Most often bumps on our skin are normal. Sometimes, we dismiss such bumps because we think that it is just a simple insect bite. It’s nothing serious. It will go away eventually. However, if the bump becomes larger and reddish, then it could be a sign of a serious condition. If the bump does not heal and disappear after a month or longer, then it could either be a cyst or an abscess. Fortunately, removal surgeries in Singapore are available to treat such conditions.
For someone without a medical background, cysts and abscesses may look like the same thing. Both form a lump or a bump on the skin, and they usually have a reddish and swollen appearance. Moreover, they could also appear anywhere on your body. Because of these similarities, it is not a surprise that most people would think there’s no difference between the two. However, each of them come with different causes and complications.
Keep on reading to learn what are the differences between a cyst or an abscess.
Cysts
One of the distinctive characteristics of cysts is that they are usually benign. In simple terms, it is not cancerous. It does not pose serious health risks, unlike abscesses. However, some cases may turn cysts into a major health concern.
Symptoms
One way you can differentiate a cyst from an abscess is by touching it. Try to touch the bump on your skin. If it hurts, then it is not a cyst— it is most likely an abscess. Cysts are not supposed to be painful. It is just a mere lump on the skin. However, it can become painful if it’s enlarged. So, inspect for any bumps on your skin. Monitor these bumps, and see whether they seem to grow day by day. If it does, then it is confirmed that it is a cyst. You may want to consult a doctor if you want to know whether you may need a cyst removal.
Causes
Cysts may occur because of various reasons. It could either be because of an infection, duct obstruction, inflammation, or hereditary disease. Thus, cysts have different types. These are:
- Epidermoid Cyst
- Sebaceous Cyst
- Ganglion Cyst
- Ovarian Cysts
- Breast Cysts
- Pilonidal Cyst
- Baker’s Cyst
- Cystic Acne
- Ingrown Hair Cyst
- Mucous Cyst
- Branchial Cleft Cyst
Treatment
Among all the types of cysts, the most common non-cancerous is a sebaceous cyst. In Singapore, a simple removalprocedure can help treat it. A sebaceous cyst may not be life-threatening, but it could cause discomfort if left untreated. Thus, you should see a doctor right away. Remember that the occurrence of cysts may also indicate a sign of cancer. So, it is not good to be complacent just because your cyst does not feel pain when touched.
As for other cyst removalprocedures, there are some that you could do by yourself. Like for example, cystic acne. You may practise a daily skincare routine until the acne goes away. You could also take some oral medications such as antibiotics to help get rid of it. However, you may still need to consult a doctor about this.
Abscess
The main difference of an abscess from a cyst is that an abscess is an infection. Thus, a removalprocedure is a must to treat it. It forms a bump on the skin because once an abscess appears, a part of your body’s tissue is filled with pus. The pus contains bacteria, and your body’s immune system is trying to fight it. This is why there is a lump on your skin. However, abscesses could also form inside your body. So, make sure you get your regular checkups to check if there are abscesses that are needed to be removed.
Symptoms
One way you can differentiate an abscess from a cyst is if it feels painful. More so, if you don’t directly touch it. Moreover, the bump looks like it is hardened. Also, observe whether you are frequently having chills or fever lately ever since you have discovered a lump on your skin. It is another sign of a skin abscess.
Causes
One of the causes of an abscess is bacteria— specifically, the Staphylococcus aureus. Once it enters the pores or hair follicles, a part of the skin could become infected. Thus, infections are also one of the reasons why abscesses develop. It is why they are also mistakenly recognised as cysts. Cysts could also form because of the presence of bacteria.
There are other causes of the development of an abscess. In Singapore, patients who have Diverticulardisease could also have an abscess. It happens whenever the infection on the colon becomes enlarged. It does not only cause pain, but it may also lead to other health complications.
Treatment
In Singapore, an abscess removal is the main treatment for this type of condition. The doctor will make an incision on the affected area, and then, draining the pus inside. After that, he will clean the skin, and put on a wound dressing.
However, a simple abscess removalis not applicable in abscesses due to diverticular disease— surgery may be needed. So, talk to your doctor about what are the most ideal treatment options if you have this kind of disease.
Cyst Removal Procedure at DrQm Leong
If you noticed you have a cyst or an abscess, then don’t hesitate to consult the health experts of DrQm Leong. With their knowledge and experience, they can come up with an ideal treatment plan for you. You could also ask them whether you may be needing a cyst/ abscess removal in Singapore.
Check out their website at https://colorectalsurgery.com.sg to find out more about their healthcare services in Singapore!
