Health Information : Pilonidal Sinus

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What is Pilonidal Sinus?

Pilonidal Sinus is a small cyst or abscess that develops in the cleft of your buttocks where the buttocks separate. It usually contains hair, dirt and debris. It causes a lot of pain and can even become infected resulting in ooze pus and blood that has foul odour.Pilonidal Sinus mainly occurs in men who sit most of the time like cab drivers.

What causes Pilonidal Sinus?

The exact cause of Pilonidal Sinus is unknown. However, there are certain factors that are considered responsible for the condition, such as:

• Changing hormones
• Hair growth
• Friction from clothing
• Spending a lot of time sitting

What are the symptoms of Pilonidal Sinus?

Pilonidal Sinus may not cause any noticeable symptoms until it becomes infected and develops into cyst or abscess. The signs and symptoms experienced then are:

• Pain while sitting/standing
• Swelling of the cyst
• Reddened, sore skin around the area
• Pus or blood draining from the affected area causing foul smell
• Hair protruding from the lesion
• More than one sinus tract is formed

How can Pilonidal Sinus be treated?

One may not require any treatment if Pilonidal Sinus is not infected. However, if it is painful or causing discomfort then you may be prescribed antibiotics by your doctor to treat wide range of bacteria.

If Pilonidal Sinus becomes infected, then surgery is recommended to get relief from your problem