Causes and Symptoms of Cysts
Cysts can form anywhere on your body. The symptoms of the cyst will be based on its location and size. In some cases, cysts never cause any pain or discomfort and you may not be aware that they are there. If the cyst does cause symptoms or is uncomfortable, treatments are available. Seeing your physician can help you determine the best course to take.
Brain Cyst
Brain cysts may contain minerals, fluid or even hair and glandular cells. Cysts that occur in the brain sometimes go without notice and have no real symptoms. If you are symptomatic you may experience confusion, headaches, speech impediments, trouble forming words, trouble walking or even a change in consciousness. They are usually found by accident during an MRI or CT scan for another problem. Brain cysts can be caused by malformation during the fetal development, parasites, or the cause may be unknown.
Epidermal Cyst
According to the Merck Online Medical Library, an epidermal cyst is slow growing and lies under the skin. The cyst is usually filled with a cheesy like substance and can occur on the back, neck or head. The cysts are usually not painful unless they become infected or are in a place where they are easily bumped or irritated. The treatment for this type of cyst is to surgically remove it. If the cyst is not completely removed, it may grow back.
Breast Cysts
Breast cysts are usually benign cysts that occur on the breast. They are normally very small and difficult to notice without mammography. The cause of these cysts is unknown but it is believed that they may be related to an injury of the breast. The cysts can sometimes be painful and if so, they are aspirated to drain the fluid from them.
Ganglion Cyst
This cyst usually occurs on the back of the fingers, wrists and hands. It is usually firm and round and contains a gelatinous substance. Ganglion cysts can cause irritation and redness at the site, but they are rarely painful. Some causes of these cysts are unknown but some can be related to an injury or arthritis. Draining the cyst's fluid is usually enough to rid you of the cyst. If the cyst cannot be drained, surgical removal may be needed.
Baker's Cyst
According to the Merck Online Medical Library, a Baker's cyst is a cyst that occurs on the end of the joint capsule behind the knee. This cyst results from an accumulation of joint fluid that develops into a protruding sac. It can be caused by arthritis or an overuse of the knees (such as with athletes). To diagnose the problem the doctor may do tests such as MRIs or ultrasound along with a physical exam. These cysts can cause a great deal of discomfort as they grow. They also may burst which can cause inflammation and tenderness around the site.
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