Mri showed fluid and cyst in knee. along with arthritic and cartilage changes. i have had pain and swelling x 1 week. what should i do at this point?

See your doctor: Discuss this with the doctor who ordered the wri. Surely, the MRI is part of a diagnostic and therapeutic plan for you.

Conservative therapy: I would talk to the doctor who ordered the MRI and ask specifically about conservative options for treatment. Many knee issues including arthritic and cartilage changes can be managed with good physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medicines, and weight loss (if that's a contributing factor to the pain). Surgery is reserved for when conservative options fail. Best of luck!