The Bottom Issue

Signs

In the early stages, the trapped hairs under the skin just form a cyst, but once infected (the condition is called a pilonidal abscess), the cyst becomes red, painful, swollen and filled with pus. The signs include redness, pain or swelling at the tailbone area, a pus-filled boil and in some cases, fever. A pilonidal cyst needs to be drained in order to improve. In some people, repeated infections and inflammation may occur. This is because as long as the hair is not removed, the infection never fully clears. This is where one or more small little openings on the skin (called sinus tracts) lead into the cavity below that contains the hairs. Some of these tracts may extend deep towards the bone below.

Treatment

This depends on how severe the disease is. A small abscess can be treated by making a small cut to release the pus and remove the hair. A more chronic case may require surgery to remove the entire cyst. Some treatment methods include simple surgery under local anaesthesia to incise and drain the cyst as well as remove the hairs that have been embedded. The cavity is then packed with gauze.

Preventing pilonidal disease

For some people, it is the shape of their buttocks that makes it easy for hair to get embedded. However, the risk of pilonidal disease can be reduced by ensuring that the area at risk is free from hair. It is also helpful to avoid sitting for long periods of time, and to ensure one takes frequent breaks to walk around. Avoiding tight clothing can also be helpful as snug clothing can force body hairs down into the skin. Personal hygiene is also important. Clean the area on a daily basis, ensuring that all soap residue is washed away. Keep the skin completely dry. Seek medical attention if the boil becomes red and inflamed to prevent a serious case of infection.