What it is
Many ganglions cause no pain and go away on their own, so they often need no treatment.
If one is painful or gets in the way, the fluid can be drained with a needle or the cyst removed with surgery, although it can come back.
Common signs
- A smooth lump near a joint
- A lump that changes size
- Pain, tingling or weakness if it presses on a nerve
How it is usually diagnosed
- Examination of the lump
- Ultrasound scan, sometimes
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Ultrasound reports
- Notes on any drainage or surgery
Questions to ask your doctor
- Does it need treatment?
- What are the chances it comes back?
- Is it safe to leave it?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- A lump that grows quickly, becomes hot and red, or the hand or fingers go numb and cold: get it checked the same day
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.