Additionally, pockets (called sinus tracts), can also form under the skin.

HS abscesses often heal very slowly and can recur over time if left untreated.

Symptoms, treatment options, and personal experiences for various physical, mental, and health conditions and concerns.

a woman wearing an orange sports bra against a blue and yellow background

Unlike acne, which affects the sebaceous glands, HS develops in the sweat (or apocrine) glands.

Many patients suffer for years before they get a correct diagnosis, attributing it to badrazor bumps.

Through this exam, they will be able to tell if you have some sort of infection.

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If you do, in fact, have HS, it will be categorized into one of three stages.

Although tract formation is possible during Stage 2 of HS, it’s pretty minimal compared to Stage 3.

Stage 3 of HS is the most severe and is the stage that’s the most life-impacting.

illustration of where in the underarm area hidradenitissuppurativa boils may occur

Unfortunately, pain and scarring can be expected during this stage of HS.

HS most commonly develops after puberty, usually in your teens or 20s.

The condition is more common in women and people with a family history of HS.

a woman wearing an orange sports bra against a blue and yellow background

Additionally, HS is more common in people who are overweight and those who are smokers.

That being said, there are ways to help minimize HS flare-ups and to treat current HS lesions.

Additionally, one study suggests that brewer’s yeast can cause severe reactions in those with HS.

Brewer’s yeast can be most commonly found in foods including beer, pizza dough, and bread.

Because its more commonly found in women, HS is thought to be linked to an imbalance of hormones.

Not only can smoking negatively affect your lungs, but it can also impact your HS, too.

The friction because of tight, synthetic clothing could be irritating your HS lesions further.

“Stick to loose-fitting clothing to minimize friction on the skin,” suggests Zeichner.

This is probably a great time to pull out that matching, comfy, loose-fittingloungewear set.

When it comes to HS, dont overlook the power of an effective body cleanser.

There is one FDA-approved treatment for moderate to severe cases, says Zeichner.

Keeping your skin dry and sweat-free while at home may help prevent further HS lesions from popping up.

In some cases, antiperspirants can be irritating, says Zeichner.

Instead, Zeichner suggests sticking with a deodorant, rather than an antiperspirant, to neutralize body odor.

“Shaving under the arms is OK if you could tolerate it.

Read more onHidradenitis Suppurativa.

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