Sebaceous Cyst, also known as Steatoma, refers to a situation where keratin is trapped underneath the skin’s surface – in the sebaceous sac (created from the part of the skin). Sebaceous cysts are formed when an opening to the sebaceous gland becomes closed with swollen hair follicles, skin trauma, and a high testosterone level. It can only be disorganized by their appearance.
If you are wondering how to treat this condition, then you have come to the right place. This article will teach you relevant things you should know about Sebaceous Cysts and how to treat them.
How Cyst form
These are formed when the skin produces an oily substance called sebum, but this substance finds it difficult to escape to the outer surface. In most situations, the cysts may remain small or get larger. Cysts are not common among children but commonly found among adults. But one thing that is sure about cysts is that they are not cancerous.
Symptoms of Cysts
The cyst usually appears in various sizes ranging from a few millimeters and several centimeters, i.e., from less than a quarter of an inch to as high as two inches). The cyst is movable and dome-shaped. Sebaceous cysts usually appear predominantly on the upper chest, upper back, and face.
Diagnosis
When it comes to the treatment and diagnosis of sebaceous cysts, it does not require any medical attention. If you notice the appearance of sebaceous cysts on any part of your body, you can control them by simply draining them often. Apply a warm wet cloth on the area to soften the contents. Once this is done, you should carefully squeeze them out to extract the content. Often, small sebaceous cysts disappear by themselves without applying any wet cloth or advanced medical attention.
One thing you should also understand about sebaceous cysts is that they can be infected. At that stage, it is required you apply antibiotics before the removal of the contents.
Expected duration
Sebaceous Cysts can remain permanently or disappear without the application of drugs or surgery.
How to prevent sebaceous cysts
The most efficient way to prevent sebaceous cysts in people with acne is to keep the acne under control with medication.
How to treat sebaceous cysts
Electrolysis
When sebaceous cysts remain small, they can be treated using electrolysis current and advanced electrolysis technique. If electrolysis is used for treatment, it is best for you to treat the nodule more than once based on the location and size. Successful treatment cannot be guaranteed at all times because each cyst exists as an individual.
Using antibiotics
If the skin around the cysts becomes inflamed, it is advisable to use antibiotics for treatment at this stage. However, if cysts are causing irritation or cosmetic challenges, your physician can come in handy at this stage. The physician can remove the content by making a small incision in the skin.
What is the right time to call a professional?
If you notice any swelling around your skin that lasts for more than two weeks, you should reach out to your doctor, especially if the pain becomes unbearable.
Conclusion
Many cysts usually have no symptoms, and some will naturally go away with any treatment applied. If your cysts become problematic, you can reach out to your doctor to drain out the contents. The procedure can be done using antibiotics or surgical procedures. Either way, both methods do not have any side effects.