Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can appear anywhere on the body. While most cysts are harmless, understanding the different types can help you decide when to seek medical help. Here’s a simple guide to six common types of cysts.
Epidermoid Cysts
These are common, harmless bumps that form under the skin. They contain keratin which is a protein found in skin, hair, and nails. Epidermoid cysts are skin-coloured and they usually appear on the face, neck or torso when hair follicles become blocked.
Sebaceous Cysts
These cysts form in the oil-producing glands of your skin and they contain an oily substance called sebum, rather than keratin. They most commonly appear on the face, neck or body and often appear after there has been damage to the oil glands in the skin.
Ganglion Cysts
These are round, gel-filled lumps that often appear near joints or tendons, especially in the hands, wrists, ankles and feet. What causes them isn’t known, but they can develop after injury or overuse of a joint. Most ganglion cysts are harmless, but they can grow large enough to cause a problem.
Pilonidal Cysts
These cysts form in the crease of the buttocks and they develop when the hair punctures the skin and becomes embedded. This can then lead to an infection. Common symptoms include pain when sitting, skin discoloration and swelling. They usually appear after puberty and they can be aggravated by prolonged sitting. If you are looking for treatment of cysts Manchester, such as the examples shown here, https://www.manchesterlumpsclinic.com/common-lumps/cysts, there are lots of options available.
Pilar Cysts
Pilar cysts are most often found on the scalp as they form from hair follicles. They appear as smooth, round bumps under the skin and are usually harmless. While they don’t often cause problems, they can grow large enough to become uncomfortable.
Mucous Cysts
These are small, fluid-filled cysts that form around the mouth or on the lips when salivary glands become blocked. Common causes include lip biting, piercings or poor dental hygiene. They often disappear on their own, but recurring cysts may need medical treatment.
