To calm a pilonidal cyst at home, use warm compresses and sit in a warm bath to encourage drainage and reduce pain, take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, keep the area clean and dry, and avoid sitting for long periods; however, see a doctor if it doesn't improve, as professional drainage or other procedures are often needed for complete resolution.
Key Takeaways
Though pilonidal disease is considered to affect predominantly men, it does occur in women as well, especially during pregnancy [2].
The treatment for pilonidal cysts and sinuses varies from child to child, depending on the symptoms, and may include antibiotics, incision and drainage, and/or surgery. Antibiotics: If your child presents with an infected cyst or abscess, antibiotics may be necessary to treat the infection.
The cause of most pilonidal cysts is loose hairs that puncture the skin. Friction and pressure from rubbed skin, tight clothing, cycling or long periods of sitting can force hair into the skin. The body creates a cyst around the hair to try to push it out.
Prolonged pressure by sitting directly on the area for a long time, or bouncing in a vehicle can drive hair, bacteria and debris deeper into the tissues through the open pits. This usually results in a flare up (deep infection) or abscess formation.
Genetics – Genetics play a significant role in the formation of cysts. If you have a family history of certain types of cysts, such as sebaceous or epidermoid cysts, you may be more likely to develop them. These hereditary cysts are often harmless but can become problematic if they grow large or become infected.
Pilonidal disease is common in teens and young adults. It happens when the pilonidal sinus between the buttocks gets infected. This can happen because of many things, like poor hygiene, sitting too long, or being overweight.
Wash and irrigate the wound with liquid soap and water twice a day. Pat dry the wound and apply antibiotic ointment such as Fucidin or Bacitracin twice a day. Cover with a dry gauze. Continue this care until the skin closes.
Anyone of any age can develop a pilonidal cyst, but they're most common in men ― especially men in their late teens to early twenties. The good news is that most people will eventually outgrow their cysts. Rarely do we see anyone older than 45 or 50 years old still with symptoms from a pilonidal cyst.
Men, especially those between 20 and 35, are at particular risk. Being overweight or wearing tight clothing also increases your chances of developing this painful cyst. Pilonidal cysts aren't contagious, but they may be influenced by family traits. For example, if rough hair runs in your family, you're at risk.
I had a pilonidal cyst many years ago. While it was excruciatingly painful (I seriously thought I broke my tailbone until I went to the doctor and they checked it out) and surgery wasn't exactly a walk in the park, it in no way compared to childbirth.
Ovarian cysts usually don't cause any problems during pregnancy. Most cysts stay stable in size or become smaller and eventually go away during pregnancy. Some cysts can become larger. The two main concerns are if a cyst ruptures or twists on itself, which is called ovarian torsion.
Pilonidal Disease and the Pain Scale
An infected pilonidal cyst may become quite inflamed and tender. There may be a good deal of pressure on the swollen, stretched skin, and the cavity may fill with pus. The worse the condition gets, the higher up the pain scale you'll move.
After cleaning the cyst, hold a warm compress on the area for five to ten minutes. The moisture and the warmth help to encourage the substance trapped under the skin to make its way out of the hair follicle. Repeat this process up to three times per day until the cyst drains on its own.
This Is Temporary Relief
These steps can help manage pain or swelling and keep you comfortable until your appointment, but they won't cure the cyst. Warm compresses, pain relievers, and good hygiene are only stopgaps—they can't eliminate the problem or stop it from progressing.
Pilonidal disease is caused by plugged hair follicles in the crease between the buttocks. Any type of hair can cause problems, but the most troublesome is coarse, thick hair. The plugged follicles may rupture into the deeper skin, creating an indentation, or pit, in the skin.
Wash the lump and surrounding skin well with soap. Apply warm, wet washcloths to the lump for 20 to 30 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day. If you prefer, you can also use a hot water bottle or heating pad over a damp towel. Be careful not to burn your skin.
If it becomes infected, it may exude pus and blood and emit a foul smell.
If your pilonidal cyst is causing persistent pain or discomfort, it's an indication that you should have it evaluated. The level of discomfort can vary from person to person, but if you're bothered by your cyst — seek care.
Pilonidal cysts are unlikely to resolve without treatment. They can actually worsen over time, especially with friction, pressure, or poor hygiene in the area. What starts as a small lump can become a painful abscess or chronic condition if left untreated.
Treating and preventing pilonidal cysts from recurring
Most cysts are benign. Tumors and neoplasms can be benign or malignant. Cysts are sacs or pouches filled with air, fluid, pus, or tissue. Tumors and neoplasms are made up of abnormal cells.
Vitamin D plays an important role in joint health and recovery, and deficiency may increase the likelihood of cysts forming. Maintaining healthy vitamin D levels through sunlight, diet, supplements or UV lamps can support healing and reduce future risk.