Ganglion Cyst

What is a ganglion cyst?

A ganglion cyst is a swollen, closed sac under the skin. The sac is attached to the sheath of a tendon or may be attached to a joint. The cyst contains fluid similar to the fluid that is in your joints. It can vary in size from a small pea to a golf ball. Ganglion cysts most often occur on the wrist, at the end joint of a finger, or at the base of a finger. They may also occur on the foot.

How does it occur?

The cause of ganglion cysts is not known.

What are the symptoms?

You may feel discomfort or pain. Sometimes the area of the cyst becomes swollen or disfigured.

How is it diagnosed?

Your health care provider may stick a needle into the cyst to take a sample of the fluid inside it.

How is it treated?

Unless a cyst hurts, it does not need to be treated. If it does hurt, put ice on it for 20 to 30 minutes 3 or 4 times a day, or at least once daily, until it becomes less painful. Taking an anti-inflammatory drug, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, may also help.

The fluid can be removed with a needle, but the cysts tend to fill up again with fluid.

Do not try to smash the cyst with a heavy object. Even if this home remedy succeeds at first, the cyst will almost always fill up again with fluid. In addition, you could seriously damage your wrist or finger.

If a ganglion cyst is painful, limits activity, or is unsightly, it can be surgically removed. Surgery to remove the cyst requires making a small cut through the skin. The cut usually heals quickly and leaves a small scar.

How long will the effects last?

Sometimes cysts go away whether they are treated or not. If your cyst is painful or interferes with your activities, you may need to have surgery. Even with surgical treatment, a cyst may come back.

How can I take care of myself?

Follow the treatment recommended by your health care provider.

How can I help prevent ganglion cysts?

There is no known way to prevent these cysts because their cause is not known.