Cysts are common, often harmless, and usually nothing to panic about—but they can also be signs of something more serious.
Whether you’ve recently discovered a lump under your skin or you’re simply curious about these mysterious little sacs, understanding what cysts are, how they behave, and when to get them checked is key to protecting your health.
Let’s demystify cysts and explore what they might mean for your body and peace of mind.
What Is a Cyst?
A cyst is a sac-like pocket of tissue that contains fluid, air, or other material. They can develop anywhere on the body—under the skin, on internal organs, or within tissue. Cysts come in many types, each with its own causes, risk factors, and treatment options.
Some of the most common cyst types include:
- Epidermoid cysts: Small, slow-growing bumps under the skin, often filled with keratin.
- Sebaceous cysts: Typically found on the face, neck, or torso, caused by blocked sebaceous glands.
- Ovarian cysts: Fluid-filled sacs that form on or in the ovaries—common in women of childbearing age.
- Ganglion cysts: Found near joints or tendons, especially around the wrist or hand.
- Pilonidal cysts: Develop near the tailbone, often due to ingrown hairs.
While most cysts are benign, they can cause discomfort, become infected, or indicate an underlying condition that needs attention.
What Causes Cysts to Form?
Cysts can form for a variety of reasons. Sometimes it’s as simple as a blocked gland or duct, while other times, they may be related to trauma, infection, or genetic conditions.
Some known triggers and contributors include:
- Blocked sebaceous glands
- Infections
- Chronic inflammation (e.g. acne)
- Genetic disorders (e.g. polycystic kidney disease)
- Hormonal fluctuations
In many cases, the exact cause isn’t fully understood. They may appear suddenly, or grow slowly over time.
Are Cysts Dangerous?
Most cysts are benign and cause little to no trouble beyond cosmetic concern or minor irritation. However, there are situations where a cyst might warrant further investigation:
- Rapid growth
- Pain or tenderness
- Signs of infection (redness, warmth, pus)
- Interference with bodily functions or movement
- Recurrence after previous treatment
In rare cases, what appears to be a cyst could actually be something else—such as a tumour. That’s why proper diagnosis is essential, especially if the lump changes or persists.
Diagnosis: What to Expect
If you discover a cyst, don’t jump to worst-case scenarios—but don’t ignore it either. A GP or dermatologist can usually diagnose a cyst with a physical exam. In some cases, they might order additional tests:
- Ultrasound – to determine the nature of the cyst (fluid-filled vs. solid)
- CT or MRI scan – for internal cysts or those in complex areas
- Biopsy – if there’s any suspicion of malignancy
Proper diagnosis helps rule out serious conditions and ensures you’re getting the right treatment.
Treatment Options
Not all cysts require removal. In fact, many resolve on their own or remain stable for years. However, intervention might be needed if the cyst is:
- Painful or infected
- Affecting movement or function
- Growing in size
- Causing cosmetic concern
- At risk of rupturing
Treatment options include:
- Drainage – temporary relief, but cysts often return
- Corticosteroid injections – reduce inflammation
- Surgical removal – permanent solution, especially for recurrent or bothersome cysts
- Antibiotics – if infection is present
For individuals seeking permanent solutions or dealing with recurring cysts, professional services such as London cyst removals can offer fast, safe, and discreet treatment from qualified specialists.
When Should You Seek Medical Help?
While it’s tempting to ignore a lump if it isn’t bothering you, there are several signs that signal it’s time to consult a professional:
- The cyst is painful or tender to touch
- It’s growing or changing shape/colour
- It’s in a sensitive area (e.g. near eyes or genitals)
- It keeps coming back after drainage
- You feel generally unwell (fever, fatigue, swelling)
- You’re unsure if it is a cyst
In all these cases, don’t delay. Early diagnosis is key, and treatment is often simple and minimally invasive.
Can You Prevent Cysts?
Prevention depends largely on the type of cyst and its cause. In many cases, there’s little you can do to stop them entirely. That said, some general habits may help:
- Keep skin clean and avoid heavy, pore-clogging products
- Avoid squeezing or picking at pimples—this can lead to cyst formation
- Maintain hormonal balance (where possible) through diet, sleep, and stress management
- See a doctor for persistent skin or gland issues—early treatment can prevent cyst development
For those prone to recurring cysts, working with a dermatologist to manage underlying causes (like acne or hormonal issues) can reduce future occurrences.
Final Thoughts
Cysts can be annoying, sometimes unsightly, and occasionally worrying—but the vast majority are manageable with minimal fuss. Still, it’s important to be proactive about your health. Knowing when to watch and when to act is the difference between quiet reassurance and ongoing discomfort.
If you’re dealing with a persistent lump, don’t let uncertainty linger. A quick visit to your GP or a skin specialist can put your mind at ease and get you on the path to treatment if needed.
When in doubt, get it checked. Better safe than sorry.
