What happens if a pilonidal cyst is untreated?

Pilonidal disease is a skin issue that affects the part close to your buttocks’ creases. Initially, you will find a pimple-like structure, which later becomes a complicated cyst. It causes infection because of the growth of harmful bacteria. It also contains debris and dirt with hair follicles. 

An infected sinus can cause swelling and redness at the affected site. From obesity to excessive body hair, different factors lead to this condition. But, do you think pilonidal cysts will go away naturally? Some people have a wrong conception that it heals on its own. However, in most cases, you need surgery to remove pilonidal cyst.

Let us now discuss the impact of untreated pilonidal cysts.

What happens when you delay pilonidal cyst treatment?

Some patients only rely on natural home remedies to heal the condition. However, without proper medical treatment, they will experience different issues.

1. Pus-filled abscess formation

If you have severe pilonidal cyst infection, it leads to abscess development. This condition causes swelling and makes you feel pain. The blood or pus draining from your skin’s abscess emits a foul odor. It will frequently ooze out of your pilonidal cyst. Moreover, the sinus with an abscess issue needs surgery for drainage. It will prevent infection from spreading to other body parts.

2. Swelling and inflammation at the affected site

Infection at the pilonidal cyst will cause inflammation and swollen skin. You will also experience intense pain when you stand or sit. The skin near your tailbone will have soreness. Soak in warm water and reduce the pain. Make sure you regularly clean the skin affected by pilonidal cysts.

3. Risk of experiencing multiple cysts

If your untreated pilonidal sinus causes chronic inflammation, you may develop multiple cysts. You will feel unbearable pain from multiple cysts. That is why you should not overall medical treatment once you have noticed any symptoms. It will save you from several other complications. 

4. Cancer risks

Chronic infection problems for your pilonidal cyst condition will increase the risk of experiencing skin cancer. Squamous cell carcinoma is a type of cancer that results from pilonidal sinus. But, it occurs only in rare cases, and you can cure the conditions with the right treatment.  

5. Fistula development

The fistula is an unusual connection between your skin and internal organs and causes complications if you have left it untreated. Pilonidal fistula occurs if your sinus symptoms spread extensively and hit the anal canal. 

Why do many people ignore pilonidal cyst treatment?

There are some potential reasons for avoiding treatment for pilonidal cysts.

I. No awareness

Most patients do not have a clear understanding of the pilonidal disease. They have no idea of how untreated cysts will cause potential complications. They think that the cyst is a minor skin issue.

II. Mild symptoms

Initially, the pilonidal sinus does not cause discomfort. Patients believe that the symptoms will go away after a few days. 

III. Embarrassment

Some people want to avoid appointing a pilonidal cyst doctor because the condition occurs near their tailbones. These negative feelings prevent them from receiving treatment.

IV. Fear of surgery

Pilonidal cyst treatments involve a surgical process. The term ‘surgery’ naturally triggers fear in the mind. But, modern surgeries are less invasive and do not cause intense pain. 

V. Cost issues

Some patients are concerned about the cost of surgery for the pilonidal disease. They avoid treatments to save money. If you have health insurance, you will have no cost concerns.

So, overcome these challenges and start a treatment for pilonidal cysts.

Does an untreated pilonidal cyst cause an adverse effect on your daily activities?

Discomfort and pain resulting from a pilonidal cyst will prevent you from doing regular activities. For instance, you cannot walk or sit at your desk. It will also reduce your productivity and degrade your quality of life. 

There is also a risk of experiencing a psychological issue because of physical issues. So, chronic cyst problems must not be overlooked. If you constantly feel