What happens if you pop a cyst?

An individual who pops a cyst risks infection, warns Healthline. Signs of infection include pain and/or reddening of the cyst and may require medical treatment.

Many cysts go away on their own; however, putting a warm compress on the cyst helps it drain more quickly. Common medical treatments include draining the cyst with a needle, prescribing anti-inflammatory medications or surgically removing the cyst. Doctors drain a cyst via needle when the cyst is infected or ruptured. Anti-inflammatory medications, such as a cortisone injection, help reduce inflammation of the cyst. If draining does not work or the cyst is in an unreachable location, then surgical removal of the cyst may be necessary.