Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is an incredibly painful chronic skin disease; those that suffer from this disease typically experience boils and abscesses in the groin, buttocks, arm pits, and under the breasts in females. It is estimated that 1 in 100 people have HS when mild cases are taken into account, but this is a disease that is not well understood in the medical community. Some believe that HS may be an autoimmune disease, while others think it may be related to problems with the apocrine sweat glands or issues with hair follicles, and there currently is no known cure to eradicate this disease. If you suffer from chronic boils and abscesses in the groin, buttocks, arm pits or under the breasts, use the following tips to deal with this disease:
Find a Dermatologist who Understands HS
HS presents symptoms that are similar to infections or other skin conditions, so it is not uncommon for a person to live with the disease for many years without having a diagnosis. The chronic boils and abscesses associated with HS are often misdiagnosed as cellulitis, an infection due to an ingrown hair, or a staph infection. If you have chronic boils and abscesses that continually erupt in the same area, it is worth your time to search for a dermatologist who understands as much as possible about the disease and is up to date on the most current options to manage the condition.
Get Support
The pain associated with HS can be debilitating, and it is not uncommon for people with the disease to suffer from depression, isolation, and a low quality of life. It is incredibly difficult to live with a painful chronic skin disease, and it can be extremely frustrating to try different treatments only for them to help for a short while or not help at all. Having a support system of people who understand your condition and can help during the worst flare-ups can be invaluable. Visiting a therapist or psychiatrist may be helpful if your're suffering from severe HS and are living with depression as a result of your condition.
Research and Be Your Own Advocate
HS may not have a cure at this time, but the millions of people suffering from this disease are constantly looking for a way to put it into remission. Consider joining an online support group and trying the different remedies that have helped others control the disease. What helps one person with HS may not help another person, so it may take time and effort to find a regime that can help keep flare-ups under control so you can live with less pain. It is also worth your time to keep up to date by reading journal articles about studies concerning HS-- you may stumble upon new potential treatment options that your doctor may not be aware of. For help managing any skin condition, consult with a dermatology clinic, such as Desert Dermatology.
Share5 December 2015
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