If you feel that you have soreness on your lower back specifically at the region of the tailbone, you cannot fail to seek medical attention because there can be many causes of this pain. It could be due to a situation known as pilonidal cyst but how can one tell the difference between this and other diseases? If you want to find out for sure that you have a Pilonidal cyst, then you have a long research ahead. It’s important to review the below-listed details and then look for the right approach to identifying if you have a Pilonidal Cyst or not. In addition, you may also know the importance of colorectal surgeon pilonidal cyst
A pilonidal cyst is a small swelling of the follicular type, located in the horizontal line of the natal cleft following the curve of the sacrum at the level of the coccyx. It occurs when the hair pierces the skin and clings to it and because of this a small pouch known as cyst is formed. At times, if the cyst is infected it becomes an abscess which is highly uncomfortable for the individual afflicted with it.
Pilonidal Cyst: Understanding the Signs and Symptoms
Pain and Discomfort: The prominent sign is discomfort in the lumbar region or adjacent to the coccyx. This pain is generally categorized as mild to severe, especially in cases where the pain increases when one is sitting or standing.
- Swelling and Redness: They can be painful, and the skin over the cyst might become warm, red, and sensitive when touched.
- Drainage: An infected pilonidal cyst may contain fluidal discharge that may be clear, cloudy, or may contain pus. The drainage may also smell bad.
- Fever: Sometimes the cyst can turn septic which can result in low-grade fever.
- Visible Pit or Sinus Tract: You may find a tiny pit in the skin where the cyst is, and it will have a dim appearance.
Comparing Pilonidal Cyst with Other Conditions:
However, it requires distinguishing a pilonidal cyst from other illnesses that may present similar signs and symptoms. undefined
Abscess: An abscess can be formed at any site of the body and so also the tailbone area. Various infections can cause abscesses and they are not necessarily linked with hair follicles as pilonidal cysts are.
Ingrown Hair: This may be due to a passage that occurs when the hair that has grown back curls and pierces the skin. Although they are related to hair, pilonidal cysts are more significantly larger and complex when in comparison with Ingrown hairs.
Fistula: A fistula in-ano more specifically means an ectopic fistulous communication between the intestinal tract and the skin of the perianal region. It can produce pain and discomfort, swelling, and pus similar to a pilonidal cyst, but it is usually situated more proximally to the latter.
Boils: It is evident that boils are small red, painful swellings that occur on any part of the skin including the ischeal region. They are inflammation of hair follicles that is due to bacterial infection.
Skin Tags or Hemorrhoids: Such symptoms as skin tag-like structures or hemorrhoids experienced especially in the anal region may cause discomfort and inflammation but these are not in any way related to cysts or drainage.
Focus on the Particular Signs That Warrant a Visit To the Doctor.
However, if you or someone you know is displaying features that may be associated with a pilonidal cyst or any other condition, one should not hesitate to consult with a doctor. An EBM professional should be in a position to tell you what is wrong with you just from your symptoms and the abnormalities he or she perceives during the physical assessment test. They might also rely on imaging procedures like ultrasound or MRI to have a peek at the region under consideration.
Treatment Options
Pilonidal cyst treatment is determined by its stage; it can range from a simple surgical operation to a complex one, though it is not obligatory. Options include:
- Warm Compresses: Ice packs must be avoided while warm compresses should be applied to the region for some time to minimize swelling and pain.
- Antibiotics: If the cyst becomes infected, the physician may further advise the patient to take specific antibiotics.
- Incision and Drainage: In the worst scenario, the pilonidal cyst colorectal surgeon may be required to intervene in the form of incision and removal of the cyst together with the infection and fluid.
- Surgery: Incodal cysts can present as recurrent lesions; in such cases, complete excision of the cyst and sinus tracts may be required.
Wrapping Up:
To distinguish if you are suffering from pilonidal cysts or if you have a different medical condition, you have to notice certain signs and or seek the services of a qualified physician. Pilonidal cysts although may be painful and tender, can be cured. If one continues to have pain or other symptoms around the area of the tailbone, it is advised to go see a colorectal surgeon pilonidal cyst near me to seek clarification on the issue and receive appropriate treatment when necessary. That is why seeking help is important when you experience discomfort to have the problem solved quickly to avert other challenges.
