A ganglion cyst is a lump filled with fluid that appears on or near a joint or tendon, often found on the wrist or hand.

The exact cause is not known; however, they may arise from joint stress, repetitive movements, or injury.

No, ganglion cysts are non-cancerous and benign.

Symptoms can include a visible lump, possible pain or discomfort, and sometimes limited joint movement.

Diagnosis is primarily made through physical examination and may be confirmed with imaging tests like an ultrasound or MRI.

Some ganglion cysts may resolve on their own without any treatment.

Treatment options include watching it, aspiration, using a splint, or surgery.

Treatment is needed only if the cyst is painful, bothersome, or limits movement.

Yes, ganglion cysts can return after aspiration or surgery.

Aspiration is the process of using a needle to remove fluid from the cyst, which can provide short-term relief.

Risks may include infection, recurrence, and damage to nearby structures.

Surgery is usually effective, with a lower chance of the cyst returning compared to aspiration.

Risks can include infection, scarring, stiffness, and cyst recurrence.

Recovery varies; typically, normal activities resume in 2 to 4 weeks, and full recovery may take a few months.

If large enough, a cyst can press on nearby nerves, leading to pain or tingling.

No, only a healthcare provider should drain a cyst to avoid infection and complications.

A splint may ease symptoms by immobilizing the area, but it does not eliminate the cyst.

There is no sure way to prevent them, but reducing repetitive strain may lower the risk.

If a cyst bursts, the fluid is usually absorbed by the body, which may relieve discomfort, though a medical check-up is recommended.

Most insurance plans will cover treatment if it's medically necessary, but this varies.

Yes, cysts can shrink or grow depending on joint activity.

It can be either, with texture varying from soft to firm, based on size and location.

If pressing on nerves or tendons, a cyst can impact hand function or cause pain, affecting movement.

It may limit daily tasks or cause discomfort, affecting activities. Activities that need a lot of wrist use or cause pain can make some daily tasks hard.

Physical therapy might aid in reducing symptoms by increasing movement and strengthening the area.

Some people feel pain or discomfort, especially when moving, while others may feel no pain.

A wrist brace can support and ease symptoms by reducing movement in that area.

They don’t come from arthritis but can occur with arthritis in the wrist.

A ganglion cyst is a sac filled with fluid, while a bone spur is a bony growth.

No, ganglion cysts cannot spread from person to person.

It's unlikely to cause permanent damage, but lasting pressure on nerves can cause long-term problems.

See a healthcare provider for evaluation and possible treatment options.

Yes, they usually are on the wrist but can also be found on feet, ankles, and other joints.

It depends on size and pain; talk to your doctor about what you can safely do.

Surgical choices include traditional removal and minimally invasive arthroscopic methods.

There’s no clear relation, but good joint health through diet may help.

It may, if the cyst is large or painful, which could affect wrist movement.

They can develop suddenly after activity or gradually over time.

No proven home remedy exists; treatment should follow a healthcare professional's guidance.

There’s no strong evidence suggesting they are hereditary.

Recurrence rates are about 10-20% after surgical removal.

It is a thick, clear, or jelly-like fluid from the joint or synovial fluid.

Yes, they can appear on both wrists, but it's not common.

Yes, multiple cysts can form, but usually, they are just a single lump.

Infections are uncommon but can happen, especially if the cyst is not drained properly.

Mild swelling is typical, but serious changes should be checked by a doctor.

Arthroscopic surgery uses smaller cuts and is less invasive, often allowing for faster recovery.

This can vary, with some forming quickly while others develop slowly over months. 49. Can medicine make a ganglion cyst go away? Right now, no medicine can make a ganglion cyst go away; treatment needs physical action.

Ask how to confirm the diagnosis, what treatments are available, what risks and benefits there are, and what to expect during recovery.