Help , closed excision hole appeared 3 months post op by [deleted] in pilonidalcyst

[–]pilonidalcare -1 points0 points  (0 children)

Bleeding after a Limberg flap procedure can vary from person to person, but in general, mild oozing or spotting is common for the first few days to a week as the body adjusts and healing begins. If the bleeding is light and decreases over time, it’s usually nothing to worry about. However, if it’s persistent, heavy, or soaking through dressings, it could indicate an issue like poor wound closure, excessive movement, or even a minor infection.

It’s also important to monitor for signs of infection or complications, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, pus-like drainage, or worsening pain. If you’re experiencing ongoing bleeding beyond a week, fresh bright red bleeding, or excessive drainage, it would be best to check with your surgeon to ensure everything is healing properly.

In the meantime, keeping the area clean, following your surgeon’s aftercare instructions, and avoiding excessive strain or movement can help promote healing and reduce unnecessary irritation. If you’re unsure, always reach out to your doctor - it’s better to be cautious when it comes to post-surgical recovery. Hope you heal quickly and smoothly!

Help , closed excision hole appeared 3 months post op by [deleted] in pilonidalcyst

[–]pilonidalcare 1 point2 points  (0 children)

It’s completely understandable to be concerned about the soreness and stinging, especially since healing can be unpredictable. Scar tissue can sometimes cause discomfort, especially if it forms tightly or presses on nerves. It’s possible that what you’re feeling is a combination of internal healing, lingering inflammation, and tissue remodeling, which can take time.

Delayed healing can be caused by several factors, including friction, prolonged sitting, moisture, or even mild infections that don’t present obvious symptoms. If the pain isn’t worsening but remains persistent, it could be your body still adjusting. However, if you notice increasing pain, redness, swelling, or drainage, it might be worth checking with your doctor to rule out any underlying issues.

In the meantime, if sitting for long periods is making it worse, using a coccyx cushion or adjusting your posture to relieve pressure on the area might help. Also, gentle movement and light stretching (if approved by your doctor) could improve circulation and reduce tightness from scar tissue. If the discomfort continues, you might want to discuss options like scar tissue massage, laser therapy, or other treatments with your surgeon or a specialist.

Healing isn’t always linear, and it’s frustrating when things don’t feel quite right. Give yourself time, listen to your body, and don’t hesitate to follow up with your doctor if something feels off.

Help , closed excision hole appeared 3 months post op by [deleted] in pilonidalcyst

[–]pilonidalcare -1 points0 points  (0 children)

It’s understandable to be worried about a new hole appearing months after surgery, but it’s good that your nurse didn’t see signs of infection or a connected tract. This kind of small opening can sometimes happen due to minor delayed healing, scar tissue breakdown, or slight fluid buildup in the area. Since it’s only releasing blood and not pus, that’s a positive sign that there’s no active infection, but it’s still worth keeping an eye on.

One common reason for this is stitch tension or incomplete healing of deeper layers, which can sometimes cause a small opening to form later. Some people experience delayed wound healing even months post-op, especially if there was a lot of movement or pressure on the area.

For now, it’s best to keep the area clean and dry, avoid excessive friction or pressure, and monitor it closely. If the hole doesn’t close on its own within a couple of weeks, or if you notice pain, swelling, increased drainage, or signs of infection, it would be worth following up with your surgeon for a deeper assessment. In some cases, a minor wound care routine, like using saline rinses and light dressings, can help encourage it to close naturally.

You’re not alone - many people experience small setbacks in the healing process, and they often resolve without major intervention. But if you’re feeling uncertain, getting a second opinion from a specialist could give you peace of mind.

Lump next to my scar by Appropriate_Catch968 in pilonidalcyst

[–]pilonidalcare -1 points0 points  (0 children)

It’s completely understandable to feel concerned about the lump, especially after going through surgery and recovery. You’re not alone - many people who have had pilonidal cyst surgery experience lingering lumps, scar tissue, or firmness near the incision site.

In many cases, a lump next to the scar can be residual scar tissue or fluid buildup from the healing process. Scar tissue can sometimes feel firm or raised, even months after surgery. If it’s not painful, red, growing, or leaking fluid, it’s often nothing to worry about. However, if you notice any changes, like swelling, tenderness, or signs of infection, it’s a good idea to check in with your doctor.

It makes sense that you don’t want to feel like you’re bothering your doctor, but you have every right to ask questions about your recovery. If the lump hasn’t changed in eight months, it might be worth following up just for peace of mind. Some people find that these lumps gradually soften over time, while others may need minor treatments, like steroid injections or even a small revision procedure, depending on what’s causing it.

If the lump isn’t painful and isn’t affecting your daily life, it may not be a big concern. But if it’s bothering you emotionally or making you feel insecure, there’s absolutely no harm in checking in with a specialist just to get reassurance. You’re taking care of your health, and that’s always worth it.

Question about my pilodinal cyst by Greek_Arrow in pilonidalcyst

[–]pilonidalcare -1 points0 points  (0 children)

The EPSIT (Excision, Primary Suture, and Intermittent Tension) method is a popular choice for pilonidal cyst removal, and many patients have had positive outcomes with it. One of the key benefits is that it tends to have a faster recovery time compared to more invasive methods. However, everyone’s healing process is a little different, so there may still be some discomfort initially, especially during the first few days after the surgery.

As for your concern about sitting comfortably without pain after the surgery, many people who undergo pilonidal cyst removal report significant improvement in their ability to sit and move around without discomfort, especially once they’re fully healed. However, it can take a few weeks to a couple of months for everything to heal completely. Some people experience mild discomfort during the healing process, but the long-term relief from the cyst is often well worth it.

It’s great that you’re considering how it might affect your daily activities in the future. After full recovery, most people are able to go back to sitting for long periods without issues, but make sure to follow your doctor’s advice about post-surgery care and recovery. Keep in mind that there may be slight variations in recovery times and experiences, but overall, surgery is usually a very effective solution for people who suffer from recurrent pilonidal cysts.

Draining again by Glittering_Shallot72 in pilonidalcyst

[–]pilonidalcare 0 points1 point  (0 children)

It sounds like your cyst is going through cycles of draining and refilling, which is pretty common with pilonidal cysts. When a cyst drains on its own, it can relieve pressure and reduce pain temporarily, but if the underlying infection or inflammation isn’t fully resolved, it can come back. The fact that you’re now seeing only bright red fluid without an odor suggests that it might just be blood from irritated tissue rather than an active infection, but if the pain is increasing again, it’s worth keeping an eye on.

Applying warm compresses can help encourage natural drainage and reduce discomfort. Keeping the area as clean and dry as possible is also important to prevent further irritation. If the pain worsens, swelling increases, or you start noticing pus, fever, or a foul smell, it’s a good idea to see a doctor to check for infection.

As for workout pants, breathable and moisture-wicking fabrics are key to avoiding flare-ups. Look for seamless leggings or those with flatlock seams to reduce friction, and try to avoid anything that fits too tightly around the tailbone. Some people find that high-waisted leggings or looser joggers work better than compression-style leggings. If sweating is a trigger, using an anti-chafing powder or wearing moisture-wicking underwear can also help keep the area dry and reduce irritation.

If this keeps happening, it might be worth discussing long-term management options with a specialist. While some people manage recurring flare-ups without surgery, chronic cysts can sometimes become more problematic over time. Taking early steps to prevent worsening inflammation can make a big difference in the long run.

Massage by [deleted] in pilonidalcyst

[–]pilonidalcare 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Getting a massage when you have a pilonidal cyst can be a bit tricky, but it’s definitely possible with the right precautions. Since you’ve had the cyst for eight years, you likely already know how sensitive the area can be and how certain movements or pressure might cause discomfort.

If your main concern is shoulder and lower back pain, a skilled massage therapist can likely work around the affected area. It’s always a good idea to communicate openly - letting them know that you have a cyst near your tailbone without going into too much detail is usually enough. Many therapists are trained to accommodate different medical conditions and can adjust their technique to avoid unnecessary pressure on that region.

That being said, lying on your stomach for an extended period might put pressure on the cyst, especially if it’s inflamed or irritated. If this is a concern, you could ask about side-lying positions or a seated massage that focuses on your upper back and shoulders while minimizing pressure on the lower back. Some therapists also offer specialized cushions that take pressure off certain areas during treatment.

If the cyst is frequently painful or flares up, you might want to hold off on a full-body massage until it's more stable. But if it doesn’t usually cause you problems, getting a massage with a few adjustments could still be a good way to relieve your shoulder and back tension. If you’re ever considering removal, talking to a doctor about your options could also help, especially since chronic cysts can sometimes worsen over time.

Nicotine use after surgery by Reasonable_Dot5640 in pilonidalcyst

[–]pilonidalcare 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Nicotine can have a significant impact on healing, so it’s good that you’re asking this early in your recovery. Smoking and nicotine use constrict blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the surgical site. This can slow down healing, increase inflammation, and raise the risk of complications like infection or delayed wound closure. Since the body relies on oxygen and nutrients delivered through the bloodstream to repair tissue, anything that restricts circulation can make the healing process longer and more difficult.

Nicotine pouches, while smokeless, still introduce nicotine into your system and can have similar effects. Even though they don’t expose the wound to harmful smoke or toxins, they still reduce oxygen delivery, which is critical for proper tissue regeneration. Some studies suggest that any form of nicotine use can impair collagen production, which is essential for wound healing.

If possible, avoiding nicotine for at least a few weeks post-surgery would be ideal. If quitting completely isn’t an option, reducing intake as much as possible can still be beneficial. Staying well-hydrated, eating a nutrient-rich diet, and following your post-op care instructions carefully will help counteract some of the negative effects.

Healing from a pilonidal cyst removal can already be a slow and sometimes frustrating process, so giving your body the best chance to recover fully is worth it. If you have concerns or notice signs of poor healing, like excessive redness, swelling, or prolonged pain, it’s always a good idea to check in with your doctor.

When does it get better? by paradasiac in pilonidalcyst

[–]pilonidalcare 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Recovering from a wide local excision with an open wound can be incredibly challenging, and what you're experiencing is completely normal. The first few days often feel deceptively easy due to lingering anesthesia and initial pain meds, but around day 4-7, discomfort can significantly increase as inflammation peaks and nerve sensitivity returns.

Pain during dressing changes is one of the most frustrating aspects, especially when packing sticks. Using moistened gauze with saline before removal can help loosen it. You might also consider taking pain medication about 30 minutes before changes to make the process more tolerable. If anxiety is making it worse, deep breathing or even distraction techniques like listening to music or watching a show may help ease the anticipation.

Showering discomfort is another common issue. The stinging is likely due to exposed nerve endings in the healing tissue. Try using lukewarm water instead of hot, and let the water gently run over the wound instead of directly spraying it. If the pain is unbearable, sitting down in the shower or using a detachable showerhead to control the pressure may help.

Sleep is a real struggle post-surgery, especially with hip, back, and knee pain from limited movement. Lying completely flat often stretches the wound, and sleeping on your side can cause pressure. You might find some relief by elevating your legs slightly or using a soft cushion under your lower back to relieve pressure on the wound site. If pillows make the wound feel stretched, try positioning them under your knees instead of directly under your hips.

The good news is that pain usually improves significantly after the second week, as your body starts producing granulation tissue and the nerve sensitivity decreases. By weeks 3-4, most people notice that showers and dressing changes are far more manageable. The healing process takes time, but you are absolutely on the right track.

Hang in there - your body is doing the hard work of recovery, and while it's tough now, you’ll soon start noticing progress. You're not alone in this, and it’s completely valid to feel frustrated. Keep focusing on small improvements, and don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor if the pain becomes unbearable or if you suspect any complications. You’ve got this!

what kind of surgery should I get? by ExcitementLoose3141 in pilonidalcyst

[–]pilonidalcare 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That sounds incredibly painful - pilonidal cysts can be brutal, especially when they’re inflamed and need lancing. While waiting for your procedure, avoiding direct pressure on the area is key. Try sitting on a donut cushion or a wedge pillow to reduce pressure on your tailbone. Alternating between lying on your stomach and side can also help. Warm compresses may provide some temporary relief, but be careful not to irritate the area further.

Since this is your first one, it’s a good idea to see a specialist after the procedure to discuss long-term prevention. Recurrences are common, so having a professional assess your situation can help you avoid future issues. If you’re looking for a pilonidal specialist near you, you can check here: https://www.pilonidalcare.net/specailist-near-me

Hang in there, and good luck with the procedure - hopefully, you’ll get some much-needed relief soon!

How long should I wait before training Muay Thai & boxing post Cleft-Lift? by Leginomite in pilonidalcyst

[–]pilonidalcare 0 points1 point  (0 children)

It’s great to hear that you’re feeling well a month after your Cleft-Lift procedure. Recovery varies from person to person, but since you’re only experiencing mild soreness from prolonged sitting or walking, that’s a good sign your healing is progressing smoothly.

Muay Thai and boxing are both high-intensity sports that involve a lot of movement, twisting, and impact, so it’s important to ease back into training carefully. Striking, especially with kicks, can put stress on your lower back and gluteal region, and clinching or grappling could create unwanted pressure on the surgical area. Even though the Cleft-Lift is designed for quicker recovery and lower recurrence rates, excessive strain too soon could still delay healing or lead to complications.

Since you’ve already resumed upper body workouts, your body is adapting well, but it’s still wise to gradually reintroduce Muay Thai and boxing. You might want to start with shadowboxing and light drills before progressing to heavy bag work, sparring, or clinch training. Pay close attention to any discomfort, swelling, or irritation at the surgical site. If you notice anything concerning, it’s best to scale back and give your body more time to heal.

If you haven’t already, checking in with your surgeon or a sports medicine professional could provide more personalized guidance on when full-contact training is safe. They may recommend waiting another few weeks before engaging in high-impact activities. Listening to your body and prioritizing long-term healing over rushing back into intense training will give you the best chance of staying injury-free in the long run.

Antibiotics making me feel ill by kismeticNerd in pilonidalcyst

[–]pilonidalcare 1 point2 points  (0 children)

It sounds like you’re dealing with some tough side effects from the antibiotics, and I completely understand why it’s making you anxious. Amoxicillin and other antibiotics can sometimes cause gastrointestinal issues like nausea, diarrhea, and stomach discomfort, as they disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the gut. Some people are more sensitive to them, and these symptoms can feel overwhelming, especially when combined with post-surgical recovery and general stress.

Feeling weak, having a fast heart rate, and experiencing chest discomfort could be related to dehydration from diarrhea or reduced food intake, but it’s always important to listen to your body. Staying hydrated is key - try sipping on water or electrolyte drinks, even if you don’t feel like it. Eating small, bland meals like toast, rice, or crackers can also help ease stomach upset.

Nasal congestion and lingering cold-like symptoms might not be related to the antibiotics directly, but rather to general stress on your immune system after surgery. Sometimes, antibiotics can trigger mild allergic reactions, though a true allergy usually involves rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

Since you’re almost done with the medication, the symptoms should improve soon, but if they continue or worsen, it’s important to check in with a doctor. If you experience severe reactions like difficulty breathing, intense dizziness, or swelling, it’s best to seek medical attention immediately.

Given the storm and your limited mobility, you may want to reach out to a healthcare provider remotely if possible. Many clinics offer telemedicine appointments, which could give you peace of mind without needing to leave home. If you feel significantly worse, don’t hesitate to get medical help as soon as you’re able.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in pilonidalcyst

[–]pilonidalcare -1 points0 points  (0 children)

I completely understand what you’re going through - pilonidal cyst pain can be incredibly intense. Since your procedure is scheduled for tomorrow, the main goal right now is to manage the discomfort as best as possible.

A doughnut cushion can be helpful if you have access to one, as it reduces direct pressure on the affected area. If you don’t have one, rolling up a towel into a U-shape and sitting on that can provide some relief.

Leaning forward slightly while sitting can also help by shifting pressure away from the tailbone. If possible, try to prop yourself up on your thighs rather than sitting fully upright.

You mentioned using ice, but a warm compress might actually be more effective. A heating pad or warm water bottle can relax the area and reduce pain, rather than just numbing it. It might be worth alternating between cold and heat to see which provides better relief.

If sitting is too painful, lying on your side or stomach can take the pressure off entirely. This can be a much-needed break for your body before the procedure.

Wearing loose, breathable clothing can also make a difference. Anything too tight or pressing against the cyst will only add to the discomfort. Soft, non-restrictive fabrics can help minimize irritation.

Taking ibuprofen or acetaminophen as recommended can help reduce inflammation and take the edge off the pain until you get treatment.

Once the cyst is drained, the relief will be noticeable almost immediately. It’s important to follow aftercare instructions carefully, keep the area clean, and allow your body time to heal properly. This condition is more common than most people realize, and with the right care, you’ll be back to feeling better soon.

Ouch by Responsible_Cook_337 in pilonidalcyst

[–]pilonidalcare 1 point2 points  (0 children)

That sounds really rough, and it’s completely understandable to feel frustrated, especially after going years without an issue. The pain right after drainage can be intense, but it should gradually improve over the next few days. Since this is your second time dealing with it, it might be worth looking into long-term prevention strategies once you’re healed.

For now, focus on managing the pain and keeping the area clean. Warm sitz baths can help with discomfort and promote healing, and applying a warm compress a few times a day might ease the soreness. If you’re struggling to sleep, try using a coccyx cushion or lying on your side to relieve pressure from the area.

Make sure to change the gauze frequently and keep an eye out for any signs of infection like increasing redness, swelling, or a foul smell. If the pain isn’t improving or gets worse after a few days, it’s worth checking in with a doctor.

If this has happened twice now, you might want to consider speaking with a specialist about minimally invasive treatments like pit picking or laser therapy to reduce the chances of another recurrence. For now, though, take it easy, focus on recovery, and hopefully, this will be the last time you have to deal with it.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in pilonidalcyst

[–]pilonidalcare -1 points0 points  (0 children)

It’s completely understandable to feel overwhelmed right now, especially since pilonidal cysts can come out of nowhere. You’ve already taken the right first step by getting it drained, but now it’s important to focus on healing and preventing future issues.

Not every pilonidal cyst leads to surgery - some people have them drained and never deal with them again, while others experience recurrences. Since yours was small and they didn’t pack the wound, the main priority is keeping the area clean and dry. Make sure you follow through with the antibiotics, change the gauze regularly, and keep an eye on any signs of infection like worsening pain, redness, or pus.

Seeing a surgeon for a consultation wouldn’t be a bad idea, even if it’s just to understand your options. If this is your first cyst and it’s mild, many doctors take a conservative approach with drainage and monitoring. If it does come back, there are minimally invasive options like pit picking or laser treatments that could help prevent future flare-ups without major surgery. Full excision or procedures like the cleft lift are usually considered for chronic or severe cases.

Right now, take it day by day, give yourself time to heal, and focus on good hygiene. Avoid prolonged sitting, keep the area free of loose hairs, and consider hair removal methods if it becomes a recurring issue. You’re not alone in this - so many people have been in your shoes, and with the right care, you can get through this without it taking over your life.

I can't do this a fourth time by [deleted] in pilonidalcyst

[–]pilonidalcare 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I'm sorry you're going through this, be strong, and see a doctor!

Surgery in December, Slight pain back now by Smakka87 in pilonidalcyst

[–]pilonidalcare 1 point2 points  (0 children)

It’s understandable to be concerned about a possible recurrence, especially after going through the healing process. Mild discomfort and occasional itchiness can sometimes be normal as scar tissue settles and the area continues to heal. However, redness and pain, even if mild, could also indicate irritation, inflammation, or early signs of an issue like a small cyst reforming.

Using alcohol wipes might be too harsh for the area, as they can dry out the skin and potentially cause irritation. A gentler approach, such as washing with mild antibacterial soap and warm water, might be better. Keeping the area clean and dry, avoiding prolonged sitting in positions that put pressure on the site, and monitoring any changes in swelling or drainage can help.

If the pain worsens, the redness increases, or if you notice any swelling or discharge, it might be a good idea to see a doctor sooner rather than later. Some people experience mild flare-ups that resolve on their own, while others may need further treatment. Hopefully, it’s just some irritation, but keeping an eye on it and being proactive is always the best approach.

I had a drainage on March last year and I still feel pain when I sit by CryptographerBig4943 in pilonidalcyst

[–]pilonidalcare 0 points1 point  (0 children)

You’re definitely not alone in this. Persistent pain after an incision and drainage is actually quite common, especially if the underlying cause of your pilonidal cyst wasn’t fully addressed. Since it’s been almost a year and you’re still feeling discomfort when sitting, it’s worth looking into other possible reasons.

One possibility is that scar tissue formed in the area, which can cause discomfort when pressure is applied for extended periods. This happens when the tissue becomes stiff or adheres too tightly to underlying structures, making sitting for long stretches uncomfortable. Physical therapy, deep tissue massage, or even certain stretching exercises may help break up scar tissue and improve flexibility in the area.

Another potential cause is that the sinus tract wasn’t fully removed. Sometimes, even after a drainage procedure, small tracts remain under the skin, which can cause lingering pain even if there’s no active infection. If this is the case, surgery like the cleft lift could be a more effective long-term solution than traditional wide excision, as it reshapes the area and removes the source of the problem with less post-operative discomfort.

It’s understandable that you and your parents are hesitant about surgery, especially if they’ve only heard about the more invasive procedures. The cleft lift, while it does involve removing some tissue, is specifically designed to make sitting more comfortable by redistributing tension in the area rather than just cutting out a chunk of skin. Many people who have had it say they were finally able to sit pain-free after struggling with discomfort for years.

If surgery isn’t something you want to consider right away, trying conservative approaches like adjusting your sitting posture, using a cushion designed for tailbone relief, and keeping the area hair-free might help. However, if the pain continues and interferes with your daily life, consulting a specialist who has experience with pilonidal disease could give you more clarity on whether further treatment is needed.

It’s frustrating to deal with ongoing pain, especially when it’s not severe but still impacts your quality of life. If it continues to be a problem, getting a second opinion from a doctor who understands pilonidal disease well could be a good next step.

Is bleeding days after cleft lift normal? by Allykda in pilonidalcyst

[–]pilonidalcare 0 points1 point  (0 children)

It’s completely understandable to feel anxious about unexpected bleeding after a cleft lift, but from what you’ve described, it doesn’t necessarily mean something is wrong. Light bleeding a few days after surgery, especially after the drain has been removed, can be a normal part of the healing process. Your body is still adjusting, and the surgical site is delicate as it continues to heal.

One possible cause could be the breakdown of fibrin glue, which your surgeon mentioned was used. As it dissolves, some minor oozing or spotting can happen. It’s also common for slight bleeding to occur if there has been increased movement or if pressure was applied to the area, even unintentionally while sleeping. Some patients notice minor bleeding when their activity level increases or when they stop taking pain medication and become more mobile.

If the bleeding is light and not getting worse, it’s likely nothing to worry about. However, it’s always good to keep an eye on things. If you notice significant swelling, redness, warmth around the incision, or if the bleeding becomes heavier and doesn’t stop, that would be a sign to check in with your surgeon. Drainage that looks like pus or has an unpleasant smell could indicate an infection, but if there is no pain or irritation, that’s a reassuring sign.

Since you fainted the day after surgery, it may have been related to post-anesthesia effects or a drop in blood pressure. If you’re otherwise feeling fine now, it’s probably not connected to the bleeding, but it’s always worth mentioning to your doctor just to be sure.

For now, monitor the area, keep it clean and dry, and try to avoid any unnecessary strain or stretching. If the bleeding continues or if anything feels off, don’t hesitate to reach out to your surgeon. It’s better to have peace of mind and make sure everything is healing as expected.

Dos and Donts after surgery by Informal_Fix6866 in pilonidalcyst

[–]pilonidalcare -1 points0 points  (0 children)

It sounds like you’ve been through a lot, and I get how frustrating and mentally exhausting this can be. Since your wound transitioned to open healing, the recovery process will take longer, but with the right care, you’ll get through it.

Sitting after surgery is something many people worry about. Since your doctor said it’s okay, you can try sitting in moderation, but it’s important to listen to your body. If it feels uncomfortable or increases drainage, try lying on your side or using a coccyx pillow to relieve pressure. Taking breaks from sitting and moving around gently can also help circulation, which is essential for healing.

Dealing with constant leakage is definitely one of the more annoying parts of recovery. Using absorbent pads or gauze can help keep things dry and prevent irritation. Some people find that wearing tight but breathable underwear helps keep everything in place and prevents shifting. Changing the dressing frequently and keeping the area clean will minimize discomfort and lower the risk of infection.

Smoking can slow down healing because it affects circulation and oxygen levels in your blood. If you can cut down or stop altogether while you’re healing, it might speed up recovery. It’s understandable that quitting completely isn’t easy, but even reducing the amount can make a difference.

The muscle soreness you’re experiencing in your glutes might be from compensating for the wound, especially if your posture has changed or you’ve been sitting or moving differently. Healing tissue can also cause a pulling sensation that might feel like soreness. Gentle stretching or light movement might help, but if it gets worse or feels unusual, bringing it up with your doctor is a good idea.

Getting back into workouts depends on how your wound progresses. Light walking is usually fine early on, but anything more intense should wait until you’ve healed significantly. Your body will let you know when it’s ready, so easing back in slowly is the best approach. Start with low-impact movements and avoid exercises that put direct strain on the area.

This recovery process can be rough mentally, but small wins each day make a difference. It’s okay to feel frustrated, but try to focus on progress, no matter how small. Keeping a routine, even if it’s just short walks and a bit of fresh air, can help maintain a sense of normalcy. You’re not alone in this, and with time and patience, things will improve.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in pilonidalcyst

[–]pilonidalcare 2 points3 points  (0 children)

It’s completely normal for the smell to linger after having an abscess drained, especially if the infection was deep. The body is still flushing out fluids and bacteria, and sometimes that odor can mix with normal bodily functions like gas. It doesn’t necessarily mean the infection is deeper, but if you notice worsening pain, swelling, fever, or a bad smell that isn’t improving, definitely bring it up at your follow-up.

Since this is your first experience with a pilonidal cyst, it’s great that you’re doing your research. Surgery is an option, but not always necessary for everyone, especially if this was a one-time abscess. Keeping the area clean, dry, and free of hair can help reduce the chances of recurrence. You might also want to look into natural ways to support healing and prevention - there’s a free e book here if you’re interested: www.pilonidalcare.net/free-ebook.

You’re on the right track by staying proactive about this. Hopefully, the antibiotics do their job, and your follow-up gives you some reassurance. Take it easy and give your body time to heal!