What you need to know about a Ganglion Cyst
A Ganglion Cyst is a lump filled with fluid that can be found on joints or tendons located on the hands, wrists, and feet. A ganglion cyst may develop slowly over time or it can come on all at once. There is not known cause for the development of ganglion cysts. For the most part, a Ganglion Cyst will not cause any pain and therefore no treatment is usually needed. However if pain does occur, medical treatment may be necessary, especially if it has limited the amount of movement or it is causing cosmetic concerns.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a Ganglion Cyst include raised bumps that are located on the joints of the fingers and wrists. The bumps are round and smooth as well as firm. They are noticeably filled with fluid when a light is shining through the hand.
A ganglion cyst can vary in size however as it grows it may also cause more pain or even numbness. Sometimes a lump isn’t even felt at all. It is only detected through tests done by a complaint of pain in a localized area. An ultrasound or MRI will be needed to diagnose Ganglion Cyst that cannot be seen or felt.
The real cause of a Ganglion Cyst is not yet determined.
It mainly grows out of the joint which makes it hard to predict the cause.
You should contact Dr. Pillai as soon as you notice a lump on the wrist, foot, or hand and experience pain with the lump. This is a need for treatment and Dr. Pillai knows what type of treatment will work.
If Dr. Pillai determines that surgery is an option for you then be prepared before your consultation visit. Write down and keep track of when you notice the symptoms starting and if anything aggravates the condition. Make a list of all the tasks you perform each day and the hobbies that you have.
This will help Dr. Pillai determine if the Ganglion Cyst is caused by overly stressing the hands or feet area. Bring a list of medications that you are on for Dr. Pillai to document in your chart. Don’t forget to ask questions if you are considering surgery.
Surgery on a Ganglion Cyst is performed on an outpatient basis unless otherwise instructed. This means that you can go home the same day you have the surgery. After ganglion cyst surgery and while you are at home, you will need to keep the extremity elevated for two days in order to decrease the amount of swelling.
You will experience some swelling, sensitivity, and possibly discomfort for up to six weeks. Dr. Pillai will recommend some over the counter medication to help control the pain and reduce swelling.
For more information about Ganglion Cyst contact Dr. Pillai today.
