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Warning-sign checks

Epidermoid cyst: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services for signs of severe illness, including confusion, fainting, severe weakness, difficulty breathing, or cold and blotchy skin.

    These are not typical of an uncomplicated cyst but can occur with a serious spreading infection.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek prompt medical advice for:

    • Increasing pain, warmth, or swelling
    • Pus or persistent drainage
    • Redness spreading away from the lump
    • Rapid growth or a new change in texture
    • Bleeding, ulceration, or repeated skin breakdown
    • Recurrence after previous removal

    Seek urgent same-day help if redness is spreading quickly, pain is severe, or you develop a fever and feel unwell.

    An infection near the eye or another sensitive area also requires prompt assessment.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Make a routine appointment for any new lump that has not been examined.

    Also seek advice if a known cyst grows, repeatedly drains, becomes uncomfortable, or causes concern because of its location or appearance.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Epidermoid cyst. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.