Can a pilonidal sinus heal on its own?
If people have a pilonidal sinus, they may have discomfort and irritation around the tailbone area. In some cases, a pilonidal sinus may resolve by itself, but people may require treatment, such as abscess drainage or sinus removal.
How long does pilonidal sinus take to heal?
How long will the effects last? The wound will need 1 to 2 months to heal. In some cases it may take up to 6 months to heal. A problem called complex or recurrent pilonidal disease is a complication of a pilonidal cyst.
What happens if you leave a pilonidal sinus untreated?
If it’s not treated, a pilonidal cyst can possibly lead to an abscess or a sinus cavity. Those are both signs that the skin infection is getting worse.
What happens if pilonidal cyst goes untreated?
If left untreated, the cyst can drain pus or other fluids, or develop a pilonidal sinus, which is an opening that grows under the skin from the hair follicle. Some of the most common symptoms of a pilonidal cyst infection include skin reddening, pain, and draining of blood or pus.
How do you treat a pilonidal cyst wound?
Incision care
- Wash the area daily with warm, soapy water and pat it dry. Don’t use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, which can slow healing.
- You may cover the area with a gauze bandage if it weeps or rubs against clothing. Change the bandage every day.
- Keep the area clean and dry.
Can I pop my own pilonidal cyst?
Keeping the Site Clean One of the biggest concerns with a pilonidal sinus that pops at home is the risk of spreading infection. This is why you should never intentionally pop a cyst at home, and you should try to seek medical attention before yours bursts spontaneously.
Can I squeeze a pilonidal sinus?
Can I pop it? A pilonidal cyst can look similar to a pimple, tempting some to pop them with their fingers. But popping a pilonidal cyst won’t fix the problem. Remember pilonidal cysts are filled with hair and other debris in addition to pus, and you won’t be able to get it all out by squeezing.
How do you dress a pilonidal wound?
Typically, after open pilonidal sinus excision, daily dressing of the surgical site involves cleaning the wound with a normal saline solution and filling it with moist sterile gauze.
Can I cut my own pilonidal cyst?
The only way to get rid of a pilonidal cyst is through a minor surgical procedure. But there are a few things you can do at home to ease pain and discomfort in the meantime. Try applying a hot, wet compress to the cyst a few times a day.