A pilonidal cyst is a small, painful lump that forms near the tailbone. A hair follicle causes it to become blocked and infected. Here are ten treatments for pilonidal cysts that should help clear up the infection and get you feeling better! If you’re one of the unlucky few diagnosed with a pilonidal cyst, you’ll want to know about the treatments available. We will also go over pilonidal cyst concerns.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are commonly used as a treatment for pilonidal cysts. The small, round bumps can form under the skin, usually near the tailbone, and can be painful and sometimes become infected. Antibiotics can help clear up an infection and reduce the cyst’s size.
You can take antibiotics orally, although they may also be injected into the affected area. The length of treatment will depend on the severity of the condition. In most cases, antibiotics can successfully treat pilonidal cysts and prevent them from recurring.
Steroids
Steroids are commonly used as an anti-inflammatory medication to reduce the swelling associated with pilonidal disease. Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can form in the body when a foreign object, such as bacteria, enters a hair follicle or sweat gland. Steroids work by reducing inflammation and swelling. In addition, it can help to improve symptoms, such as pain and tenderness.
In some cases, steroids may also be used to help prevent the formation of new cysts. Steroids are typically injected directly into the cyst or taken orally. Side effects may include temporary weight gain, acne, and mood swings. Steroids should only be used as directed by a healthcare professional. Your healthcare provider should discuss steroid use before starting any treatment regimen.
Ablation
An ablation is a treatment option for a pilonidal abscess that may be less invasive than traditional surgery. Ablation involves using heat, light, or chemicals to destroy the tissue of the cyst. It can be done with a laser, microwave, or radiofrequency device.
Ablation is usually done as an outpatient procedure, so you won’t have to stay in the hospital overnight. In addition, the recovery time is generally shorter than with surgery, and there is less risk of infection. However, ablation may not be an option for all types of pilonidal cysts, so it’s important to talk to your doctor about your treatment options.
Phenols
Phenols are a class of chemicals with many applications, from disinfecting wounds to making plastics. Recently, phenols have also been investigated as a possible treatment for pilonidal cysts. Phenols work by dissolving the proteins that make up the cyst’s wall, causing it to collapse.
Phenols are a promising new treatment for pilonidal cysts, and further research is needed to determine their long-term efficacy. In addition, phenols help to kill bacteria and prevent infection. They also help to reduce inflammation and pain.
Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is a type of treatment that uses a focused beam of light to target a specific area. In the case of pilonidal cysts, the laser is used to target the cyst itself. Laser therapy works by causing the cyst to rupture and drain its contents. The laser also helps to kill any bacteria that may be present in the pilonidal sinus tract.
This type of treatment is relatively new, but it has already shown promising results in treating pilonidal cysts. Laser therapy is usually performed on an outpatient basis and only takes a few minutes to complete. Most people tolerate the procedure well, typically without side effects.
Cyst Removal
Cyst removal can be done in several ways, depending on the size and location of the cyst. Excision is the most common type of surgery to remove a pilonidal cyst. It involves making an incision in the skin over the cyst and removing the cyst and surrounding tissue. Cyst removal surgery can be an outpatient procedure, meaning you won’t have to stay overnight in the hospital.
Recovery from cyst removal surgery typically takes one to two weeks. You may have some discomfort and bruising around the incision site. Cysts that come back after cyst removal surgery are called recurrent pilonidal cysts. If you have a recurrent pilonidal cyst, you may need another cyst removal surgery or another type of treatment.
Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy, also known as cryosurgery, is a medical procedure that uses freezing temperatures to destroy abnormal tissue. Cryotherapy is commonly used to treat skin conditions such as warts, but it can also be effective in treating deeper conditions such as pilonidal cysts.
Cryotherapy can effectively treat pilonidal cysts because it helps reduce inflammation and kill bacteria. The procedure is typically performed in a doctor’s office or clinic, and the affected area is exposed to liquid nitrogen for some time. Cryotherapy is generally safe and well-tolerated, but it can cause side effects such as pain, swelling, and blistering. Therefore, Cryotherapy is most effective when combined with other treatments such as antibiotics or surgery.
Topical Treatments
Topical treatments are a standard first line of defense against pilonidal cysts. They typically come in the form of creams, ointments, or gels that are applied directly to the affected area. The most common active ingredient in these treatments is an antibiotic, which helps to kill the bacteria that can cause an infection. Topical treatments also often contain a steroid, which can help to reduce inflammation.
In some cases, a topical treatment may be used in conjunction with another type of treatment, such as oral antibiotics or surgery. However, speaking with a doctor before using any medication is essential, as some medicines can cause side effects. Nevertheless, topical treatments are generally safe and well-tolerated, making them a good option for people looking for a conservative treatment approach.
Home Remedies
Home remedies are a popular treatment option for pilonidal cysts. While there is no guarantee that home remedies will work for everyone, many people find that they can reduce the size of their cyst or even get rid of it completely using home remedies. Some of the most popular home remedies for pilonidal cysts include tea tree oil, witch hazel, or aloe vera for the area around the cyst.
Other people find that they can reduce the size of their cyst by taking warm baths or using a heating pad. It can help to reduce pain and inflammation, as well as soften the hair around the cyst. However, if you are considering using home remedies to treat your pilonidal cyst, you must talk to your doctor to ensure they are safe for you.Â
Marsupialization
Marsupialization is a surgical procedure for treating pilonidal cysts. It involves making an incision in the skin over the infected cyst and then marsupializing the cyst, which means stitching it open and creating a small pocket. The pocket is then filled with an antibiotic ointment and covered with gauze. The dressing is usually left in place for 24 hours and then removed.
The main advantage of marsupialization over other surgical treatments for pilonidal cysts is that it is less invasive, which means less risk of complications and a shorter recovery time. Marsupialization is typically done on an outpatient basis, meaning you can go home the same day as the surgery. In addition, marsupialization usually takes one to two weeks to heal, while other surgical treatments can take four to six weeks.
Conclusion
Pilonidal cysts are a common condition that can cause pain and discomfort. There are a variety of treatments available, both surgical and non-surgical. The best treatment for you will depend on your symptoms’ severity and preferences. If you have a pilonidal cyst, talk to your doctor about your treatment options to find the best one.
