Warning Signs of Pilonidal Disease You Shouldn’t Ignore

A painful bump that forms near your tailbone at the top end of your buttocks might be pilonidal disease, often referred to as pilonidal cyst. Usually starting from a ruptured hair follicle, which can cause a sinus, or tract, to form under the skin. Hair and debris collects in the pocket (a pit) and an abscess may form. If left untreated, it is not unusual for this to become a chronic condition.

Your risk of pilonidal disease

Pilonidal disease is common, with 70,000 new cases in the U.S. every year, and virtually anyone can have it. However, some people have an elevated risk, and if you’re aware of this, you may notice warning signs early, keeping your risk for complications to a minimum. 

You may have an elevated risk of pilonidal disease if you have one or more of these characteristics: 

• Men are much more likely to develop it than women.
• Coarse, thick body hair is often a genetic trait that can lead to it.
• Between the ages of 18 and 35 is the most common time for it to appear.
• Tight clothing promotes friction and humid conditions in the area.
• Jobs that require long periods of sitting can lead to the condition.
• Being obese or overweight can increase your risk.

Your risk of pilonidal disease climbs if it’s a condition that runs in your family. 

Warning signs

Visit us at the first sign of a pilonidal disease, including: 

• Local pain around the tailbone or cleft of the buttocks
• Pain that intensifies when you sit
• A dimple or pit near the buttock cleft
• A larger swollen area around the tailbone and buttock cleft
• A blood-or pus-filled abscess at the point of pain
• Foul-smelling drainage
• Signs of infection, including fatigue, fever, or nausea

Potential disease complications

Some people develop chronic or recurring cysts. Without treatment, your risk of serious infection climbs. Dr. Perryman specializes in the Bascom cleft lift procedure, a surgery that alters the conditions in the area by making the buttock cleft less deep, which leads to remarkable recovery outcomes.

Preventing pilonidal disease

If you have an elevated risk, you can take some steps to prevent the condition. 

Pay extra attention to the buttock cleft, ensuring that it’s clean and dry. Moisture plays a role in disease development by creating a good habitat for bacteria that can infect the follicle sac. 

Choosing absorbent, natural fabric undergarments may help keep the area dry. Some patients may have luck with regular shaving or hair removal around the buttocks and tailbone. 

Maintaining a healthy body mass reduces your risk. Add plenty of breaks if your job requires you to sit for long periods. (This is good practice for your body and health in general.)

Should you develop pilonidal disease, visit Colorado Colon & Rectal Specialists in Parker, Colorado, for assessment and treatment. Our proctologist, Dr. Lisa Perryman, FACS, FASCRS,  is an expert in pilonidal cleft surgery, the most effective way to prevent complications and recurrence of pilonidal disease. 

For pilonidal disease or other anorectal problems, contact Colorado Colon & Rectal Specialists. Schedule your appointment online or by phone.