What is Hidradenitis Suppurativa?
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes painful lumps to form under the skin in areas where skin rubs together. These areas typically include:
- Armpits
- Groin area
- Under the breasts
- Between the buttocks
- Inner thighs
Key Symptoms
- Painful bumps or boils that may break open and drain
- Blackheads, often appearing in pairs
- Tunnel-like tracts under the skin
- Scarring
- Recurring flare-ups in the same areas
Stages of HS
-
Hurley Stage I: Single or few isolated abscess formations without scarring or sinus tracts
-
Hurley Stage II: Recurrent abscesses with tract formation and scarring
-
Hurley Stage III: Diffuse involvement with multiple interconnected tracts and abscesses
Risk Factors
- Family history
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Hormonal changes
- Age (usually starts after puberty)
- Gender (more common in women)
Treatment Options
Medical Treatments
- Topical antibiotics
- Oral antibiotics
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Biologics (for severe cases)
- Hormonal therapy
Lifestyle Changes
- Maintaining healthy weight
- Smoking cessation
- Wearing loose-fitting clothing
- Regular gentle cleaning of affected areas
- Avoiding skin irritants
Surgical Options
- Incision and drainage (for acute flares)
- Deroofing procedures
- Excision of affected areas
Living with HS
Pain Management
- Over-the-counter pain relievers
- Warm compresses
- Proper wound care
Support Resources
- Support groups
- Mental health counseling
- Regular dermatology follow-up
When to Seek Medical Care
- New or worsening symptoms
- Signs of infection
- Significant pain
- Impact on daily activities
Prevention Strategies
- Regular skin hygiene
- Weight management
- Stress reduction
- Avoiding tight clothing
- Following prescribed treatment plan