HomeTreatmentsPilonidal SinusCauses

Why does a
Pilonidal Sinus form?

It's not just "bad luck". Pilonidal Sinus is an acquired condition caused by **Hair, Friction, and Moisture** in the tailbone area.

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Jaya Maheshwari
Last Updated: Jan 2026

The Hair Drill Effect

When you walk, the buttocks rub against each other. This friction rolls loose hair into a pointed "drill". The negative pressure in the deep cleft sucks this hair into a pore. Once inside, the hair causes infection and forms a sinus tract.

Risk Factors

01

Hair Penetration (Ingrown Hair)

Loose hairs in the buttock cleft act like tiny needles. Friction forces them to burrow into the skin, creating a pit or tunnel.

02

Prolonged Sitting (Jeep Disease)

Sitting for long hours creates pressure and sweat in the tailbone area, softening the skin and making it easy for hair to enter.

03

Deep Natal Cleft

Some people are born with a deep groove between the buttocks. This traps sweat, debris, and hair, increasing infection risk.

04

Excessive Body Hair

Thick, coarse body hair is more likely to break and penetrate the skin. This is why PNS is more common in hairy men.

05

Obesity

Excess weight increases the depth of the cleft and causes more friction and sweating, creating the perfect environment for a sinus.

06

Tight Clothing

Wearing tight jeans or synthetic underwear increases friction and heat, further irritating the hair follicles.

Director's Interview

Why is it called Jeep Disease?

Lifestyle & Pilonidal Sinus

"We see so many software engineers with this condition. Sitting for 10-12 hours is the biggest enemy of your tailbone."

Dr. Jaya Maheshwari explains the history of Pilonidal Sinus (common in Jeep drivers during WWII) and why IT professionals are the new victims today.

Vice President IAGES (2020–2022)
Trained in Germany & USA
Pioneer of Laser Proctology
Now Watching: Dr. Jaya on Advanced Treatments

Prevention Tips

  • Laser Hair Removal (Best)
  • Keep the area clean & dry
  • Use a Coccyx Cushion
  • Take breaks from sitting
  • Lose excess weight

Prevent Recurrence

Removing the sinus is only half the cure. Removing the hair prevents it from coming back.

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