Will a Hemorrhoid Go Away on Its Own?
Hemorrhoids might not seem like a big deal, but without proper care, some hemorrhoids can become serious health problems. Here’s when it’s OK to treat a hemorrhoid at home and when a medical visit is necessary.
What Causes Pilonidal Cysts?
Pilonidal cysts may not get a lot of attention, but they’re not rare — and without proper diagnosis and treatment, they can cause serious infections. Located at the top of the tailbone (coccyx), pilonidal cysts can cause pain whether you’re moving around or sitting still, and if they get infected, that pain can be intense.
As a top-ranked colorectal specialist in Deerfield Beach, Florida, Michael H. Tarlowe, MD, provides state-of-the-art care for patients with pilonidal cysts and abscesses, relieving painful symptoms and preventing complications. Here’s what he wants you to know about these painful cysts.
Quick facts about pilonidal cysts
A pilonidal cyst is a pocket of fluid that forms at the base of your tailbone. These cysts typically form from ingrown hairs that get trapped beneath the skin’s surface. In fact, the term “pilonidal” literally means “hair nest.”
Pilonidal cysts tend to be more common among males and among younger people, and they’re especially common among people who spend a lot of time sitting for work or recreation or as a result of mobility issues. The pressure from prolonged sitting is more likely to force hair “backwards” as it grows, resulting in the ingrowth that eventually leads to cyst formation.
Cysts are also more common among people who:
- Lead inactive lifestyles
- Are overweight or obese
- Have a dimple or cleft at the top of the buttocks
- Wear tight clothing
- Have poor hygiene that can lead to infection
If these risk factors pertain to you, it’s important to be aware of any lumps or bumps that could indicate a cyst, along with painful symptoms that can occur as a cyst grows or an infection develops.
Treating pilonidal cysts
Even though they can become infected, pilonidal cysts can’t be treated with antibiotics alone. Instead, they need to be drained and cleaned.
Dr. Tarlowe drains a pilonidal cyst by numbing the area with a local anesthetic, then making a tiny incision in the cyst. Next, he typically drains the pus and debris inside the cyst and packs it with gauze, leaving the wound open while it heals over the next few weeks. The approach he uses depends on your specific needs.
If you’re prone to pilonidal cysts, you can reduce the risk of recurrence by avoiding prolonged sitting, losing excess weight, wearing loose-fitting clothing, and being more active.
Don’t delay treatment
Even if a pilonidal cyst isn’t causing painful symptoms, these cysts can easily become infected, causing serious complications that can affect your overall health and wellness. If you suspect you have a pilonidal cyst or any type of unusual growth, it’s important to have it evaluated right away.
To learn more about pilonidal cysts and their treatment, call 954-210-7127 or book an appointment online with Dr. Tarlowe today.
You Might Also Enjoy...
5 Ways to Lower Your Risk for Colon Cancer
Colorectal cancer is common among both women and men, causing thousands of deaths each year. The good news: There are some simple things you can do to significantly decrease your risk. Here are five steps to take starting today.
8 Ways to Keep Your Anus Healthy
Your anus plays an important role in your health and wellness, yet — perhaps because of embarrassment — it often gets overlooked. Here, learn some simple steps you can take to make sure your anus stays healthy.
The Link Between HIV and Anal Fissures
Anal fissures are common and uncomfortable, and if you have HIV, your risk of fissures increases. Here’s how these two medical problems are related and what we can do to relieve your discomfort.
When a Hemorrhoid Needs Medical Attention
Hemorrhoids are a fairly common problem, and although many resolve on their own, some hemorrhoids need medical attention to relieve symptoms and prevent complications. Here’s how to tell when your hemorrhoid needs a doctor’s care.
Tips for Improving Your Gut Health
Gut health isn’t just about your gut — a healthy gut is important for overall health and wellness, too. These nine simple steps can help you maintain a healthy gut and support the rest of your body, too.