Overview
Pilonidal sinus is an abnormality of the skin that occurs at the bottom of the tailbone mostly due to poor hygiene or sitting long hours. It looks like a sac-like structure that can get infected and be filled with pus called an abscess.
The condition is associated with in-grown hair that causes irritation. Men are more likely to suffer from pilonidal sinuses compared to women as they are hairier.
A pilonidal sinus is treated with medications and surgery, however, there are self-care tips and home remedies that can help manage the symptoms.
Best home remedies that help pilonidal sinus
Natural home remedies provide symptomatic relief to the condition. Here are some useful tips:
Sitz bath
A sitz bath provides relief to pain and discomfort. Immerse yourself in shallow warm water and stay there for a few minutes. Add some Epsom salt to the water. Epsom salt drains the pus and other infections from the abscess. After getting out of the water, pat yourself dry. Take sitz baths several times a day.
Warm compresses
Warm compresses improve blood circulation and promote faster recovery. You can use a wet or dry warm compress.
For a dry warm compress, take a soft cotton towel and heat it with an iron or alternatively, you can use heating pads. For a wet warm compress, take some hot water and dip a sterile washcloth in the water, and gently apply the cloth to the affected area for a few minutes until the cloth turns cold. Repeat this process until the pain has subsided.
Tea tree oil
It has antibacterial components and natural antioxidants. Mix a few drops of tea tree oil into one teaspoon of coconut oil. Blend the oils. Dab a cotton wool into the oil and apply it to the affected area. You can also add some lukewarm water to the tea tree oil and dilute it. Now rinse the area with the solution. It will provide relief.
Castor oil
Castor oil contains ricinoleic acid which acts like a natural anti-inflammatory agent. It reduces inflammation. Take a sterile cotton ball soak it in warm castor oil and apply it generously to the affected area. You can leave the oil overnight or gently wipe off the castor oil after 30 minutes.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil is an analgesic and an anti-inflammatory agent. It reduces pain and irritation. Apply organic coconut oil generously on the affected area and leave it for a few hours. For best relief, apply the oil several times a day.
Turmeric
Turmeric has curcumin which has anti-inflammatory properties. It relieves pain and inflammation. Make a thick turmeric paste and apply it to the pilonidal sinus area. Remove the paste when it dries up. Apply this paste two times a day.
Aloe Vera gel
Aloe Vera has antimicrobial properties and provides relief to pain and irritation. Apply the gel in the area three to four times a day.
Fenugreek seeds
Boil some fenugreek seeds in water. Strain the water in a glass and add some honey. Drink this liquid every day and you can notice gradual improvement in your symptoms.
Maintaining hygiene
Sanitize the pilonidal sinus area with mild soap and rinse it thoroughly with clear water. Pat it dry and keep it clean every day to avoid bacterial growth and infections. Remove hair from the area. You can shave, use depilatory agents, or laser hair removal. Dirt and dry soap flakes that accumulate in the hair can cause infections.
Using cushions
Use soft cushions or donut pillows for sitting. It relieves the excess pressure and reduces direct contact with the pilonidal sinus.
Stop your suffering NOW
Don't just jump into a surgery because your doctor is advising you to go for it. Consult our doctors to know if you need a surgery at all. Rest assured, we WON'T recommend you surgery unless it's the last resort.
