Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can form near the joints and tendons of the wrists, ankles, and feet. They are benign, meaning they are non-cancerous, and often go away on their own. However, the length of time it takes for a ganglion cyst to resolve can vary greatly and may depend on several factors.
In most cases, a ganglion cyst can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months or even years. If the cyst does not cause any pain or discomfort, it may not require treatment and can be left alone. For ganglion cysts that are causing pain or interfering with normal activities, treatment may be necessary to reduce the size of the cyst or eliminate it completely.
Treatment options for ganglion cysts include non-surgical options such as immobilization, steroid injections, aspiration, and ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy. Surgical removal is also a possibility, although it is usually reserved for cysts that are causing pain or discomfort and have not responded to other treatments.
In general, ganglion cysts that are left untreated can last for months or even years. However, when treated appropriately and promptly, the cyst can often be resolved within a few weeks.