An Overview Of Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Posted on: 29 March 2023
Are you suffering from Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)? If so, you are not alone. The National Institutes of Health estimate that up to four percent of the population suffers from this chronic skin condition that can be physically and emotionally debilitating. Here's a closer look at what causes HS, its symptoms, and its treatments.
What Is Hidradenitis Suppurativa?
Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the sweat glands in the skin. It usually appears as red bumps or lumps filled with pus and can be painful and itchy. While it looks like acne, Hidradenitis suppurativa, also called acne inversa, is not acne. However, it is painful and can significantly impact the quality of life.
What Are the Symptoms of Hidradenitis Suppurativa?
The most common symptom of HS is an area of redness on your skin accompanied by bumps or lumps filled with pus. These lesions may be painful and itchy, and they can break open and release fluid or blood. They may also form tunnels under your skin that connect two separate areas of infection. The most common areas affected by Hidradenitis Suppurativa include the armpits, groin area, buttocks, under the breasts, inner thighs, scalp, face, and back.
Who Is Susceptible to Hidradenitis Suppurativa?
HS can affect anyone, but experts state that if you "are an African American or biracial woman between 30 and 39 years of age, you have a higher risk of developing HS." Additionally, women are more likely to develop HS than men due to hormonal differences between genders. People with family members who have HS may also be at increased risk for developing the condition themselves.
What Are Hidradenitis Suppurativa Treatment Options?
There is no cure yet, but there are treatments available to help manage symptoms, including:
- Antibiotics to reduce inflammation caused by bacterial infection
- Topical creams to reduce itching
- Oral medications
- Steroid injections
- Laser therapy
- Surgery to remove scar tissue
- Lifestyle modifications such as avoiding tight clothing
- Stress management techniques like yoga or meditation
- Weight loss
Your doctor will recommend Hidradenitis suppurativa treatment based on your individual symptoms and needs.
No matter how severe your symptoms might be, Hidradenitis suppurativa treatments are available. It's important to talk to your doctor about your symptoms to get an accurate diagnosis and find the right course of treatment for you. With the right knowledge and support system in place, you can live with HS without letting it take over your life.
For more information on Hidradenitis suppurativa treatment, contact a professional near you.
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