Ganglion Cysts

Ganglion Cysts appear as lumps in the wrist and cysts under the skin. They occur near the tendons and joints of a person’s hands. Ganglion Cysts are mainly found on a person’s wrist joints. However, some doctors have found Ganglion Cysts on ankles and feet.

Like other cysts, Ganglion cysts are filled with squishy fluid and sometimes can cause infections, complicating the condition. The cysts are shaped like an oval and are easy to spot as the larger they get, the more they rise under a person’s skin.

Most of the time, Ganglion Cysts are small and are forgotten. They rarely cause pain unless they are more significant than an inch in diameter and near a nerve. If they are pressed against a nerve, the Ganglion Cysts cause pain and can make it hard to move your joints. If the nerve is damaged, a person can also lose feeling in their joints and the general area.

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Causes of Ganglion Cysts 

There is not much information about cysts, and experts are still trying to understand how they form. So, for now, there is no exact known cause.

However, risk groups may get Ganglion Cysts more frequently than others. Some people also believe that these cysts are hereditary, as studies have shown a strong connection between having a parent with Ganglion Cysts and developing one later in age.

Risk Groups

Three particular risk groups may suffer from these cysts frequently. The first group is women between the ages of 20 and 40. Although it is more common in women above the age of 20, it does not mean that girls under 20 can’t develop these cysts.

Doctors have also found Ganglion Cysts in patients who have Arthritis in their wrist and fingers. Arthritis usually causes the joints and bones to rub against each other, resulting in cysts on the tendons and joints.

If you have injured your joints or the tendons in your feet or hands, it can also cause Ganglion Cysts. Trauma patients are often seen with these cysts due to the damage.

Symptoms You May Have

Nearly all Ganglion Cysts appear the same. However, everyone suffers differently. The cysts look like tiny fluid sacs under the skin. As they worsen, you can see swelling and red inflammation on the skin. It is also painful as it worsens. However, you may not notice any symptoms during the first few stages.

You should go to a doctor, however, if you notice any of the following signs:

• Bleeding
• Consistent Swelling
• Sharp Pains
• Nerve 

Diagnosing Cysts

Ganglion Cysts are easy to diagnose because they are a visible condition. The most common and quick diagnostic test is to shine a light through the mass. The light penetrates the cyst and shows a dark mass or a clear liquid.

Depending on the color of the cyst, your doctor can then figure out the next set of treatments. Since many cysts occur because of an underlying condition, your doctor will also need to take a few extra tests to figure out any underlying causes.

Your doctor may recommend scans, bloodwork, and a dermatologist visit, depending on the symptoms you experience. The most common cause of Ganglion Cysts is Arthritis, an X-Ray or CT scan will show the deterioration of the joints and any inflammation associated with Arthritis.

Treatment Options for You

There are a few ways to treat Ganglion Cysts, including entirely getting rid of the cysts. In addition, doctors may undergo Aspiration, where a thin needle drains the fluid inside the cyst.

If the cyst is large and the liquid is not clear, you may need to immobilize the cyst. This works by shrinking the Ganglion Cyst with a device. For example, it could be a wrap or a sling.

Getting rid of Ganglion Cysts will not prevent them from coming back, especially if there is an underlying cause. This is why it is important also to treat the underlying condition, which could be Arthritis, trauma to the joints, and Diabetes.

Boosting Joint System Health

To prevent this joint condition, you can boost your joint health system at home. Unfortunately, although this does help lower your chances, you can still develop joint problems.

Exercise is an excellent choice because your body releases over 40 different anti-inflammatory properties while you burn and exercise. Doctors recommend exercising using light equipment and water if you already have joint pain. Swimming is an excellent choice because it reduces the pressure on your joints.

There are also many over-the-counter Joint supplements you can take daily. For example, Glucosamine is a natural component of our bodies. However, the levels drop as we age. This is a problem since Glucosamine helps repair cartilage and releases anti-inflammatory properties to reduce pain.

Chondroitin is another supplement that can be used as a treatment, management plan, and preventative technique. Scientists have found that chondroitin decreases the need for painkillers with its active anti-inflammatory ingredients. For these supplements to work, though, you need to take them the correct way and frequently.

You should know supplements are not treatments or cures. Supplements cannot eliminate all cysts, but they may prevent them from coming back after your primary treatment. Some people also drink Green Tea daily for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

How to Live with Ganglion Cysts?

Ganglion Cysts are not pleasant but rarely life-threatening. While it may be frightening to watch a small mass appear under your skin, do not worry too much, it is likely not a case for concern! These cysts are only dangerous if they burst. Try not to squish or harm the cyst, as the fluid can pop and cause an infection in your body, spreading to the rest of your joints.

Thankfully, Ganglion Cysts are not common. There are many ways to treat them that are minimally invasive. It is easier to prevent them by living a healthy lifestyle and treating the underlying condition.

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FAQ

1. Can my Ganglion Cyst go away on its own? Yes, although it’s not likely, and medical intervention such as cyst draining or surgical removal may be necessary.
2. Are Ganglion Cysts serious? Although Ganglion Cysts may have an undesirable look, they are usually in no way dangerous. However, it is important for your doctor to check the cyst to ensure it does not grow in between your bones or push on nerves/arteries.

Healthier Me Today is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment, always consult with your healthcare professional. Stay healthy!