Pilonidal sinus (ring hairs)

Pilonidal sinus is a skin problem that can occur in the nooks and crannies of the lower back. This blog post discusses what pilonidal sinus is, its causes, symptoms, how it is diagnosed, treatment and prevention methods. It is known that pilonidal sinus is a common condition that affects many people. In this article, along with information about the prevalence and effects of the disease, it will also be discussed how pilonidal sinus can be treated and how it is possible to prevent it. If you want to know more about pilonidal sinus, keep reading!

What is a pilonidal sinus?

Pilonidal sinus is a skin disease that occurs in the sacral region (coccyx). It is also often referred to as a pilonidal sinus or pilonidal cyst. This condition is characterized by the hair follicles or hairs forming a sac or tunnel under the skin in the coccyx. Pilonidal sinus usually affects young adults and is more common in men.

What causes pilonidal sinus?

The exact cause of pilonidal sinus is unknown, but it is believed that some factors play a role in its formation. One of the most common reasons is that the hair follicles get stuck or grow in the coccyx. In addition, excessive hair growth, clogged pores, friction, autoimmune reactions and genetic predisposition can also be effective in the formation of pilonidal sinus.

What are the symptoms of pilonidal sinus?

The symptoms of pilonidal sinus may vary from person to person, but the most common symptoms can be listed as follows: pain, swelling, redness or tenderness in the coccyx area, discharge or pus accumulation in the sinus opening, hair growth, a feeling of stiffness or mass on the skin. In some cases, the pilonidal sinus may become infected, which can cause more pain, swelling and fever.

Pain and swelling in the coccyx area

Redness or tenderness

Discharge or pus accumulation in the sinus opening

Hair growth

Skin stiffness or mass feeling

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a dermatologist or specialist. You need to get professional help for the correct diagnosis and treatment.

What causes pilonidal sinus?

Pilonidal sinus is an infectious disease in which hair follicles and skin cells accumulate. The causes of pilonidal sinus can be due to various factors. Firstly, the blockage of the hair follicle in the area of pubescence and the occurrence of infection is usually the cause of a pilonidal sinus. This type of blockage usually occurs due to a strand of hair that has settled in the sacral area. However, it is not known for sure what causes pilonidal sinus. Some experts suggest that factors such as a combination of genetic predisposition, a stuck strand of hair, friction or infection play a role.

Another factor related to the formation of a pilonidal sinus is the growth of a hole formed by a stuck strand of hair into the skin. This hole forms one and more sinuses (tunnels) under the skin. The sinuses become a cavity, which causes the accumulation of hairs, dirt and other foreign substances.

However, the exact cause of pilonidal sinus formation is unknown and there are several different theories. Some of these theories are the following: a stuck strand of hair can cause irritation of the hairs and the formation of a pilonidal sinus. The way of sitting, constant friction and a sedentary lifestyle can increase the risk of pilonidal sinus. In addition, excessive hair growth, excessive sweating and unhygienic environments can also increase the risk of pilonidal sinus formation.

What are the symptoms of pilonidal sinus?

First of all, we need to focus on what is a pilonidal sinus and how it is formed. Pilonidal sinus is a skin disease that occurs in the sacrococcygeal region (coccyx). This disease usually occurs as a result of a congenital predisposition or blockage of hair follicles. Symptoms of pilonidal sinus appear in the form of severe pain, redness, swelling, tenderness and discharge.

Pilonidal sinus symptoms usually occur in the sacrococcygeal region. Patients usually feel pain and discomfort in the coccyx area. The pain may increase when sitting, after prolonged inactivity, or when pressure is applied. Redness, swelling and tenderness may also occur in the coccyx area. In addition, discharge may also occur if the pilonidal sinus is infected.

Pilonidal sinus is a disease usually found in young men. Factors such as prolonged sitting, excessive sweating, frequent hair removal, obesity and constant friction can contribute to the formation of pilonidal sinus. In addition, a lack of hygiene can also facilitate the occurrence of this disease.

Pilonidal Sinus Symptoms:

Severe pain

Redness

Swelling

Sensitivity

Discharge

How is pilonidal sinus diagnosed?

Pilonidal sinus is a skin disease that can be difficult to diagnose because it often does not have obvious symptoms. However, some symptoms and physical examination methods can help in the diagnostic process.

During the examination, the doctor looks at redness, swelling or dimpling of the skin in the patient's waist area. An in-depth examination of this area is important to detect the sinus. The patient's description of the symptoms may also support the diagnosis. However, these symptoms may also be associated with another skin infection or abscess, so additional tests may be needed to make a October diagnosis.

In some cases, your doctor may take blood, pus, or tissue samples from the sinus area. These samples are examined for laboratory tests and can be used to make the correct diagnosis. In addition, imaging tests such as ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can also be used.

During the diagnosis process, your doctor will discuss with you in detail. It is important to describe your symptoms in detail and show the skin area. This way, your doctor can make a more accurate diagnosis and create the appropriate treatment plan.

Methods of treatment and prevention of pilonidal sinus

Pilonidal sinus is an infectious disease that has settled under the skin in the area called the sacrum. Some methods can be applied for the treatment and prevention of this disease. Here are the methods of treatment and prevention of pilonidal sinus:

Antibiotic use: If a pilonidal sinus infection has started, your doctor may recommend antibiotic therapy. Antibiotics can speed up healing by controlling the infection.

Surgical intervention: If pilonidal sinus infection has become a recurrent problem, surgical intervention may be required. Surgical treatment options may include complete removal of the sinus or Decontamination in an open manner. This procedure can ensure that the infection is controlled and healing.

Decontamination of the hair area: Pilonidal sinus causes also include accumulation of hair and infection. For this reason, one of the most important steps to prevent pilonidal sinus is regular cleaning of the hair area. Keeping the skin area clean can prevent the formation of sinus.Jul.

Comparison of Pilonidal Sinus Treatment and Prevention Methods

Treatment/Prevention Method Advantages Disadvantages

Antibiotic use - It can control the infection quickly.- It is less invasive compared to surgical intervention. - Antibiotic resistance can occur.- The healing process can be prolonged.

Surgical intervention - Can completely remove the sinus.- It can reduce the risk of recurrent infections. - Surgical risks and side effects may be found.- The healing process can be long.

Cleaning the skin area - Can prevent sinus formation.- It can reduce the risk of infection. - It is not a complete treatment method by itself.- Adequate cleaning may not be provided.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a pilonidal sinus?

Pilonidal sinus is a skin infection that occurs in the sacrococcygeal region. This condition is characterized by the formation of a tunnel called a sinus.

What causes pilonidal sinus?

The main cause of pilonidal sinus is the depletion of hair follicles. Hairs that are subjected to constant friction in this area and get into the hair follicle can lead to infections and sinus formation.

What are the symptoms of pilonidal sinus?

Symptoms of pilonidal sinus may include: pain, swelling, redness, discharge, bad odor, abscess formation.

How is pilonidal sinus diagnosed?

Pilonidal sinus can usually be diagnosed by physical examination. The doctor may check for symptoms such as redness, swelling, discharge or abscess in the area. Sometimes imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI can also be performed.

Pilonidal sinus treatment and prevention methods

Pilonidal sinus is a condition that usually requires surgical intervention. Treatment usually involves cleaning the sinus, drainage of the abscess, and complete removal of the sinus. Prevention methods include ensuring hygiene regularly, opting for clothing that reduces friction, and regularly Decontaminating the area.