good idea to consult a doctor if you are concerned about your health. The symptoms of pilonidal cysts can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Your doctor can help you determine the cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Some of the most common symptoms of pilonidal cysts include:

Pain and swelling in the affected area

It can cause pain and swelling at the top of the buttocks or the bottom of the tailbone if a pilonidal cyst is present.

Redness and tenderness

There is a possibility that the skin around the cyst will become red, warm, and tender.

Drainage of pus or blood

It may drain pus or blood if the cyst becomes infected, which can cause an unpleasant odor.

Hair protruding from the cyst

Sometimes, hair protrudes from a cyst, indicating a more serious infection.

Fever and chills

If the infection spreads, a fever, chills, and other flu-like symptoms may occur.

Recurrent cysts

A doctor should examine multiple pilonidal cysts in the same location to determine the underlying cause and prevent recurrences.

Complications

Among the complications of pilonidal cysts are abscesses, cellulitis, and sepsis, all of which can be serious and require medical attention.

Immune system problems

When your immune system is weakened by an underlying medical condition or medications, such as chemotherapy or steroids, you may be more likely to develop a pilonidal cyst that can cause a more serious infection. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should seek medical attention.

Difficulty with daily activities

To find an appropriate treatment plan, you should seek medical attention if the pain and discomfort of the cyst interfere with your daily activities.

Concerns about appearance

When it comes to pilonidal cysts, they sometimes can be unsightly and can cause embarrassment or discomfort. If you are concerned about the appearance of the cyst or the surrounding skin, it is important to consult a medical professional for advice.

Pain that persists or worsens

The underlying cause and proper treatment options should be discussed with your doctor if you experience persistent or worsening pain in the pilonidal cyst area.

Numbness or tingling in the legs or feet

If you experience these symptoms, you should visit a doctor to rule out any serious underlying conditions. Pilonidal cysts can sometimes press on the nerves in the lower back, causing numbness or tingling in your feet or legs.

Difficulty with bowel movements

It is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible if you experience difficulty with bowel movements due to pilonidal cysts growing large enough to obstruct the rectum.

Changes in the appearance of the cyst

Any changes in the pilonidal cyst's size, shape, color, texture, or color should be reported to a doctor to rule out serious underlying conditions.

Family history of pilonidal cysts

Those with a family history of pilonidal cysts may be more likely to develop the condition. It is important to know which doctor treats pilonidal cysts to discuss prevention strategies and treatment options.