Can a pilonidal cyst go away on its own?

Pilonidal cysts sometimes drain and disappear on their own. If you have chronic pilonidal cysts, your symptoms may come and go over time.

What does a pilonidal 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.

Why do I have a lump at the top of my bum?

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.

How do you treat a popped 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. The heat will help pull out the pus, allowing the cyst to drain.

Can you live with a pilonidal cyst?

Only those whose body hair has burrowed deep into the pilonidal sinus and breached the cutaneous barrier will result in a foreign body reaction. Many can live a lifetime with a pilonidal sinus without PSD, even if they are hirsute.

How long do boils on buttocks last?

In most cases, small boils on the buttocks will heal on their own within 1 to 2 weeks. Home remedies may help speed up the recovery process. Boils that are getting larger, not healing on their own, causing other symptoms, or are recurrent may require drainage or more extensive treatment.

When should I see a doctor about a pilonidal cyst?

See your doctor if the scar becomes swollen, red and warm. You may help heal the infection and prevent it from happening again by: keeping the area clean and dry. using an antibacterial soap and making sure all soap is removed after cleaning.