Pilonidal Cysts
Pilonidal cysts are a common issue that can make sitting, standing, or moving uncomfortable. Fortunately, with accurate diagnosis, they are relatively straightforward to treat. At Healing Touch WoundCare, our team of wound care specialists brings years of experience in offering holistic and synergistic treatments for pilonidal cysts.
What Are Pilonidal Cysts?
Pilonidal cysts are round, swollen abscesses that develop at the base of the tailbone, just above the cleft of the buttocks. They occur when hair penetrates the skin and becomes embedded, leading to infection and a painful abscess.
While anyone can develop a pilonidal cyst, they are particularly common among young men and individuals who spend long periods sitting, such as pilots and truck or bus drivers. These cysts often recur.
Who Is at Risk of Developing Pilonidal Cysts?
Pilonidal cysts can affect individuals of all ages, genders, and races, but certain factors may increase your risk, such as:
Being male
Being obese
Leading a sedentary lifestyle
Working in a job that requires long periods of sitting
Having excessive body hair
You are also more likely to develop a pilonidal cyst if your hair is stiff or coarse.
What Are the Symptoms of a Pilonidal Cysts?
In the early stages, pilonidal cysts often show few symptoms. However, as the embedded hair becomes infected, you may experience:
Pain
Red or irritated skin
A foul odor
A sensation of warmth
As the cyst enlarges, you might also observe pus or blood draining from an opening in the skin.
How Are Pilonidal Cysts Diagnosed?
At Healing Touch WoundCare, diagnosing an infected wound starts with a thorough evaluation. This includes reviewing your medical history, conducting a physical exam, and performing diagnostic imaging and lab tests if necessary.
The wound is carefully examined to assess its type, severity, and size, as well as to identify any signs of infection.
How Are Pilonidal Cysts Treated?
Treating pilonidal cysts typically involves a straightforward in-office procedure. First, your Healing Touch WoundCare provider will numb the area around the cyst with a local anesthetic. Once the anesthesia takes effect, a small incision is made to drain the cyst.
In some cases, pilonidal cysts may recur, requiring a more extensive surgical procedure. After surgery, your provider may either leave the wound open or close it with stitches.
To promote healing, your provider might recommend hyperbaric oxygen therapy or topical treatments such as bioengineered skin grafts. For the best outcomes, adhere closely to your provider’s wound care instructions, change your dressings regularly, and take any prescribed medications as directed.
Why Choose Healing Touch WoundCare?
The Healing Touch WoundCare team is one of the few practices to offer specialized care for atypical wounds. Our staff can evaluate your wound to determine if it is atypical and provide comprehensive care solutions. We offer a wide range of therapies that can be used independently or in combination.
Our team of highly-trained providers will also teach you how to properly care for your wound at home. This includes demonstrating how to thoroughly clean the wound, protect healthy skin, and change dressings. If you think you may have an atypical wound, call Healing Touch WoundCare or book an appointment online today.
