Cysts can be quite common, affecting all age groups and almost 20% of all adults in the US at some point in time. Occurring in all shapes, sizes, and severity. Cysts are generally easily treatable and in this article, you will learn how you can leverage your local Urgent Care to quickly treat and address cysts.
What is a Cyst?
A cyst is a small pocket of tissue filled with air, fluid, or other substances. They can develop in any part of the body and may be caused by genetics, inflammation, infection, or other issues. Cysts are usually round, dome-shaped lumps that can move easily under the skin and range in size from very small to several inches across.
How Can You Recognize a Cyst?
Cysts can vary in appearance depending on their type and cause. Generally, they are round or oval-shaped bumps that are firm to the touch. They may be yellow or white and have a dark plug through which you might be able to squeeze out the pus. If you notice any unusual lumps on your body, it’s important to seek medical attention right away so that your doctor can diagnose the cause and recommend treatment if necessary.
Why Do People Get Cysts?
The exact cause of cysts varies depending on their type and location. Some cysts form as a result of infection, while others may be caused by genetics or inflammation. In some cases, cysts may form due to blockages in the body’s natural drainage system, such as the lymphatic system or sweat glands.
What Is Inside A Cyst?
The contents of a cyst depend on its type and cause, but generally, they contain air, fluid, or other substances such as pus or blood. Sebaceous cysts typically contain sebum (an oily substance produced by sebaceous glands) while ovarian cysts often contain hormones such as estrogen and progesterone.
Is A Cyst Serious?
In most cases, cysts are not serious and do not require treatment unless they become infected or cause pain or discomfort. Oftentimes cysts are nothing more than cosmetic, or annoying inconveniences. However, in some cases, they may indicate a more serious underlying medical condition, and it is important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have a cyst, or if the cyst is growing in size, is painful, or has any other unusual symptoms.
Does A Cyst Go Away On Its Own?
In some cases, a cyst may go away without treatment, but this depends on its type and cause. If it does not go away on its own, then it may need to be surgically removed depending on its size and location. Your doctor will be able to advise you on the best course of action for treating your particular type of cyst. Other treatment options for a cyst include:
- Antibiotics
- Steroid injections
- Laser treatments
- Cryotherapy
At an urgent care center, you can expect to conveniently take advantage of some steroid injections, antibiotics, and drainage.
What To Know About Cysts:
It’s important to know what kind of cyst you have before attempting any kind of treatment, as different types require different treatments. It’s also important to seek medical advice if you notice any unusual lumps on your body so that your doctor can diagnose the cause and recommend appropriate treatment if necessary.
What Are the Types Of Cysts?
There are many different types of cysts including sebaceous (oil) cysts, epidermoid (skin) cysts, ovarian (hormonal)cysts, dermoid (hair follicle), pilar (sweat gland)cyts , ganglion (joint capsule)cyts , bursal (fluid filled sacs near joints), pancreatic pseudocysts, renal pseudocysts, hepatic pseudocysts, splenic pseudocysts, thyroid nodules/cysts.
You can tell these types apart by size, shape, location, and what they’re filled with. It is important to get a diagnosis from your doctor before pursuing any form of treatment, as some cysts can be serious or indicate an underlying medical condition.
Why Do Cysts And Pseudocysts Form?
Cysts form when cells divide abnormally due to genetic mutations, while pseudocysts form when fluids build up in an area due to blockages in natural drainage systems like lymph nodes or sweat glands. These can be especially dangerous if left untreated, as they can lead to infection and inflammation.
How Are Cysts Treated?
Treatment for a cyst depends on its type and severity but generally involves draining them with a needle followed by antibiotics for infections; surgical removal for larger ones; hormone therapy for ovarian cysts; radiation therapy for cancerous ones; topical creams for skin-related ones; physical therapy for joint related ones; etc.
Can Cysts be Prevented?
In most cases no but some lifestyle changes such as avoiding smoking/alcohol/drugs/unprotected sex/poor hygiene practices may help reduce risk factors associated with certain types of cystic conditions.
University Urgent Care offers a variety of cyst treatments, including drainage and antibiotics for infections, hormone therapy for ovarian cysts, radiation therapy for cancerous ones, topical creams for skin-related ones, and more. If you think you may have a cyst or other lump that requires medical attention, contact University Urgent Care today to
When Should You Seek Help For A Cyst?
At University Urgent Care, we are well-equipped to provide quick, convenient, and affordable care for cysts. We know you want care now! That’s why we accept walk-ins and same-day appointments. Skip the wait and the hassle and get care when you need it!