GANGLION CYST
Ganglion cysts are small non-cancerous lumps that appear below your skin, often near joints or tendons.
The cysts are usually filled with a thick, jelly-like fluid, with their sizes varying from very small to as a large as golf ball.
They develop when the tissue covering a tendon or joint tears, causing tissue to bulge and create a sac
Let’s learn more
COMMON LOCATIONS WHERE THEY OCCUR
-Wrist: Front or back area
-Finger: It could be any finger joint, close to the palm or just below the fingernai
-Foot: Appears near the ankle or toes
-Occult Ganglia: This type of cysts are so small that you can’t see them, but can still cause pain.
SYMPTOMS TO LOOK OUT FOR
-Shape and Size: Ganglion cysts are usually round or oval and can change size, often enlarging with activity.
-Pain and Discomfort: Some cysts are painless, while others can cause discomfort, particularly if pressing on a nearby nerve.
-Other Sensations: pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in the affected area.
-Visible Signs: The cysts may appear as visible bumps under the skin that may feel firm or spongy when you touch them.
-Movement problems : If the cyst is near a joint, it might restrict movement, making it hard to flex or extend the joint completely.
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES ?
-Unknown Origins: The exact cause isn’t known
-Theories: They may develop when the fluid that usually lubricates your joints leaks out, and form a lump.
-Triggers: Possible triggers include injury, excess use, or persistent stress on joints and tendons that cause tissue to bulge out.
SOME RISK FACTORS
-General Risk: Anyone can develop ganglion cysts, but they’re more common in certain groups.
-Gender: Most frequent in women
-Age : More in people aged 20-40
-Activity-Based Risk: People whose jobs involves repetitive hand movements, like gymnasts or typists, are at higher risk due to the stress exerted on their wrists.
-History of injury: People who have had previous joint or tendon injuries may be at more risk.
-Medical Conditions: People with arthritis in their fingers s are also more susceptible.
DIAGNOSIS
-Physical Examination: Just by looking and feeling them, doctors can identify ganglion cysts.
-X-rays : In a case where it is not visible but comes with symptoms, they may use ultrasound or MRI
-Fluid Analysis: Getting and testing fluid from the cyst can help to confirm the diagnosis.
-Translucency Test: This involves shining a light on the lump to check if it's translucent.
TREATMENT OPTIONS
-Non-invasive: Many ganglion cysts go away on their one
-Supportive Measures: Wearing a brace or splint to limit movement
-Medication: Anti-inflammatory medications can reduce swelling and discomfort.
-Fluid Drainage: Using a needle to drain the fluid. Downside is that it can recur
-Surgical Removal: If the cyst is persistent or very bothersome, surgery may be required
WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR
-Rapid Changes: If the cyst changes size quickly
-Persistent Symptoms: Causes ongoing pain or numbness, or affects joint movement
-Do This Early: Getting medical advice early can prevent more serious problems.
MANAGEMENT AND PREVENTION
If it’s already present do this;
-Rest and Relief: Rest the affected area, use ice, and take over-the-counter pain relievers to manage symptoms
-Healthy Joints: Keeping your joints healthy and avoiding repetitive strain can help lower the chances of getting these cysts
If you don’t have it already, do this to lower your risk ;
-Take frequent breaks during repetitive tasks.
-Perform strengthening exercises for hands and wrists.
-Maintain a proper posture to minimize strain on joints.
-Ensure proper warm-ups before physical activities to prevent injuries.
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