A ganglion (GANG-lee-un) cyst is a swelling under the
skin that is filled with a thick, jelly-like substance. It
occurs most often at the wrist. Sometimes the problem goes away
without treatment.
Causes
These cysts are usually the
result of an injury or trauma that you may not
recall.
Signs/Symptoms
Typically, you'll notice a dull
ache or wrist tenderness. You may or may not have a lump. Other
signs are numbness, weakness, or swelling of your hand or
wrist. Often there are no symptoms.
Care
If the cyst is very painful, you
may need to have minor surgery.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
Do not try to break the cyst yourself by pressing on
it, poking it with a needle, or hitting it with a heavy
object.
Call Your Doctor If...
The cyst becomes larger or more
painful.
You develop weakness or numbness in your hand or
wrist.