Pilonidal sinus, also known as ingrown hair, occurs most commonly in men under 30. It's the formation of a hair follicle under the skin. It's essentially a skin condition. The accumulation of hair and fat, which forms cysts, forms as a result of the accumulation of skin. These accumulations create inflamed tissue. Having a hairy body, working long hours in a sedentary position, being overweight, excessive sweating, and the ingrowing of hair from the back of the neck and head to the coccyx are among the major causes.

What are the causes of ingrown hairs (pilonidal sinus)?

One of the causes is that hair loss from the back begins to grow back under the skin at the coccyx. In addition to this, sitting for long periods, sweating, being overweight, and engaging in strenuous sports like lifting weights can also cause ingrown hairs.

The main cause is an abscess at the base of the hair follicle. This usually occurs above the anal bone. Multiple hairs can accumulate as a result of cracks in this area.

What are the symptoms of ingrown hair (pilodinal sinus)?

• Swelling in the area
• Abscess
• Stream
• Pain
• Itching
• Burning sensation
• Millimeter-sized holes with or without hair
• Although it is usually seen in the area between the buttocks, it can also be seen in the belly and armpits.

What Causes Ingrown Hair (Pilonidal Sinus)?

In short, an ingrown hair occurs when a hair passes through the skin and lodges there. It most often occurs in the coccyx area because that area is already hairy. Wearing tight pants is also a significant culprit. It also contributes to the hair changing direction between the buttocks and penetrating the skin.

How to Identify an Ingrown Hair (Pilonidal Sinus)?

Once the hair has accumulated in the area of ​​the ingrown hair, it can be detected by visiting a doctor with complaints such as swelling and itching. A definitive diagnosis can be made after an anal examination.  It can be detected without imaging devices such as ultrasound or MRI, but sometimes detailed tests may be required.

What is the Treatment for Ingrown Hair (Pilodinal Sinus)?

Depending on the stage of the disease, various treatment methods are available, including topical treatments, baths, epilation, and surgery. If detected at a very young age, the condition can be reversed with epilation and special baths.

If it is more advanced, it can be removed with local anesthesia. It does not require hospitalization.

In the beginning, surgery is generally not preferred, but very advanced and inflamed ingrown hairs cannot be cured without surgery.

After Pilonidal Sinus Surgery

The course of treatment varies depending on the individual. If the treatment involves crystallized phenol, recovery is usually 6-8 weeks. It may take 2-10 weeks for patients to resume their daily lives after surgery.

Post-operative care is crucial. Keeping the area free of sweat and hair is crucial. Depending on the procedure, attention may also be paid to daily activities, such as sleeping position and climbing stairs.

Can Pilonidal Sinus Reoccur After Treatment?

The likelihood of recurrence is low, but not impossible, due to the type of treatment that develops after surgery or non-surgical treatment. This also depends on how the patient continues their life after the procedure.

What are the risk factors for pilonidal sinus?

It's already well known that a sedentary lifestyle contributes to many illnesses. One of the most common problems faced by people who work sedentary jobs, especially those at a desk, is ingrown hairs. Research by experts has shown that sitting upright reduces the risk of ingrown hairs. Therefore, we need to reiterate the importance of sitting upright.

During World War II, soldiers constantly used jeeps, which caused many of them to develop pilonidal sinuses. It even became known as "jeep disease."

• Obesity
• Inadequate personal hygiene
• Very hairy body
• Razor hair removal
• Excessive sweating
• The tendency of the hair root to inflammation
• They are another risk factor.

How Many Days Should I Stay in the Hospital After Pilonidal Sinus Surgery?

There is generally no need for a hospital stay after laser surgery. The average post-surgical recovery time is 7 to 12 days.

What is the Purpose of Treatment for Ingrown Hair (Pilonidal Sinus)?

The patient should stay in the hospital as little as possible.

Experience minimal pain

Minimum cost

Return to daily life in a short time

How to Treat Ingrown Hair (Pilonid Sinus)?

Sitting in warm water may help. It may slow down the worsening of the abscess.

Zinc supplements and vitamin C may be helpful, but should be under medical supervision.

Although it is said that essential oils such as tea tree oil may be beneficial, there is no scientific explanation for this.

A pillow may be helpful when sitting.

Regular exercise can be beneficial because it increases blood flow.

Which Doctor Should You See for Ingrown Hairs (Pilonid Sinus)?

Patients sometimes mistake an ingrown hair on the coccyx for a pimple and go to the wrong doctor. A general surgeon is essential. Treatment for ingrown hairs is surgical. The area around the rectum and anus should be examined by a specialist.

How Many Different Ways Can Ingrown Hairs Appear?

It can occur in 3 different ways.

The first is an ingrown hair abscess, swelling, itching and pain occur in the area where the ingrown hair occurs on the buttocks.

The second is that patients describe a discharge after chronic pilonidal abscess.

Third, chronic recurrent pilonidal disease. The abscess may flare up from time to time and recur.

Frequently Asked Questions

1 – Can ingrown hairs be congenital?

Research shows that the disease is not congenital but acquired.

2 – What kind of problems can develop if left untreated?

The person's quality of life decreases significantly. Pain and suffering are constant due to the abscesses that form.

3 – What surgical methods are used to treat ingrown hairs?

Open technique, semi-closure technique, fully closed technique, skin sliding repair techniques

4 – What are the benefits of non-surgical treatment methods?

It's more economical. General anesthesia isn't required, and the patient doesn't have to stay in the hospital. No additional incisions are made beyond the existing ones, making it easier for the patient to return to their daily lives.

5 – Is it more common in men than in women?

Yes. It's 3-4 times more common in men than in women. It's common between the ages of 15 and 30.

6 – Does ingrown hair go away on its own?

Sometimes, it can be mistaken for a pimple. Some patients may pop an abscess, mistaking it for a pimple. However, this isn't a solution. Furthermore, popping it can create a new infection and leave a scar.

7 – Does ingrown hairs cause other diseases?

Ingrown hairs left untreated for a long time can, in very rare cases, become cancerous. In this case, the disease progresses much worse.