Symptoms of Pilonidal Sinus

Pilonidal sinuses are most commonly found in the cleft between the buttocks (the natal cleft). They may also be found in other areas, such as the armpits, groin or navel. Symptoms of a pilonidal sinus include:

• – pain in the affected area
• – swelling
• – redness
• – discharge of pus or blood from the sinus
• – a foul-smelling odour
• – fever, chills and fatigue

Pilonidal Sinus Treatment Options

To relieve your symptoms, your doctor may recommend one of the following outpatient treatments:

• – Surgical excision: This is the most common treatment for pilonidal sinus. The surgeon will make an incision in the skin and remove the infected tissue. The wound will then be closed with stitches or staples.
• – Laser ablation: This procedure uses a laser to destroy the infected tissue.
• – Cryotherapy: This treatment uses freezing temperatures to destroy the infected tissue.
• – Electrocautery: This procedure uses an electric current to destroy the infected tissue.

Why to not delay Pilonidal Sinus treatment?

• – If left untreated, a pilonidal sinus can lead to serious infections.
• – Can be extremely painful and make it difficult to sit or walk.
• – Can also cause abscesses (pockets of pus) to form in the tissue around the sinus.
• – If an abscess bursts, it can lead to sepsis, a potentially life-threatening condition.
• – Pilonidal sinus infections can also cause fever, chills, and fatigue.
• – Early Treatment for a pilonidal sinus is typically quick and easy, and can usually be done in an outpatient setting.
• – Delaying treatment can lead to more serious complications that may require hospitalization.