A ganglion cyst is a medical condition that looks like a fluid-filled sac or blister under the skin, especially in the wrist or ankle area. These cysts are usually harmless and may not cause pain. They are often associated with tendons or joints. Ganglion cysts are felt as a swelling that is transparent or yellow in color because it is filled with a viscous fluid. They can vary in size and sometimes shrink or disappear against pressure. They are often noticed as an aesthetic or symptomatic nuisance.
What are the Symptoms of a Ganglion Cyst?
Ganglion cyst symptoms can vary from person to person and are often recognized as a cosmetic or symptomatic problem. Symptoms of a wrist cyst can be the following:
Swelling: It is a swelling that usually appears under the skin and is mostly located in the wrist or ankle area. It can vary in size.
Color and Texture: The swelling feels like a transparent or yellow blister and usually contains soft tissue.
Pain or Discomfort: Ganglion cysts are usually painless, but in some cases there may be mild pain or discomfort.
Size Changes with Movement: The cyst can grow or shrink, especially during movement. This is due to the fluid inside the cyst changing due to pressure.
Sensitivity to Pressure: Putting pressure on the cyst can cause tenderness or pain.
Why does a ganglion cyst occur?
There is no definitive information on exactly why ganglion cysts form, but their formation has been attributed to various theories. Possible causes may include the following:
Tendon or Joint Irritation: Most ganglion cysts are associated with tendons or joints. Cysts can form as a result of repeated irritation or irritation of tendons or joints.
Accumulation of Fluid in the Joints: According to some theories, ganglion cysts can form when fluid in the joint cavity accumulates inside the cyst.
Injury or Trauma: Trauma or injuries to the wrist or wrist area can trigger ganglion cyst formation.
Genetic Predisposition: Family history can increase the risk of ganglion cysts.
Rheumatoid Arthritis or Osteoarthritis: Joint diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis, such as joint inflammation or arthritis, can trigger ganglion cyst formation.
Although the cause of ganglion cysts is not fully understood, most of the time they are harmless and do not require treatment. However, if the cyst grows or causes pain, it may need to be evaluated and treated by a health professional.
What are the risk factors for ganglion cysts?
Some risk factors that may increase the risk of developing a ganglion cyst include
Gender: Women have a higher risk of ganglion cyst formation than men.
Age: It is usually more common in young or middle-aged adults, but can occur at any age.
Family History: Family history can increase the risk of ganglion cysts. It can occur in more than one person in the same family.
Repetitive Movements: Performing repetitive movements in certain sports or occupations can irritate tendons or joints and cause ganglion cyst formation.
Rheumatoid Arthritis or Osteoarthritis: Joint diseases can increase the risk of ganglion cysts.
Past Trauma or Injuries: Traumas or injuries, especially in the wrist or wrist area, can trigger ganglion cyst formation.
Genetic Predisposition: Family history or genetic factors can affect the risk of ganglion cyst formation.
How is a ganglion cyst treated?
Ganglion cyst treatment may vary depending on the size of the cyst, symptoms and the patient's comfort. Treatment options may include:
Observation: Small, painless and symptomless ganglion cysts usually do not require treatment. In this case, your doctor may observe the cyst regularly.
Needle Aspiration (Drainage): In large or symptomatic cysts, your doctor may use a thin needle to draw fluid out of the cyst (aspiration). This can help shrink the cyst and relieve symptoms. However, this method carries the possibility of the cyst forming again.
Surgical Intervention: If the cyst grows, causes pain or is aesthetically unpleasant, surgical intervention may be necessary. This procedure involves the complete removal of the cyst. Recovery after surgery is important and you should follow your doctor's instructions.
Injection Treatments: In some cases, corticosteroid medications may be injected into the cyst. This can help shrink the cyst and relieve pain.
Physical Therapy: Physical therapy may be recommended to strengthen muscles strained by the cyst and increase range of motion.