OpenHealth Q&A

Get answered by medical professionals

Pilonidal Cyst Concerns

7/15/2025, 6:50:15 AMMale25-34

At 30 years old and weighing 140 pounds with a height of 5'5", I currently have a pilonidal cyst that is discharging both blood and pus. Should I seek medical attention for this issue, or is it acceptable to leave it as it is due to the drainage?

WellnessFamily MedicineInternal Medicine

Answers (1)

Cony

7/15/2025, 6:50:34 AM

OpenHealth AI

It’s important to take your symptoms seriously, especially since the pilonidal cyst is discharging both blood and pus. While some pilonidal cysts can be managed conservatively, the presence of discharge often indicates that there may be an infection or that the cyst requires further attention.

Why This Matters

The discharge you're experiencing can indicate that bacteria are present, and if left untreated, the condition may worsen, potentially leading to more severe complications such as abscess formation or systemic infection. It’s good that you’re aware of what’s happening, as this awareness can help guide your next steps.

Next Steps

  1. Monitor Symptoms: Pay close attention to any changes. Note the quantity and color of the drainage and look for any signs of increased redness, swelling, or pain around the area.

  2. Keep the Area Clean: Gently clean the area with mild soap and water, and keep it dry. Avoid using any harsh chemicals or excessive scrubbing that might irritate the skin further.

  3. Use Warm Compresses: Applying a warm compress can help reduce discomfort and promote drainage if there is an infection.

  4. Avoid Sitting for Long Periods: If possible, try to minimize pressure on the area, as sitting can exacerbate discomfort.

  5. Seek Medical Attention: Given the discharge of blood and pus, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare professional can assess the cyst, determine if it requires incision and drainage, or possibly antibiotics, and provide personalized care depending on the severity of the infection.

Conclusion

Managing a pilonidal cyst effectively often requires professional input, especially with the symptoms you’ve described. Keeping the area clean and monitoring symptoms are crucial, but don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. Your health and comfort are top priorities.

Related Questions

Dark Substance Ejected During Coughing

While coughing, I sensed an unusual sensation in my throat, which led me to expel a dark substance. The matter was lumpy yet contained thin, stringy parts that resembled vegetable fibers, despite the fact that I hadn't consumed anything of that nature recently. Should I be concerned about this occurrence, or is it advisable to wait and see if it reoccurs? I only captured an image after cleaning it up with a paper towel; feel free to check the comments for the photo. I am a 35-year-old male, currently taking phentermine and a generic version of Flonase, with no prior history of smoking or vaping.

WellnessFamily MedicineInternal Medicine
Male25-34
6 minutes ago

Should I Continue Taking Medication for a Condition I Doubt I Have?

Yesterday, my mother brought me (17F) to my annual health examination. During the visit, she expressed her concerns to my primary care physician (PCP) about my persistent bad breath, suggesting it might be due to excessive stomach acid. As a result, my doctor speculated that I could be harboring H. pylori bacteria, explaining that individuals of Asian descent who have traveled to Asia recently are at a higher risk for such an infection. Consequently, she prescribed a triple therapy regimen involving omeprazole, amoxicillin, and clarithromycin. What struck me as irregular was the absence of a breath test to confirm the presence of H. pylori; the diagnosis was strictly based on my mother's claims. Additionally, my mother believes my bad breath stems from my eating habits, thinking I overindulge during meals (which is often the case when she's around). However, the reality is that I frequently go without food, especially during my summer tutoring job, where for six and a half hours, I can't eat anything due to personal and financial constraints. I typically have a light breakfast before heading out. It's possible that my mother is detecting ketones on my breath, but the truth is that I'm consuming far less than she assumes. Should I proceed with the medication regimen?

WellnessFamily MedicineInternal Medicine
Male25-34
16 minutes ago

Understanding My Metabolic Panel Results

I would like to seek clarification regarding my metabolic panel results. Profile: 26-year-old male, weight 244 pounds, height 5 feet 9 inches, blood pressure reading 110 over 72. Here are the results I received: - Glucose: 77 mg/dL - BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen): 17 mg/dL - Creatinine: 1.29 mg/dL - Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR): 78 - Calcium: 9.6 mmol/L - Sodium: 141 mmol/L - Potassium: 5.3 mmol/L - Chloride: 104 mmol/L - Carbon Dioxide (CO2): 30 mmol/L - Total Protein: 7.6 gm/dL - Albumin: 4.9 gm/dL - Bilirubin: 0.4 mg/dL - Alkaline Phosphatase: 54 U/L - Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST): 30 U/L - Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT): 27 U/L I would be grateful for any insights. A couple of weeks ago, I experienced my first episode of acute gout, which led me to consult with a primary care physician (PCP). This metabolic screening is the first one I’ve undergone since 2023. My eGFR has consistently been elevated since 2020, yet no further actions were recommended at that time. In 2024, I had an MRI due to urinary issues, during which the physician investigated for any kidney stones or masses, but everything appeared normal. I have recently changed doctors, and the new physician conducted this panel, leaving me somewhat concerned about the implications of these results. Any assistance would greatly help alleviate my anxiety regarding this matter.

AgingFamily MedicineInternal Medicine
Male25-34
1 hour ago

Sudden Swelling in My Mouth: Seeking Advice

I am a 34-year-old male, standing at 6 feet 4 inches tall and weighing 200 pounds. I have no prior medical conditions and do not take any medications. This morning, I discovered that the left side of my mouth is swollen for no apparent reason. I haven’t experienced any injuries or trauma to the area. Can anyone offer insights or suggestions on what might be causing this?

WellnessLifestyle ChangesFamily Medicine
Male25-34
2 hours ago

Experiencing Eye Twitching Over Several Days?

Over the last four to five days, I've noticed a peculiar twitching sensation in my eye, occurring anywhere from zero to ten times within a single hour. Interestingly, it feels as though the twitch originates from the eyeball itself, rather than the eyelid. Each episode lasts anywhere from a couple of seconds to around ten seconds, and despite checking in the mirror, I don't observe any visible signs of twitching or movement. I'm curious if this condition is fairly common and whether it might be wise to monitor it for a while, or if it could warrant a doctor's visit for further evaluation.

WellnessLifestyle ChangesFamily Medicine
Male25-34
2 hours ago