What does a tailbone cyst look like?
A pilonidal cyst looks like a lump, swelling, or abscess at the cleft of the buttock with tenderness, and possibly a draining or bleeding area (sinus). The location of the cyst at the top of the buttocks makes it characteristic for a pilonidal cyst. If infection is severe, blood tests may be performed for diagnosis.
What does it mean when you have a bump on your tailbone?
A pilonidal (pie-low-NIE-dul) cyst is an abnormal pocket in the skin that usually contains hair and skin debris. A pilonidal cyst is almost always located near the tailbone at the top of the cleft of the buttocks. Pilonidal cysts usually occur when hair punctures the skin and then becomes embedded.
Are pilonidal cysts life threatening?
Although a pilonidal cyst is not life-threatening itself, it can become more difficult to treat and turn into a chronic condition if you don’t quickly seek help. That’s why it’s important to get an exam at the first sign of any symptoms of a pilonidal cyst.
How do I know if my pilonidal cyst is infected?
The signs of an infection include:
- pain when sitting or standing.
- swelling of the cyst.
- reddened, sore skin around the area.
- pus or blood draining from the abscess, causing a foul odor.
- hair protruding from the lesion.
- formation of more than one sinus tract, or holes in the skin.
Will Epsom salt help a pilonidal cyst?
Treatment and surgery Regular salt baths (Epsom salt), dry dressings and hair removal are important in healing of the wound. After a simple drainage of the pilonidal abscess a portion of patients may develop further symptoms, including discharging pus from the pilonidal sinus and recurrent pilonidal abscess.
When should I see a doctor about a pilonidal cyst?
What are the symptoms of a pilonidal cyst? Quickly get medical attention if you notice any of these symptoms: Pain which often gets worse when you’re sitting. A small dimple or large swollen area between your buttocks.