Ganglion Cysts
This article does not constitute as medical advice.
If you are experiencing Ganglion Cysts symptoms, contact your doctor or make an appointment.
What is a Ganglion Cyst?
A ganglion cyst is a benign accumulation of fluid under the skin. It is seen in the sheath covering the joints and tendons and commonly occurs in wrists, ankles, and feet. Sometimes cysts can grow near or under a toenail and affect its growth. Cysts also cause pain if they push against a nerve. Sometimes cysts can heal independently, but your doctor can treat them if they are too uncomfortable.
Causes of Ganglion Cysts
This situation occurs when fluid leaks out of a tendon or a joint and causes swelling underneath the skin. There is no particular cause for the development of ganglion cysts, but specific individuals may tend to form these cysts:
- Gender: Women are 3X more likely to develop this condition.
- Age: These growths are more common in young adults aged 20-40 years old.
- History of Injury: Those who have experienced trauma or repeated injury to the foot could also contribute to a cyst.
Symptoms of a Ganglion Cyst
- A visible bump: The skin over the cyst may have a lumpy appearance. They can be as large as a golf ball.
- Pain or discomfort: Either dull pain when the cyst presses upon a joint or when your shoe touches down on a particular part of the foot or nail.
- Tingling: A pins and needles feeling if the cyst is touching a nerve
Treating Ganglion Cysts
At Home: If it isn’t painful, your doctor may suggest treating this benign cyst at home. 50% of Ganglions disappear on their own!
- Keep a watchful eye on the impairment.
- Limit your activity so it doesn’t grow or get irritated.
- Wear roomy and comfortable shoes.
- Ice the spot to reduce inflammation
- Do NOT attempt to pop the cyst on your own at home!
Medical Treatment: Contact your doctor if the cyst is painful or causing numbness. They may recommend the following for treatment:
- Drainage of the cyst after numbing the affected area
- A steroid may be injected into the cyst so that fluid cannot accumulate again
- Surgical removal of the cyst is recommended in extreme cases.
Note that even after treatment of the cyst, whether at home or medically, it can return.
