Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a condition that causes lumps or boils to form in the folds of your skin. Though non-contagious, they are often painful and impact a patients’ quality of life and mental health. Without proper treatment, HS can worsen. Hidradenitis Suppurativa may be a rare disease, but knowing more about it can change that.
HS Signs
The painful lumps can affect one or multiple areas of the body. Areas with hair follicles and many oil and sweat glands are more prone. For example, the armpit, groin, and anal regions. These hair follicles become blocked and develop into HS. They also can develop where skin rubs together like the inner thighs, breast, and buttocks. Signs of hidradenitis suppurativa in these areas include:
- Discomfort in the area where skin can burn, itch, or sweat excessively.
- A painful spot that looks like a deep pimple, boil, or acne cyst.
- Lumps that grow and join together may fill with fluid and become increasingly painful. These may break open and release a foul-smelling liquid.
- Blackhead-like bumps that often appear in twos.
The cause of hidradenitis suppurativa remains mostly unknown. We know that it isn’t the result of poor hygiene but could be connected to hormones, inherited genes, and immune system issues.
Treatment Options for Hidradenitis Suppurativa
At this time, there is no known cure for HS. Thankfully, breakthroughs through research has led to a better understanding of this disease. It has also led to better treatment options for HS. Many patients now receive a treatment plan customized to their needs. Having this condition increases the risk of developing other conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. Your dermatologist may work closely with other doctors for this reason. A patient’s HS treatment plan may include:
- Following a daily skincare routine with non-soap products or antiseptic wash.
- Antibiotic creams, systemic drugs, and pain medications.
- Surgical options include removing the affected area of the skin, removing lesions, and uncovering tunnels made by joining abscesses.
- Lifestyle changes such as avoiding tight clothes and products that irritate the skin, maintaining a healthy weight, and staying active.
HS research continues for hope to help improve the care of those with this condition and eventually find a cure. To learn how you can get involved in the hidradenitis suppurativa studies currently enrolling here at ActivMed Practices & Research, call our Beverly, MA location at (978) 969-6897, or visit our website.
References:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hidradenitis-suppurativa/symptoms-causes/syc-20352306
https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/hidradenitis-suppurativa-symptoms