Most pilonidal sinuses occur just below the tail bone, in the area of skin between the buttocks. However, some cases of pilonidal sinus have been recorded in the belly button or hands, such as between the fingers.
A pilonidal sinus will not cause any symptoms until it becomes infected, although you may notice its presence as a small pit or depression in the surface of your skin. Sometimes, there may be more than one pit.
Once the sinus becomes infected, the pit will start to swell and you may experience symptoms, including:
- pain
- redness of the skin
- pus draining from the sinus (the pus usually smells unpleasant)
- blood draining from the sinus
- a high temperature of 38C (100.4F) or above
Pain
The pain caused by a pilonidal sinus can be severe and, without treatment, it may get worse. Therefore, see your GP as soon as possible.
The pain can make it difficult to sit or lie down comfortably, which may affect your sleep. The pain may also interfere with your ability to work and may increasingly affect your daily activities.
