The first signs and symptoms of ganglion cysts are usually the small swollen or elevated portion of the skin usually mistaken for a small insect bite but without the itch and skin irritation. The swelling can either appear suddenly or slowly emerge over a period of time, it can even disappear completely only to show itself on the same site or move a few inches from the original site after an indefinite period of time. The cyst can change its size from time to time without any relation to outside forces, the bump is generally described as ranging between 0.4 to 1.2 inches or 1-3 centimeters, and non mobile, or does not move when palpated. Symptoms and signs of ganglion cyst include:

1. The pain is usually nonstop, aching, and made worse by joint motion.
2. The ganglion cyst usually appears as a bump that changes size.
3. It is usually soft, anywhere from 1-3 cm in diameter and doesn't move.
4. When the cyst is connected to a tendon, you may feel a sense of weakness in the affected finger.
5. The swelling may appear over time or appear suddenly, may get smaller in size, and may even go away, only to come back at another time.
6. Most ganglion cysts cause some degree of pain, usually following acute or repetitive trauma, but up to 35% are without symptoms, except for appearance.