Patient education: Hidradenitis suppurativa (The Basics)

What is hidradenitis suppurativa? — Hidradenitis suppurativa ("HS") is a condition that causes swollen, painful bumps to form on the body. The bumps usually appear in places where the skin rubs together. They can cause so much pain that they make it hard to move. They can smell bad or drain pus or blood. The bumps also tend to last for weeks or months and keep coming back.

Many people have a hard time dealing with their HS. It can make them feel embarrassed and worried. Sometimes, the condition can even cause problems in relationships, or in the workplace. If you have this problem, see a doctor or nurse. There are treatments that can help.

What are the symptoms of HS? — The main symptoms are swollen, painful bumps. These bumps can drain pus or blood.

The bumps usually form in places where the skin rubs together. Common locations include:

●Armpits (picture 1)

●On or under the breasts

●Groin area

●Inner thighs

●Buttocks

●Around or near the anus

The skin problems caused by HS last a long time and get worse over time. Often, the skin hardens and scars around the painful bumps. Many bumps can form in a single area and sometimes form tunnels under the skin (figure 1).

Should I see a doctor or nurse? — Yes. If you have symptoms of HS, see a doctor or nurse. They will look at your skin and find out if HS is the cause of your symptoms. Tell the doctor or nurse if you feel sad, upset, or embarrassed because of your symptoms. They can help you deal with these problems.

See your doctor regularly if you have HS. People with HS have a higher chance of getting other health problems, too, such as diabetes and heart disease. Your doctor can check for these problems and suggest treatment if needed.

How is HS treated? — Treatment can include:

●Antibiotic liquids or gels that you put on the affected skin

●Antibiotic pills, which you might need to take for a few months or longer

●Injections of steroid medicines into affected areas to bring down inflammation

●Hormone pills for some women with HS

●A medicine called adalimumab (brand name: Humira)

●Minor surgery

There are other medicines and treatments that might help people with HS. People with severe, long-lasting problems can have surgery that helps HS to heal.

Is there anything I can do on my own to feel better? — Yes. First, know that you did not do anything to cause your condition. It is not your fault. You did not cause it by being unclean. Also, HS is not contagious, and you cannot spread it to other people.

Some things that you can do to reduce your symptoms:

●Stop smoking, if you smoke. People who smoke are more likely to have HS. If you are having a hard time, your doctor or nurse can help.

●Try to lose weight, if you are overweight. HS is more common and more severe in people who are overweight. If you want to lose weight, your doctor or nurse can help you do this in a healthy way.

How can I learn more about HS? — More information is available online from the HS Foundation (www.hs-foundation.org).

These are also good resources if you are looking for support from other people living with HS. It can help to talk to people who are going through similar things.