{"id":160300,"date":"2022-06-02T15:23:59","date_gmt":"2022-06-02T09:53:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/?p=160300"},"modified":"2026-04-24T12:08:06","modified_gmt":"2026-04-24T12:08:06","slug":"pilonidal-sinus-causes-symptoms-remedies","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/pilonidal-sinus-causes-symptoms-remedies\/","title":{"rendered":"Pilonidal Sinus &#8211; Causes, Symptoms &#038; Remedies"},"content":{"rendered":"<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC \"-\/\/W3C\/\/DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional\/\/EN\" \"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/TR\/REC-html40\/loose.dtd\">\n<html><head><meta http-equiv=\"Content-Type\" content=\"text\/html; charset=utf-8\">\n<\/head><body><div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_79_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-69eba73e44791\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><span class=\"ez-toc-cssicon\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-69eba73e44791\"  aria-label=\"Toggle\" \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/pilonidal-sinus-causes-symptoms-remedies\/#Introduction\" >Introduction<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/pilonidal-sinus-causes-symptoms-remedies\/#What_Causes_Pilonidal_Sinus\" >What Causes Pilonidal Sinus?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/pilonidal-sinus-causes-symptoms-remedies\/#Pilonidal_Sinus_Types\" >Pilonidal Sinus Types<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/pilonidal-sinus-causes-symptoms-remedies\/#Symptoms_Of_Pilonidal_Sinus\" >Symptoms Of Pilonidal Sinus<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/pilonidal-sinus-causes-symptoms-remedies\/#Home_Remedies_for_Pilonidal_Sinus\" >Home Remedies for Pilonidal Sinus<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/pilonidal-sinus-causes-symptoms-remedies\/#When_to_Seek_Professional_Help_for_Pilonidal_Sinus\" >When to Seek Professional Help for Pilonidal Sinus<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/pilonidal-sinus-causes-symptoms-remedies\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/pilonidal-sinus-causes-symptoms-remedies\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\" >Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/pilonidal-sinus-causes-symptoms-remedies\/#Reference\" >Reference<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n    <a rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/channel-health-talk\"\n       class=\"pe-healthtalk-banner\"\n       style=\"position:relative; display:block; margin:10px; border-radius:10px; border-bottom:2px solid #117B77; overflow:hidden;\">\n        <span aria-hidden=\"true\" style=\"position:absolute; left:0; bottom:0; width:2px; height:50%; background:#10847e;\"><\/span>\n        <img alt=\"Join Health Talk by PharmEasy on WhatsApp\"\n             src=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/PEhealthtalk-1.png\"\n             style=\"width:100%; display:block; border-radius:10px;\">\n    <\/a>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Introduction\"><\/span><strong>Introduction<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Pilonidal Sinus is a skin abnormality that can occur near the tailbone, at the top of the buttocks. It usually forms a tunnel or a sac-like depression in the region. Pilonidal sinus is also known as a pilonidal cyst or pilonidal disease and is usually not a concern unless it gets infected<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC11129967\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">1<\/a><\/sup>. Infected pilonidal cysts are called abscesses and can cause pain and discomfort, apart from other symptoms. The precise cause of pilonidal sinus is unknown, but it is thought to be associated with hair growing into the skin, as well as skin-to-skin friction.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>People who sit for long periods for work (such as drivers, office workers, etc) may experience pilonidal sinus more often than others. Additionally, men are more likely to experience this condition than women, possibly due to males being hairier than women in general. If you suspect that you may have pilonidal sinus, you must speak with your doctor and get it checked. Only a doctor will be able to diagnose and treat this condition.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Causes_Pilonidal_Sinus\"><\/span><strong>What Causes Pilonidal Sinus?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The exact cause of pilonidal sinus is unknown, but the presence of hair within the shallow depression near the tailbone area can indicate a possible link. It is thought that excessive sitting along with ingrown hair (when the hair grows back into the skin) may be causing the development of pilonidal sinus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Excessive sweating may also cause pilonidal sinus since this can encourage the growth of certain bacteria. Bacteria can cause an infection within the hole, this may lead to various symptoms and require medical intervention. Here are some risk factors for pilonidal sinus:<\/p><div id=\"sfa_container_160300\" class=\"sfa_container\" style=\"display:none\"><div class=\"sfa_overlay\"><\/div><button id=\"sfa_btn_160300\" class=\"sfa_btn\">Show Full Article<\/button><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Gender:<\/strong> Males are 3-4 times more likely to develop this condition than females<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK557770\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">2<\/a><\/sup>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Age: <\/strong>People younger than 40 have a higher risk than older adults.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Job Type:<\/strong> Jobs that involve a lot of sitting such as driving and transportation jobs as well as office work.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Weight:<\/strong> Obese and overweight people are more likely to develop pilonidal sinus, possibly due to increased friction<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK557770\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">2<\/a><\/sup>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hair: <\/strong>Hairier individuals with thick or rough hair may have a higher risk.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Clothing:<\/strong> Tight clothing may increase your risk of this condition.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Pilonidal_Sinus_Types\"><\/span><strong>Pilonidal Sinus Types<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are two main types of pilonidal sinus \u2013 Infected pilonidal sinus and non-infected pilonidal sinus. Additionally, the severity of the condition may differ based on the size of the cyst or sinus as well as the symptoms associated with it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Symptoms_Of_Pilonidal_Sinus\"><\/span><strong>Symptoms Of Pilonidal Sinus<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Pilonidal sinus typically only causes symptoms when it becomes infected. Although not all of these tunnels will become infected, once you develop an infection in this hole or cyst, the following symptoms may appear-<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Pain in the upper buttocks area, it may get worse when you sit down.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A hole, dimple, sunken area of skin at the top of the area between your buttocks.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Swollen, reddened skin that is tender to the touch near the top of your buttocks.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>An infected abscess that drains fluid or pus.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In rare cases, the above symptoms may be accompanied by a fever and chills<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In other rare cases, the infected cyst may occur in other body parts (such as the armpits).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Usually, pilonidal sinus will be detected by a doctor when he\/she visibly examines the area and know about complaints of pain and tenderness in the region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Home_Remedies_for_Pilonidal_Sinus\"><\/span><strong>Home Remedies for Pilonidal Sinus<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Pilonidal sinus can usually only be permanently fixed through surgery, but there are plenty of self-care methods you can do to ease your symptoms. Here are some basic activities and solutions for lowering your risk of pilonidal sinus as well as decreasing your discomfort if you already have it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>1. Hot Compress <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-medium\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"375\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hot-compress-on-back-375x250.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-269719\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hot-compress-on-back-375x250.webp 375w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hot-compress-on-back-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hot-compress-on-back-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hot-compress-on-back-741x494.webp 741w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hot-compress-on-back-480x320.webp 480w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hot-compress-on-back-720x480.webp 720w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hot-compress-on-back-150x100.webp 150w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hot-compress-on-back.webp 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 375px) 100vw, 375px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Using a hot wet compress can heat the region and provide some mild temporary relief. A hot compress may also allow the pus to drain from the sinus which could ease the pain and itchiness associated with this condition. Use a hot water bag or heated wet cloth to gently place it on the region for several minutes. Repeat the process as needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>2. Sitz Bath <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-medium\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"375\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/sitz-bath-375x250.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-269722\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/sitz-bath-375x250.webp 375w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/sitz-bath-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/sitz-bath-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/sitz-bath-741x494.webp 741w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/sitz-bath-480x320.webp 480w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/sitz-bath-720x480.webp 720w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/sitz-bath-150x100.webp 150w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/sitz-bath.webp 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 375px) 100vw, 375px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Although a Sitz bath is usually recommended for fistulas, it may also give some relief to those with pilonidal sinus<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC7949598\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">3<\/a><\/sup>. In a shallow tub, add warm water and soak the region for several minutes. Repeat this procedure multiple times a day if it brings relief from the pain.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3. Hygiene <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-medium\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"375\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hygiene-375x250.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-269723\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hygiene-375x250.webp 375w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hygiene-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hygiene-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hygiene-741x494.webp 741w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hygiene-480x320.webp 480w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hygiene-720x480.webp 720w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hygiene-150x100.webp 150w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hygiene.webp 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 375px) 100vw, 375px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Ensure that the region between your buttocks is always clean and dry. Be gentle when cleaning the area and always pat yourself down with a dry towel. Moisture may increase the risk of bacterial growth so it is essential to maintain proper hygiene<a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC7949598\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><sup>3<\/sup><\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>4. Hair Removal <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-medium\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"375\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hair-removal-375x250.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-269721\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hair-removal-375x250.webp 375w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hair-removal-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hair-removal-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hair-removal-741x494.webp 741w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hair-removal-480x320.webp 480w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hair-removal-720x480.webp 720w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hair-removal-150x100.webp 150w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hair-removal.webp 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 375px) 100vw, 375px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Since ingrown hair is thought to play a major role in the development of infection in the pilonidal sinus, you can lower your risk by removing hair from the area<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC7949598\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">3<\/a><\/sup>. Laser hair removal as well as traditional methods like shaving and hair removal creams may decrease your risk. Be sure to clean the area thoroughly after shaving since loose hair can also poke the skin and cause a cyst to form.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>5. Clothing <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-medium\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"375\" height=\"252\" src=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/cloth-375x252.webp\" alt=\"cloth\" class=\"wp-image-263615\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/cloth-375x252.webp 375w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/cloth-1024x687.webp 1024w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/cloth-768x515.webp 768w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/cloth-1536x1030.webp 1536w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/cloth-2048x1374.webp 2048w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/cloth-480x322.webp 480w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/cloth-715x480.webp 715w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/cloth-150x101.webp 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 375px) 100vw, 375px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Avoid tight-fitting clothes as these may allow moisture and sweat to collect between your buttocks. If you have a history of pilonidal sinus or you are at a higher risk of developing one, you should consider cotton-only clothing options.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>6. Weight Management<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-medium\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"375\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/weight-loss-375x250.webp\" alt=\"weight\" class=\"wp-image-258146\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/weight-loss-375x250.webp 375w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/weight-loss-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/weight-loss-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/weight-loss-1536x1024.webp 1536w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/weight-loss-2048x1365.webp 2048w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/weight-loss-741x494.webp 741w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/weight-loss-480x320.webp 480w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/weight-loss-720x480.webp 720w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/weight-loss-150x100.webp 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 375px) 100vw, 375px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>The increased weight comes with a higher risk of developing a pilonidal cyst, you can avoid this by lowering your weight<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC7949598\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">3<\/a><\/sup>. If you already have a healthy BMI (Body Mass Index) then this may not be an option for you. However, if you are overweight or obese, speak with your doctor about a healthy weight loss plan.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>7. Exercise<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-medium\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"375\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/walking-backwards-375x250.webp\" alt=\"walking backwards\" class=\"wp-image-268463\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/walking-backwards-375x250.webp 375w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/walking-backwards-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/walking-backwards-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/walking-backwards-741x494.webp 741w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/walking-backwards-480x320.webp 480w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/walking-backwards-720x480.webp 720w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/walking-backwards-150x100.webp 150w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/walking-backwards.webp 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 375px) 100vw, 375px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><sub>Image Source: freepik.com<\/sub><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Simple, light exercises like regular walks may allow you to deal with the issue of sitting for hours at your job. Sitting for long periods is linked with a higher risk of pilonidal sinus. Any quick, short and easy physical activity you can get during the day for a few minutes may lower your risk of this condition.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_to_Seek_Professional_Help_for_Pilonidal_Sinus\"><\/span><strong>When to Seek Professional Help for Pilonidal Sinus<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The pilonidal sinus will usually require medical attention when it gets infected and causes symptoms. The infection will usually not go away on its own, hence various minor surgical procedures<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/pilonidal-sinus\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">4<\/a><\/sup> may be required. Here are a few signs that you need to contact your doctor at the earliest:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Any signs of growth, lesion, or cyst in the upper buttocks region\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bleeding, pus drainage from the area<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pain, and discomfort due to the growth\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Swelling, tenderness, and reddened skin\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You have had pilonidal sinus before and notice that it has returned\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Your doctor will make a decision based on your medical condition and recommend some of the following options:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Cyst drainage (using very small incisions)\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Injections (for minor cysts)\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Antibiotics (a temporary measure only)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hair removal (LASER procedures or others, to lower the risk of pilonidal sinus developing)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Open surgery (to remove the infected sinus or cysts)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Pilonidal sinus can be a painful condition to live with. Fortunately, there are a variety of self-care options to manage the symptoms at home as well as effective surgical options to choose from. Your doctor will observe and diagnose your condition before suggesting the best surgical procedure for your case. Surgical intervention is usually the only method to permanently get rid of the pilonidal sinus. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/online-doctor-consultation\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Speak with your doctor<\/a><\/strong> to find out what your options are.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\"><\/span><strong>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1700743273504\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>Is pilonidal sinus a serious condition?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Pilonidal sinus is not a serious medical issue until it gets infected. Infected pilonidal sinuses will require some kind of medical intervention.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1700743298529\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>Can pilonidal sinus disappear on its own?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">In some cases the swelling and pus leakage may temporarily decrease, however, it usually returns. For most infected pilonidal sinus cases the issue will not get fixed by itself.\u00a0<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1700743311801\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>How do I know if I have a pilonidal sinus?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">You will notice pain, tenderness, swelling and redness in the area between your buttocks at the top. Pus may leak out of the cyst and you may notice more pain when you sit down. Hair may also be noticed from the pilonidal sinus.\u00a0<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1700743351289\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>Is Pilonidal sinus surgery painful?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">No, pilonidal sinus surgery typically involves less pain than other procedures such as surgeries for fistulas and fissures. During the operation, local anesthesia will ensure that you feel no pain while pain after the procedure will be minimal.\u00a0<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Reference\"><\/span><strong>Reference<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li>Tam A, Steen CJ, Chua J, Yap RJ. Pilonidal sinus: an overview of historical and current management modalities. <em data-start=\"181\" data-end=\"195\">Updates Surg<\/em>. 2024 Mar 25;76(3):803\u2013810. doi:10.1007\/s13304-024-01799-2. Available from:<a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC11129967\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC11129967\/<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nixon AT, Garza RF. Pilonidal Cyst and Sinus. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan\u2013. [updated 2023 Aug 8; cited 2026 Feb 6]. Available from: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK557770\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK557770\/<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cevik M, Dorterler ME, Abbasoglu L. Is conservative treatment an effective option for pilonidal sinus disease in children? <em>Int Wound J<\/em>. 2018 Jun 27;15(5):840\u2013844. doi: 10.1111\/iwj.12936. PMID: 29947121; PMCID: PMC7949598. Available from: <a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC7949598\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC7949598\/<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>NHS. Pilonidal sinus [Internet]. NHS.uk; 2023 Nov 16 [cited 2026 Feb 6]. Available from: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/pilonidal-sinus\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/pilonidal-sinus\/<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Disclaimer<\/em><\/strong><em>: The information provided here is for educational\/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Links and product recommendations in the information<\/em> <em>provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products\/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. 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It usually forms a tunnel or a sac-like depression in the region. Pilonidal sinus is also known as a pilonidal cyst or pilonidal disease and is usually not a concern unless it gets infected1. Infected pilonidal [\u2026]","protected":false},"author":118,"featured_media":160329,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":"","_wp_rev_ctl_limit":""},"categories":[2970],"tags":[648,7130,7131,3698],"acf":[],"_embedded":{"wp:featuredmedia":[{"source_url":"https:\/\/blog-images-1.pharmeasy.in\/blog\/production\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/01222706\/2.jpg"}]},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/160300"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/118"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=160300"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/160300\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":276199,"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/160300\/revisions\/276199"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/160329"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=160300"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=160300"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=160300"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}