Redefining Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Living with a long-term skin condition may feel embarrassing, but we’re here to break the stigma.

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WHATS IS Hidradenitis Suppurativa

(

Hydra-den-itis Soup-ar-ativa)

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), also known as acne inversa, is a chronic (long-term) skin condition that causes painful lumps, abscesses (pus pockets), and scarring in areas with sweat glands, like the armpits and groin.

These symptoms often occur in areas where skin rubs together, such as the armpits, groin, and buttocks.

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Symptoms of Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) often presents itself with painful and recurring symptoms. Although HS can go undiagnosed for years, It’s crucial to recognize these signs early to seek timely treatment. Symptoms include:¹

Painful Lumps

These painful lumps can range in size from small peas to larger, inflamed nodules (growths). They often appear in areas where skin rubs together, such as the armpits, groin, buttocks, and under the breasts.

Tunnels Under the Skin

In severe cases, HS can cause tunnels (sinus tracts) to form under the skin, connecting the bumps.

Scarring

Repeated inflammation and healing can lead to raised or discolored scars and changes in skin texture.

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Risk Factors For Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Here are a few factors that might put you at risk for developing HS:²

Things you can't change:

Genetics: HS can run in families. If you have a close relative with HS, you may be more likely to develop it.
Sex: HS is more common in women than men.
Race: Black people are three times more likely to have HS than white people in the US.¹
Age: HS typically starts after puberty.

Things that might increase your risk:

Smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for HS. It can also worsen symptoms and make treatment less effective.
Excess weight: Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of HS and make symptoms worse.
Hormonal changes: HS may be affected by hormonal changes, such as those that occur during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause.
Certain medical conditions: HS is more common in people with conditions such as acne, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, heart disease, depression, anxiety, and inflammatory bowel disease.
Stress: Stress may trigger HS flare-ups.
Tight clothing: Tight clothing can rub against the skin and irritate hair follicles, which may worsen HS.

Things that might decrease your risk:

Maintaining a healthy weight: Losing weight if you are overweight can help reduce your risk of HS and improve symptoms.
Quitting smoking: Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your overall health and can also help improve HS symptoms.
Managing stress: Finding healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, relaxation techniques, and spending time in nature, may help reduce HS flare-ups.
Wearing loose-fitting clothing: Wearing loose-fitting clothing made of breathable fabrics can help reduce friction and irritation.
Gentle skin care: Using mild, unscented soaps and avoiding harsh scrubbing can help prevent irritation.