Unfortunately, most cysts will not go away on their own and may require one or more treatments to shrink or remove.
Cysts are a common skin condition that can appear anywhere on the body. They are noncancerous, sac-like closed pockets of membranous tissue that can be filled with fluid, pus or other material.
Different types of cysts include epidermoid cysts, sebaceous cysts, ganglion cysts, pilonidal cysts, pilar cysts and mucous cysts.
Cysts can develop as a result of infection, injury/trauma, changing hormones, buildup of keratin, clogging of sebaceous glands (oil glands) or surrounding foreign bodies (such as earrings). They are typically painless, however they can be painful if they become infected or inflamed. Symptoms include redness, swelling, warmth and tenderness.
Unfortunately, most cysts do not go away on their own. They may require one or more treatments to shrink or remove the cyst completely. Some cysts may need to be drained to relieve the pain and pressure. This procedure involves locally anesthetizing the area and puncturing the cyst using a small blade.
Other cysts can be treated using steroid injections to decrease their size. This may require multiple visits and treatments. If the cyst does not respond to treatment, it may need to be surgically removed if it continues to be a problem and/or is cosmetically unpleasant.
