Ganglion Cysts
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:
Ganglion Cysts (Discharge Care) Care Guide
- Ganglion Cysts
- Ganglion Cysts Aftercare Instructions
- Ganglion Cysts Discharge Care
- En Espanol
A ganglion cyst is a lump under the skin. The lump contains an abnormal buildup of fluid. A ganglion cyst will sometimes grow near joints and tendons. Joints are where bones join together, and tendons are tissues that connect muscle and bone. Ganglion cysts are most common on the wrists, feet, or ankles, but can be found anywhere on the body.
AFTER YOU LEAVE:
Medicines:
- NSAIDs: NSAIDs may be given to decrease swelling and pain. This medicine can be bought without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems if they are not taken correctly.
- Take your medicine as directed. Call your primary healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell him if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Self care:
- Do not try to pop or break the cyst: This will not make the cyst go away and can cause tissue damage.
- Wear a splint: You may need a splint to support and protect the joint with the cyst. This will limit movement and help your cyst get smaller.
- Care after a needle aspiration: Care for the cyst area as directed. Rest your joint for 48 hours. Ice the area to help decrease swelling and pain. Use an ice pack or put ice in a plastic bag. Cover the ice pack with a towel and place it on your cyst area for 15 to 20 minutes, 3 to 4 times each day. Do this for 2 to 3 days.
Follow up with your primary healthcare provider as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
Contact your primary healthcare provider if:
- Your cyst becomes larger or more painful.
- Your hand, wrist, or foot with the cyst gets weak, numb, or swollen.
- You have a fever.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
© 2013 Truven Health Analytics Inc. Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes. All illustrations and images included in CareNotes® are the copyrighted property of the Blausen Databases or Truven Health Analytics.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
