You should get medical advice if the cyst becomes painful, red, swollen, infected, drains repeatedly, grows larger, interferes with daily life, or if you are not sure the lump is really a cyst. NHS says treatment may be recommended if a cyst is infected or large and painful, and also advises seeing a GP for an unexplained lump. Cleveland Clinic says any new lump should be checked so a clinician can confirm what it is.
Medical treatment options
If a cyst is causing symptoms, a healthcare professional may recommend treatment such as monitoring it, reducing inflammation, draining it, or removing it. Mayo Clinic says cysts may be removed if they are bothersome, painful, broken open, or infected.
Final takeaway
Most so-called sebaceous cysts are not dangerous, and many can simply be watched. The safest “home remedy” is usually a warm compress and leaving it alone. Do not try to squeeze or cut it yourself. If it changes, hurts, or you are unsure what the lump is, get it checked by a healthcare professional.
