What is a cyst?
A cyst is a closed pocket or sac that can form in many parts of the body. Cysts are usually harmless and are often only found incidentally during a medical exam. However, they can sometimes become inflamed or infected, causing pain and swelling. Common types of cysts include:
Epidermoid cysts
Epidermoid cysts form under the skin from cells producing keratin, a protein found in skin, hair, and nails. They often appear on the face, neck and trunk.
Pilonidal cysts
Pilonidal cysts contain hair and skin debris and occur at the top of the crease of the buttocks. They are thought to be caused by ingrown hairs.
Ganglion cysts
Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled lumps that arise from the sheaths around joints and tendons, often at the wrist or ankle.
Baker’s cysts
Baker’s cysts are caused by a buildup of joint fluid behind the knee and can cause swelling and tightness.
What causes a cyst to become inflamed?
Cysts can become inflamed for several reasons:
Infection
Bacteria, viruses or fungi can enter the cyst through an opening in the skin and cause an infection. This is more common with certain types of cysts like pilonidal cysts. Signs include redness, warmth, swelling, pain and pus drainage.
Injury
Trauma or injury to a cyst can damage it and trigger inflammation as the body tries to heal. Sports activities and tight clothing rubbing on the cyst may lead to irritation.
Hormones
Hormonal changes like those during puberty, menstruation and pregnancy can cause some cysts to enlarge and become inflamed due to increased production of oils and proteins.
Blocked gland
When a gland outlet becomes blocked, fluid can accumulate and form a cyst. The expanding cyst may get inflamed. This can occur with sebaceous cysts of the skin.
How to reduce inflammation of a cyst
Hot compress
Applying a warm, wet washcloth to the affected area for 10-15 minutes 3-4 times a day can help promote drainage and healing. The moist heat helps increase blood flow and reduces swelling and pain.
Cold compress
Using a cold pack wrapped in a towel on the cyst for 15 minutes at a time can constrict blood vessels and decrease inflammation and soreness. Do this a few times a day. Don’t apply ice directly to the skin.
Sitz bath
Sitting in a few inches of warm water can soothe inflamed cysts in the pelvic region like pilonidal cysts. Add Epsom salts to help draw out infection. Do this 2-3 times daily.
Antibiotics
If the cyst is infected, a doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics to clear the bacteria or virus causing inflammation. Common choices include dicloxacillin, cephalexin and clindamycin.
Cyst drainage
A doctor can drain the fluid or pus from an inflamed cyst using a needle and syringe. This helps reduce pressure and discomfort. The area may be packed with gauze to prevent reaccumulation of fluid.
Steroid injection
Injecting a diluted corticosteroid into the cyst can help decrease inflammation dramatically. The effects last several weeks or months.
Anti-inflammatory medications
Over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, naproxen or aspirin can reduce cyst inflammation, pain and swelling when taken by mouth.
Warm bath
Soaking the affected area in a warm bath with Epsom salts can help increase circulation, relax muscles, and speed healing of an inflamed cyst. Do this daily.
Loose clothing
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that doesn’t rub or irritate the cyst to avoid further inflammation and aggravation. Protect the area with a bandage if needed.
Good hygiene
Gently clean the area around the cyst daily with mild soap and water to prevent bacteria buildup and infection which can worsen inflammation. Avoid harsh scrubbing.
Hot compress
Applying a warm, wet washcloth to the affected area for 10-15 minutes 3-4 times a day can help promote drainage and healing. The moist heat helps increase blood flow and reduces swelling and pain.
Lifestyle remedies
Making certain lifestyle changes can also help reduce cyst inflammation:
Weight loss
Being overweight or obese increases inflammation throughout the body. Losing excess pounds can help reduce chronic inflammation.
Quit smoking
Smoking triggers inflammation. Quitting improves circulation and immune function for faster healing.
Balanced diet
Eat a diet high in anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens, berries, fish, nuts and olive oil to reduce cyst inflammation. Limit sugar, refined carbs and red meat which can worsen inflammation.
Stress management
Chronic stress produces inflammatory hormones like cortisol. Try relaxation techniques, meditation and yoga to lower stress for better cyst healing.
Exercise
Regular moderate exercise like brisk walking helps lower inflammation and promotes circulation for faster recovery. Avoid activities that rub or traumatize the cyst.
Supplements
Some natural supplements like omega-3 fish oils, turmeric, ginger and bromelain pineapple extract can help reduce cyst inflammation when taken daily. Check with your doctor first.
When to see a doctor
See your doctor if the cyst:
– Becomes very painful or inflamed
– Is red, warm and swollen
– Leaks fluid or pus
– Interferes with daily activities
– Doesn’t respond to home treatments
– You develop fever, nausea or dizziness
A doctor can determine if the cyst is infected and prescribe antibiotics or drain the cyst if needed. Some cysts may need to be surgically removed.
Conclusion
Reducing inflammation is key to relieving discomfort and promoting healing of a cyst. This can often be accomplished with self-care techniques like warm compresses, cold packs, Epsom salt soaks, OTC pain medication, good hygiene and wearing loose clothing. Lifestyle changes like losing weight, quitting smoking, reducing stress and taking anti-inflammatory supplements can also help. See a doctor promptly if the cyst becomes very inflamed, infected or doesn’t improve with home remedies. With a combination approach, most cyst inflammations can be treated effectively.