A cyst is a closed sac of tissue that can form in various parts of the body, often filled with air, fluid, pus, or other materials. While the presence of a cyst might lead to a natural inclination to “pop” or self-extract it, this impulse carries potential implications. This article explains what cysts are, the dangers of home treatment, and professional management.
What a Cyst Is
Cysts are common formations that can appear almost anywhere on the body, including under the skin. They are enclosed sacs with a distinct wall separating them from surrounding tissues. The contents of a cyst can vary widely, from fluid and air to semi-solid material like keratin.
Unlike a typical pimple or boil, which are often superficial infections of hair follicles and usually contain pus, cysts are deeper structures. Pimples tend to be inflamed and resolve relatively quickly, whereas cysts are generally firmer, dome-shaped lumps that can persist for months or even years. Many cysts are benign, but they can cause discomfort, pain, or cosmetic concern, leading individuals to seek removal.
Risks of Popping a Cyst Yourself
Attempting to pop a cyst at home can lead to several consequences. One of the primary concerns is the risk of infection. Non-sterile conditions, such as using uncleaned hands or tools, can introduce bacteria into the open wound created by self-manipulation. This can result in a severe infection, potentially leading to conditions like cellulitis or an abscess. Signs of such an infection include increased redness, swelling, warmth, pain, and sometimes fever.
Another risk is permanent scarring. Trauma to the skin from improper squeezing or cutting can disrupt the natural healing process, leading to the formation of noticeable scars. These scars might include hypertrophic scars or keloids. Professionals use specific techniques to minimize scarring, which are not easily replicated at home.
Cysts are characterized by an enclosed sac or capsule. If this capsule is not entirely removed during self-extraction, the cyst is likely to recur, often growing back larger or more inflamed. Draining the contents without removing the sac means the cyst can easily refill.
Squeezing a cyst can inadvertently push its contents deeper into the surrounding tissues. This action can exacerbate inflammation, spread infection further into the skin, and make the cyst more painful and difficult to treat. This can also lead to increased swelling and prolonged discomfort. Attempting to pop a cyst also lacks the precision and medical knowledge of a healthcare provider, who can accurately diagnose the type of cyst and apply appropriate, sterile techniques for removal.
Seeking Professional Help for Cysts
Consulting a healthcare professional for cyst management offers safe and effective alternatives to self-treatment. It is advisable to seek medical advice if a cyst becomes painful, red, swollen, or warm to the touch, as these are indicators of potential infection or inflammation. Rapid growth, changes in appearance, or if the cyst interferes with daily activities or causes discomfort also warrant a professional evaluation. Any new or unexplained lump on the skin should be checked by a doctor to rule out more serious conditions.
Healthcare providers have several procedures available for cyst management. One common approach for infected or inflamed cysts is incision and drainage (I&D). This minor surgical procedure involves making a small incision in the cyst to allow the accumulated fluid or pus to drain, providing immediate relief from pressure and pain. The area is typically numbed with local anesthesia before the procedure.
For complete removal and to prevent recurrence, surgical excision is often performed. This involves carefully removing the entire cyst, including its capsule, to ensure that the sac, which can cause the cyst to reform, is fully extracted. This procedure is usually done under local anesthesia and is effective in minimizing the chance of the cyst returning.
Another treatment option, particularly for inflamed cysts, is a steroid injection. A corticosteroid medication is injected directly into the cyst to reduce inflammation and shrink its size, often providing rapid relief within 24 to 48 hours. This can be beneficial for reducing pain and swelling. A healthcare provider can accurately diagnose the type of cyst, ensure sterile conditions during any procedure, and select the most appropriate treatment to minimize recurrence and scarring, guiding patients toward optimal outcomes.