Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop in various parts of the body. While cysts are often harmless, some types can cause discomfort or other side effects. Here is an overview of some potential side effects that may occur with different types of cysts.
Side Effects of Ovarian Cysts
Ovarian cysts develop on a woman’s ovaries and are quite common. Many ovarian cysts cause no symptoms and resolve on their own without treatment. However, some may result in side effects such as:
- Pelvic pain – A large ovarian cyst can cause a dull, achy, or sharp pain in the lower abdomen on the side of the cyst. This may come and go or be constant.
- Bloating or fullness – The feeling of pressure or fullness in the abdomen from a large cyst.
- Heavy or irregular periods – Hormonal changes from cysts can lead to heavier, longer, or more frequent menstrual bleeding.
- Pain during intercourse – Deep penetration may cause pain due to the cyst pressing on other pelvic structures.
- Difficulty urinating – Large cysts that press on the bladder can lead to more urgent or frequent urination.
More severe cases may cause nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and rapid breathing from twisting of the cyst on the ovaries. This is considered a medical emergency.
Complications of Ovarian Cysts
Some additional but less common complications of ovarian cysts can include:
- Ovarian torsion – The cyst becomes so large and heavy that it twists the ovary, cutting off blood flow. This causes sudden, severe abdominal pain and requires emergency surgery.
- Rupture – A large cyst may rupture, causing severe pain. This can lead to internal bleeding.
- Infection – A cyst becomes infected, resulting in fever, nausea/vomiting, and pelvic pain. IV antibiotics are needed.
- Cancer – In rare cases, a cyst could be cancerous. Symptoms may include bloating, trouble eating, pelvic pain, and rapid growth/change.
Side Effects of Breast Cysts
Breast cysts are fluid-filled sacs within the breast tissue that develop in about 30% of women by age 50. They are benign and often do not cause any symptoms. When side effects do occur, they may include:
- Breast pain – The cyst may feel like a tender lump in the breast, sometimes worse with menstrual cycles.
- Breast swelling – A portion of the breast containing the cyst may appear swollen and larger than the other breast.
- Changes in breast size – Hormonal fluctuations around the menstrual cycle can cause cyst swelling to change, leading to changes in breast size.
- Nipple discharge – A cyst may press on breast ducts and cause clear or colored fluid discharge from the nipple.
- Skin inflammation – A ruptured cyst may cause breast redness, warmth, and tenderness.
While uncomfortable, breast cysts do not increase cancer risk in most cases. However, any new breast lump should be evaluated by a doctor.
Side Effects of Sebaceous Cysts
Sebaceous cysts contain an accumulation of sebum from oil glands and most often occur on the face, neck, trunk, and genitals. Possible side effects include:
- A small bump under the skin, usually painless.
- Redness and swelling if the cyst becomes infected.
- Tenderness with pressure or friction against the cyst.
- Slow enlargement over time as the cyst grows.
- Rupture leading to pus drainage and sometimes scarring.
If a sebaceous cyst becomes large or painful, a doctor may choose to surgically drain or remove it.
Side Effects of Pilonidal Cysts
Pilonidal cysts occur along the crease between the buttocks and contain skin debris and hair. Side effects may include:
- Pain and swelling at the bottom of the tailbone.
- Drainage of blood, pus, or foul-smelling fluid.
- Itching and skin irritation around the cyst.
- Difficulty sitting comfortably.
- An abscess if the cyst becomes infected.
Surgery is often required to definitively treat a pilonidal cyst and prevent recurrence.
Side Effects of Ganglion Cysts
Ganglion cysts are small, fluid-filled lumps that grow near joints and tendons, most often in the wrists and hands. Side effects may consist of:
- A round, firm lump under the skin, usually 2-3 cm across.
- Mild ache or pain from pressure on nerves or tissue.
- Tingling or numbness if pressing on a nerve.
- Weakness in the hand with a large wrist cyst.
- Difficulty fully moving the affected joint.
Ganglion cysts sometimes disappear on their own. Otherwise, draining the fluid or surgical removal are treatment options.
When to See a Doctor
In most cases, cysts do not require medical treatment unless they cause troublesome symptoms. Schedule an appointment with a doctor if you experience:
- Severe or worsening pain
- Rapid cyst growth
- High fever, nausea/vomiting, or fainting
- Bleeding, pus, or foul-smelling drainage
- Difficulty with urination or bowel movements
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness
- Interference with daily activities
- Cosmetic concerns about appearance
A doctor can determine if the cyst may be cancerous, infected, or at risk of rupturing. Based on an evaluation, they may recommend draining, medication, or removal of the cyst.
Conclusion
Cysts can arise in various parts of the body and may cause a range of side effects depending on the location and type of cyst. Mild discomfort and fullness are common, but cysts can sometimes lead to more severe complications like rupture, infection, and functional impairment. It is important to monitor cysts for any concerning changes and seek medical advice when necessary.