The Basics
Written by the doctors and editors at UpToDate � �
What is hidradenitis suppurativa? " � Hidradenitis suppurativa is a condition that causes red, swollen, painful bumps to form on the body, usually in places where the skin rubs together. These bumps 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 linger for weeks or months and keep coming back. � �
People who have hidradenitis suppurativa, also called "HS, " � often have a hard time dealing with their problem. 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 you. � �
What are the symptoms of HS? " � The main symptoms are red, 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
- On or under the breasts (in women)
- In the 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. Plus, many bumps can form in a single area and sometimes form tunnels under the skin. � �
Should I see a doctor or nurse? " � Yes. If you have symptoms of HS, see a doctor or nurse. He or she can look at your skin and find out if HS is the cause of your symptoms. Make sure you tell the doctor or nurse if you feel sad or embarrassed because of your symptoms. The doctor or nurse can help you deal with these problems. � �
How is HS treated? " � Treatment can include: � �
- Antibiotic liquids or gels that you put on the affected areas
- Antibiotic pills, which you might need to take for a long time
- Injections of steroid medicines into affected areas to bring down inflammation
Women with HS sometimes also take hormone treatments to improve their condition. This usually involves taking a birth control pill every day. Sometimes women take other types of hormone medicines, too. � �
People with severe, long-lasting problems can have surgery that helps HS to heal. They can also get special medicines that can reduce inflammation in the skin. � �
Is there anything I can do on my own to feel better? " � Yes. First, you should know that you did not do anything to cause your condition. It is not your fault. You did not cause it by being unclean. You should also know that you cannot spread your condition to anyone else. It is not "contagious. " � � �
Here are some things you can to reduce your symptoms: � �
- Do not wear tight-fitting clothes.
- Try to avoid activities that cause your skin to rub against itself a lot.
- Shower every day and wash areas of HS gently with your fingers. Do not scrub affected areas with a washcloth, loofah, or brush.
- Stop smoking, if you smoke. People who smoke are more likely to have HS.
- Lose weight, if you are overweight. HS is more common and more severe in people who are overweight.
All topics are updated as new evidence becomes available and our peer review process is complete. � �
This topic retrieved from UpToDate on: Nov 04, 2014. � �
Topic 83523 Version 3.0 � �
Release: 22.8 - C22.208 � �
� � 2014 UpToDate, Inc. All rights reserved. � �
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