Pilonidal cysts usually occur when your lost hair pierces your skin and gets buried. If it becomes infected like this, the resulting abscess is usually very painful. This small cyst is treated with crystallized phenol application without the need for surgery.
Pilonidal cysts are often seen in young men and there is a possibility of recurrence. The risk of occurrence is high in people who sit for long hours due to their work.
Symptoms
When the pilonidal sinus becomes infected, a swollen abscess occurs in the area. The symptoms of this infected pilonidal sinus are as follows: >When Should You See a Doctor?
If you experience symptoms of ingrown hair, you should see a doctor immediately. Your doctor will recommend you the most appropriate treatment for this disorder.
Causes
The exact cause of pilonidal cysts is not clear. However, most pilonidal cysts are known to arise from hairs penetrating the skin. Friction and pressure, tight clothing, cycling, sitting for long periods of time, or similar factors press the hairs into the skin. Perceiving hair as a foreign substance, the body creates a cyst around the hair.
Risk Factors
The following factors may make you more prone to pilonidal cyst formation:
· Anal sex
· Being overweight
· A sedentary lifestyle
· Occupation that requires sitting for long periods of time
· Excessively hairy body
· Stiff hair
Complications
If chronically infected ingrown hairs are not treated appropriately, there is a small risk of developing a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma.
How Can You Prevent Ingrown Hairs?
To prevent ingrown hairs, you can try the following:
· Clean the area Hold on
· Lose weight if necessary
· Avoid sitting for long periods of time
If you've had ingrown hairs in the past, it may be helpful to shave the area regularly or use epilation products to reduce the risk of recurrence.
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