Where is pilonidal cyst located

Walking and exercise can pull the hair farther into the skin. A cyst then forms around the hair and can become infected. Some cysts may be present at birth congenital. What are the symptoms? If a cyst gets infected called an abscess , you may have: Redness or swelling. Pus or blood draining from the abscess. Pain when you walk or sit. How is pilonidal disease diagnosed? How it is treated? You may need to have surgery excision to remove the cyst. Surgery may need to be done if: It gets infected again.

It doesn't heal after being drained. Your cyst has more than one opening. Cysts can come back after being drained. Surgery works better as a permanent cure. What can you do at home for a pilonidal cyst? While you are being treated for an infected cyst: Keep the area dry and clean. To prevent a pilonidal cyst from returning, avoid sitting for prolonged periods of time. You can also shave near your tailbone to prevent ingrown hairs in this area. Losing weight can also lower your risk, as well as keeping this area clean and dry.

Prognosis of Pilonidal Cyst A pilonidal cyst can be extremely painful, especially if it becomes infected. Draining the Cyst Treatment to drain a cyst is typically completed in the doctor's office or a same-day surgery center.

Rinse well to get rid of soap residue. Take frequent breaks if you have to sit for long periods. Don't wear tight clothing, as this can force hair down into the skin. Soak in a warm bathtub of water for pain relief. Laser hair removal may reduce the risk of recurrence. These include: 2, 16 Acne Folliculitis Tailbone injury Staphylococcus aureus infection Obesity Hidradenitis suppurativa. Favorite Organizations for Essential Pilonidal Cyst Information KidsHealth Although pilonidal cysts are more common among young men, it can affect children, too.

Cleveland Clinic Whether you need information on prevention, treatment, or diagnosis, the Cleveland Clinic gives a comprehensive overview of pilonidal cysts. Best Online Support Network Pilonidal Support Alliance If you have pilonidal disease, this website is an excellent place to learn more about your condition and receive support from a community.

Editorial Sources and Fact-Checking. Pilonidal Cyst: Overview. Mayo Clinic. November 21, Ngan V. Pilonidal Disease. Pilonidal Sinus. December 6, January July 6, Bascom J. Surgical Treatment for Pilonidal Disease. April 19, Pilonidal Cyst: Diagnosis and Tests.

Pilonidal Cyst: Outlook and Prognosis. Philadelphia, Pa. Accessed Aug. Pfenninger JL, et al. Pilonidal cyst and abscess: Current management. Marx JA, et al. Disorders of the anorectum.

Sullivan DJ, et al. Intergluteal pilonidal disease: Clinical manifestations and diagnosis. Pilonidal disease. American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons. Doctors think that pilonidal cysts form when loose hair and dead skin cells get trapped under the skin.

When we sit or bend, skin in the tailbone area stretches. This can cause hairs to break off. As a person moves, the broken hairs and dead skin cells can get pushed under the skin.

The immune system treats the hair and dead skin cells as foreign, and forms a cyst around them that fills with fluid. Treatment for a pilonidal abscess depends on how severe the infection is. Home care with sitz baths and warm compresses can treat mild infections.

If home care doesn't work or the infection is more serious, doctors might make a small cut to drain the abscess. They might prescribe antibiotics if the infection spreads to skin around the cyst.