Redefining Hidradenitis Suppurativa

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

What Is Hidradenitis Suppurativa?

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.

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.

Painful Lumps

Tunnels Under the Skin

Scarring

Want more information about this condition?

These resources might help

Managing Flareups of Asthma

Living with asthma? Our community member, Eriel, knows a thing or two about managing flare-ups or asthma attacks. In this video, Eriel talks about:

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.

Preventing Breast Cancer

Here are a few ways to prevent breast cancer:

Screenings

If detected early, it is easier to prevent breast cancer from spreading to other parts of the body. Getting regular screenings (mammograms) is one way to help detect and treat the disease early.

Self-Exams

Diabetes is another leading cause of CKD. If you have diabetes, carefully monitor your blood sugar levels and follow your doctor’s recommendations to keep them in a healthy range.

1. Keep your blood pressure in check

High blood pressure is a major cause of CKD. Get it checked regularly.  If it’s high, work with your doctor to manage it through lifestyle changes and, if needed, medication.

2. Manage your blood sugar

Diabetes is another leading cause of CKD. If you have diabetes, carefully monitor your blood sugar levels and follow your doctor’s recommendations to keep them in a healthy range.

3. Get moving

Regular exercise helps control blood pressure and blood sugar, which protects your kidneys.
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

Resources for Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Having a skin condition is nothing to be ashamed of – our resources are designed to help you redefine your HS.

HS Treatments

Living your best life starts with getting the right care for your HS.

Shout it From The Rooftops

HS is not contagious! Share this video if anyone tells you otherwise!

Share What #MyHSLooksLike

Download the graphic below to share your beautiful HS skin! Share on socials with #MyHSLooksLike