Have you ever felt the NEED to hide…YOUR SKIN?
Have you ever been in so much pain that you’ve had to remain home from work or school because of your skin? These are just some of the thoughts that people living with hidradenitis suppurativa face daily.
It’s ironic that despite the current widespread awareness of mental health, a condition as debilitating as hidradenitis suppurativa, which can severely impact a person’s confidence and drastically change their life in unexpected ways, isn’t being openly discussed among the public.
No clue what we’re talking about? You’re not alone. Also known as HS, hidradenitis suppurativa is a relentless skin disorder known to affect the hair follicles, appearing by way of painful lumps or pimples mostly in the armpits, groin or inner thighs. Some cases are atypical and appear in other more visible areas.
Image: Getty Images
Ready to step out of your comfort zone and explore the challenges of HS?
Contrary to appearance, this disorder is not a result of poor hygiene, nor is it contagious. Showing up in three distinct stages including mild, moderate and severe (stages I, II and III), this unique condition initially may present itself like an acne cyst or boil that eventually releases pus and/or blood. As flagrant as the release may be, what comes along with it is exactly what interferes with one’s psychological well-being.
For starters, certain groups bear the brunt more than others. For example, if you are African American, you are more likely to have HS, and you run the risk of hyperpigmentation. In addition, women are more likely to have it than men.
A typical day for someone with HS, depending on its stage may involve changing clothes multiple times due to draining scars, some of which require frequent dressing changes and may have an odor. The affected areas, known as lesions, run the risk of flaring up and potentially leading to septic shock. With that in mind, embarrassment is the least of worries when it comes to this disorder; instead, it is a frightening condition that can become life-threatening.
How does someone get HS? Are there triggers?
While the exact causes of HS remain undetermined according to the HS foundation, genetics, environment and hormonal factors may play a role in its development. Some additional triggers include sweating, smoking, scented soaps, lotions and tight clothing. Since this ailment often appears based on hormonal fluctuation, those with the condition are likely to have a flare-up if the pressures of life become unmanageable, making stress another trigger, (yes stress!). In addition, diet plays a hefty role in flare-ups as certain foods can cause inflammation.
Image: Getty Images
Why should I care? I don’t have Hidradenitis Suppurativa.
Because hidradenitis suppurativa is often confused with other conditions (including acne and folliculitis), it can take years to determine what exactly is going on. Increased awareness can lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment and improved quality of life for individuals with HS. By raising consciousness of this inflammatory disease, we can help decrease the stigma surrounding it and promote understanding and support for those living with the condition.
What is the solution to HS? How is it being treated?
While there is no cure, treatment has been known to help control it. Generally, patients meet with a dermatologist and discuss treatment plans that include wound care, pain management, diet plans and procedures.
This is a complex condition that needs a thorough management approach. By continuing to research its origins, understanding its triggers and keeping up with the latest advancements and awareness, we can work towards better outcomes for people with HS. Together, we can make a meaningful impact in the lives of those dealing with this tough condition.
Sources:
Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Causes (aad.org)
What is HS? (hs-foundation.org)
Hidradenitis Suppurativa | Conditions | Penn State Health
Hidradenitis Suppurativa & Follicular Disorders | Department of Dermatology (unc.edu)
What is HS? (hs-foundation.org)
Hidradenitis Suppurativa | Disease Characteristics (cosentyxhcp.com)
