Information On Managing Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Exploring Every Available Treatment
Managing hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) doesn't mean you're completely empty-handed. No cure yet, but you can certainly lessen the pain and prevent flare-ups. It's about combining home remedies, lifestyle adjustments, and medical help.
Those HS Symptoms (And The Stress That Comes With It!)
HS may seem like regular acne or other skin conditions, but it's usually best to get a diagnosis from a dermatologist. Breakouts, boils, or pimples-like areas are common, often showing up in armpits, under the breasts, on the genitals, lower abs, inner thighs, or around the anus. These bad boys can develop tracts, and may turn into abscesses that drain fluid or blood. Over time, you'll notice scars and dark areas, much like blackheads.
Let's not forget about the emotional baggage. The physical pain can lead to emotional distress, with many HS sufferers also battling depression and anxiety. A study found that 24 percent of participants with HS had mental health issues too. To deal with this, your doc might suggest counseling or support groups.
Medications (The Meds That Work!)
You may need different meds for your HS, depending on the situation. These help manage flare-ups, reduce inflammation, and ease pain.
Topical Magic (For Inflammation and Pain Management)
Some topical treatments could potentially help with inflammation and pain, like povidone iodine, chlorhexidine, clindamycin, hydrogen peroxide, triclosan, azelaic acid, retinoids, among others. Remember, some of these require a prescription from a dermatologist. Your doc knows best.
Pain Management (Manage Pain Like A Pro)
Your dermatologist may recommend the following to help handle the pain:
- Ice packs or lidocaine for topical pain relief
- Over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen
- Acupuncture
- Combinations of treatments for optimal results (e.g., topical lidocaine, ice packs, and ibuprofen)
Antibiotics (Yup, There's A Need For Those Too)
HS sometimes leads to bacterial infections. Your doc might take a swab to check for infection and prescribe antibiotics. In some cases, long-term antibiotics are used to manage inflammation as well.
The High-Tech Stuff (Biologics and Corticosteroids)
Biologics (like adalimumab) are special Meds made from living sources. They work on your immune system and are typically prescribed for moderate to severe HS. Your doctor might recommend other biologics off-label for HS management.
Corticosteroids (injected into lesions) can help with inflammation, but long-term use and side effects must be considered.
Other Special Meds (Still Worth a Try)
- Hormonal medications like spironolactone or finasteride may help manage HS
- Retinoids (oral acitretin) are prescribed to promote skin growth
- Oral antibiotics (like clindamycin, rifampin, metronidazole, or others)
- Metformin (a diabetes drug associated with HS)
Lifestyle Changes (It's Not All About Meds)
Home treatments and lifestyle changes can make your meds work better and help you manage HS more effectively. Some tactics include:
Diet and Supplements (The Power of Food)
A Mediterranean diet (with legumes, nuts, whole grains, fruits, and olive oil) might lessen the severity of HS symptoms. Research suggests eliminating dairy and sticking to a low glycemic diet may also help.
Smoking (Time To Quit If You Haven't)
Smoking is strongly associated with HS. Quitting (or reducing tobacco use) can help manage HS and improve overall health.
Personal Hygiene and Clothing (Comfort Is Key)
Wearing loose clothing and soothing personal care products can lessen irritation and prevent flare-ups. Keeping a journal of products that cause flares can guide your choices.
Surgical Options (Sometimes Necessary)
When HS becomes extreme, surgery may be necessary. Laser surgery and surgical removal of lesions might help in healing and prevent lesions from coming back.
- Your dermatologist, when discussing treatment options, may suggest consulting about biologics like adalimumab, which are specialized medications made from living sources and work on the immune system, particularly for individuals dealing with moderate to severe cases of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS).
- To manage the symptoms of HS, your doctor might question the necessity of certain topical treatments, such as povidone iodine, chlorhexidine, clindamycin, hydrogen peroxide, triclosan, azelaic acid, retinoids, among others, which can potentially help with inflammation and pain, but may require a prescription from a dermatologist.
- In situations where HS leads to bacterial infections, your dermatologist might take a swab to check for infection, and, depending on the results, prescribe antibiotics for an extended period to manage inflammation as well as treat the infection.
