Struggling from Hidradenitis Suppurativa?

Struggling from Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)?

Learn more about the symptoms, causes and potential solutions to Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS).

Hidradenitis suppurativa can cause painful, flesh-colored lumps to form on the skin’s surface (Source: NHS)
Sometimes, narrow tunnels called sinus tracts develop beneath the skin and may open to the surface, leaking pus (Source: NHS)

Symptoms of Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a chronic skin condition characterized by:

Painful lumps or nodules under the skin, often in areas where skin rubs together (e.g., armpits, groin, buttocks, and under the breasts).
Tunnels (sinus tracts) or interconnected abscesses that may form under the skin over time.
Recurring abscesses that may break open and drain foul-smelling fluid or pus.
Scarring and thickened skin from repeated inflammation and healing.
Itching, burning, or tenderness in affected areas before new breakouts occur.

Symptoms typically worsen over time if untreated and can significantly affect quality of life. Early diagnosis and management are important.

Causes of Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)

The exact cause of Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is not fully understood, but several factors are believed to contribute:

Blocked hair follicles: HS begins when hair follicles become clogged and inflamed, leading to painful lumps.
Immune system dysfunction: An abnormal immune response may trigger chronic inflammation in the skin.
Genetics: HS often runs in families, suggesting a hereditary component.
Hormones: Symptoms commonly begin after puberty and may fluctuate with hormonal changes.
Lifestyle factors: Smoking and obesity are strongly associated with HS and may worsen the condition.
Not caused by poor hygiene: Despite common misconceptions, HS is not due to being unclean or contagious.

While no single cause is confirmed, a combination of genetic, immune, and environmental factors likely plays a role in the development of HS.

How to limit Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)?

Research shows that keeping the areas affected by hidradenitis suppurativa clean, losing weight and quitting smoking can lessen symptom severity and, in some cases, lead to significant improvement. However, outcomes vary from person to person, and HS is often a long-term condition. Early diagnosis and treatment can help slow its progression. Healthcare providers typically recommend antimicrobial skin cleansers, weight loss for overweight individuals and smoking cessation to help manage HS symptoms.

What is the main cause of Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)?

Hidradenitis suppurativa develops when hair follicles become blocked, though the exact reason for this blockage is unclear. Experts believe it may be linked to factors such as hormones, genetics, smoking, or being overweight.

How do you get rid of Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) smell?

Keep the areas affected by hidradenitis suppurativa clean – use antimicrobial skin cleansers such as Battles Hibiwash Antibacterial Wash: 500ml.

It is also recommended to cover the impacted areas with specific wound dressings (can be expensive) to prevent infection spreading to nearby areas. A cheaper DIY alternative is buying Cotton Gauze Swabs and Medical Tape to cover Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) areas.

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How to cover Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) areas to prevent infection

To help protect areas affected by hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) and reduce the risk of infection, proper clothing, hygiene, and wound care are important. Using breathable fabrics and appropriate dressings can make a significant difference in comfort and symptom management.

Recommended Care for Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS):

Clothing:

Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothes made from soft fabrics like cotton to reduce friction and irritation.
Avoid tight underwear or clothing, especially around the underarms and groin.

Wound Dressings:

If lesions are draining, use a non-adhesive, absorbent dressing with an adhesive border to protect the area.
Applying petroleum jelly to the dressing can help prevent it from sticking to the skin.

Hygiene:

Gently clean affected areas with antibacterial or antiseptic soap or shower gel.
Avoid harsh scrubbing or rough towels.

Hair Removal:

Do not shave affected areas, as it can increase the risk of irritation and infection.

Additional Tips:

Use warm compresses to help encourage drainage from painful lumps.
Try to minimize heat and excessive sweating, which can worsen symptoms.
Some people find relief with dietary changes, such as reducing dairy intake or following a low glycaemic index (GI) diet.

When to Seek Medical Advice:

Contact a healthcare professional if you experience signs of infection like increased pain, redness, swelling, warmth, or fever.

Early and consistent care can help manage HS and prevent flare-ups from worsening.

How to Treat a Hidradenitis Suppurativa Flare-Up?

To manage a flare-up of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), gently apply a warm compress to help reduce swelling and relieve pain. Consult your healthcare provider about suitable pain relief options and look for wound care options at home to help keep areas affected by hidradenitis suppurativa clean.

Maintaining or working toward a healthy weight and staying physically active can also help, as excess weight may worsen HS symptoms.

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Can I Live a Normal Life with Hidradenitis Suppurativa?

While there’s currently no cure for hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), many people are able to manage the condition and lead fulfilling lives. HS often follows a pattern of flare-ups followed by periods of clearer skin. These flare-ups typically occur in the same general areas of the body. With proper treatment, lifestyle adjustments, and support, it’s possible to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.

Does Hidradenitis Suppurativa Ever Go Away?

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic condition, which means it usually doesn’t go away completely. While there is no cure, symptoms can often be managed effectively with treatment and lifestyle changes. In some cases, HS can become inactive for extended periods, but this is not considered a permanent remission.

A Closer Look:

Chronic Nature:
HS is a long-term condition that tends to follow a cycle of flare-ups and remission over many years.

No Definitive Cure:
There is currently no treatment that fully eliminates HS.

Treatment Goals:
Management focuses on reducing the size and frequency of flare-ups, relieving pain, preventing new lesions, and minimizing scarring.

Fluctuating Symptoms:
The condition often comes and goes, with symptoms improving or worsening at different times.

Individual Experiences Vary:
Some people may have mild and manageable symptoms, while others face more severe and persistent cases.

Periods of Inactivity:
With proper care and lifestyle changes—like weight management, smoking cessation, and medical treatment—HS symptoms can become inactive for long stretches, though this is not considered a cure.

Early diagnosis, personalized care, and ongoing management are key to improving quality of life for those living with HS.