What is a Pilonidal Cyst?

A Pilonidal Cyst is a small pocket that forms under the skin containing a collection of hair and skin. Sometimes, the sac also contains fluid, appearing in the lower back or right above the buttocks. These cysts can appear above the tailbone and include a collection of infected hairs or skin, causing significant pain, especially when sitting.

Many men in America face significant embarrassment when it comes to Pilonidal Cysts, sometimes avoiding telling their healthcare provider until it has grown into a much more serious problem. In some cases, these cysts can become infected, growing into a painful experience that requires specialized medical care.

What Is a Pilonidal Cyst & Who Gets It?

Pilonidal Cysts have grown to become incredibly common among men, with tens of thousands of cases each year in the United States. 

Simply, a pilonidal cyst is a sac of hair and skin follicles that has grown under the skin. They can become very painful, growing larger in size, and running a risk of infection. Without treatment, they can challenge an individual’s ability to sit or work without discomfort. Women can also experience a pilonidal cyst, but it occurs far more frequently in men. Typically, these cysts are filled with a collection of dead skin cells and ingrown hairs, growing together into a painful red bump above the buttocks.

They continue to be a common problem for those who sit often, either in offices or in vehicles.

Those who face challenges with obesity or have a genetic disposition for rough hair throughout the body could also see pilonidal cysts more frequently. In some cases, extremely tight-fitting clothing can prompt a pilonidal cyst. In other cases, some people may be vulnerable due to their genetics as well.

Causes & Risk Factors

Pilonidal cysts can grow as a result of infected ingrown hairs that appear just above the buttocks. Should such hairs become infected, a cyst can quickly form under the skin, causing severe discomfort. While they may appear as a nuisance, they do pose a risk for greater health complications. In some cases, a pilonidal cyst can grow into a more complex abscess, requiring surgery and medication in the event you experience a serious infection..

Signs & Symptoms

Most individuals first notice signs of a pilonidal cyst when they experience pain while sitting. Typically, a swollen lump will appear somewhere around the top of the buttocks. It may appear as a red lump just above the crease of the buttocks and feel tender or painful when pressed on.

In some cases, the Pilonidal Cyst may swell and ooze, or grow in size. Spotting the symptoms early can act as an efficient way of addressing these problems before they require surgery.

Diagnosis & When to Seek Care

A healthcare professional can diagnose a pilonidal cyst as they are typically visible to the naked eye. When these cysts result in significant pain, swelling, or discomfort, it is time to seek out qualified care. In many cases, surgery for such medical conditions will call for ongoing wound care.

Treatment Options For a Pilonidal Cyst

Typical treatment of a pilonidal cyst calls for a healthcare provider to drain the cyst itself. Your healthcare provider will perform a small incision into the cyst, draining or removing its contents. Individuals will need to care for the wound after the procedure itself. This procedure can be done quickly in your doctor’s office without any kind of anesthesia. 

In some cases of persistent and recurring pilonidal cysts may require surgery. Each case is unique, and a healthcare provider can help you better understand the options available to you and which option is appropriate for your case. Some professionals may be able to perform an injection to reduce swelling or pain as well.

Preventative measures could include laser hair treatment or improvement in hygiene practices. Those who have a hereditary history of Pilonidal Cyst formation can explore ways of preemptively avoiding the creation of ingrown hairs in the buttocks area. Post-treatment, creating a clean and moist area for the wound to properly heal is essential.

Prevention & Self-Care Tips

Individuals can explore at-home remedies to reduce pain and swelling of a Pilonidal Cyst. Apply a hot and warm compress to the cyst itself several times a day, and avoid any other contact, including itching and scratching. Remain dedicated to regularly applying a hot compress as needed. 

Some over-the-counter nonsteroidal options can also work to reduce inflammation. Individuals can also look to improve their own hygiene in an effort to prevent these cysts from growing again. Explore hair removal options via laser hair removal treatment in an effort to preemptively address Pilonidal Cysts from forming.

Never, under any circumstances, attempt to drain or remove a Pilonidal Cyst at home.

Possible Complications From Pilonidal Cysts

Left untreated, Pilonidal Cysts can cause deep and painful abscesses that will require more complex medical care. In other cases, Pilonidal Cysts that have grown to cause great discomfort will require surgery. While each case is unique, leaving such cysts can lead to severe infection and reduce your ability to properly sit for long periods of time.

These types of health complications, while they may be embarrassing for some, are best addressed as quickly as possible. In some circumstances, prevention is the best possible avenue for addressing recurring Pilonidal Cysts. Look to your family doctor or other qualified medical professionals for guidance on all things related to Pilonidal Cysts, and explore options, including hygiene and proper wound care, to address these health concerns properly the first time.

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