Hidradenitis Suppurativa is usually different for each individual, so it can be challenging to predict exactly what it’ll be like for you. However, along with your customized treatment plan, there are ways to manage this skin condition. Also, it’s crucial to understand how this skin condition can affect your life so that you can make helpful lifestyle adjustments. Here are the common questions about hidradenitis suppurativa treatment at home and how to cope with this condition.
Hidradenitis Suppurativa Treatment at Home
1. How long will you have HS?
Well, there is no specific cure for HS, which means you will have to manage it for many years, even with hidradenitis suppurativa treatment at home. For most people, HS is a cycle of mild or severe flare-ups and periods when the skin is clear. Also, breakouts may happen in the same skin area, but you have spots that stay broken out for an extended period. Note that some people, especially women, find their Hidradenitis Suppurativa clears ups after menopause.
2. Will HS get worse?
Hidradenitis Suppurativa is a progressive disease, which means it’s likely to get worse over time. For instance, a small pimple or lump can turn into an abscess or boil within days, raptures beneath the skin, the inflammation spreads out quickly, and other small lumps form nearby. Flare-ups can last a week or two. Fortunately, timely hidradenitis suppurativa treatment at home can prevent HS from worsening and prevent severe Hidradenitis Suppurativa symptoms. The secret is to start hidradenitis suppurativa treatment at home early.
3. How often should you see a dermatologist or doctor?
Your Hidradenitis Suppurativa symptoms and how your body responds to a specific treatment plan will determine how often you will need to see a dermatologist or doctor. If you have mild HS, you can still manage the symptoms on your own. But if you prefer taking medication that’s delivered through a vein or injected, you may need to see a medical expert regularly. Alternatively, you can schedule hidradenitis suppurativa treatment at home with your specialist if that’s possible.
4. Will HS cause other health issues?
Most people with HS have other health conditions, such as arthritis, severe acne, diabetes, inflammatory bowel syndrome, obesity, and more. Medical research still doesn’t know why these health conditions are often linked to Hidradenitis Suppurativa.
Note that HS rarely causes other medical conditions. However, individuals who have it for an extended period may be more susceptible to a type of skin cancer known as squamous cell carcinoma. Remember, timely hidradenitis suppurativa treatment at home or a specialist facility can make a significant difference.
5. Will you experience pain daily or only during HS flare-ups?
Well, it depends on there the Hidradenitis Suppurativa severity. Large, deep lumps can hurt more than small nodules just below the skin. And depending on the specific area affected, you may experience discomfort when walking or sitting. Some people only get these painful nodules during severe flare-ups.
Whether you have pain daily or only during a flare-up, your dermatologist will help you control it. It’s possible to get over-the-counter prescription pain medication to manage the pain and discomfort associated with this skin condition. Keep in mind that you should consult with your doctor before you start hidradenitis suppurativa treatment at home.
6. Will you smell bad during HS flare-ups?
The lumps themselves do not smell, but the blood-pus mixture inside them does. So, when they break and leak, you are likely to experience odor. Therefore, it’s recommended to wear loose clothing and don’t rub anything against the cysts. Also, don’t squeeze them. When they burst, carefully wash the affected area gently with an antiseptic cleanser to eliminate the bad smell. Antibiotics can be helpful too.
7. How frequently do HS flare-ups happen?
Hidradenitis Suppurativa is an unpredictable skin condition. Perhaps you will experience flare-ups every one to two weeks. Sometimes, you may even go for several months with clear, healthy skin. Some women often experience HS flare-ups immediately before their periods, while others don’t get breakouts during the entire pregnancy and breastfeeding period.
Generally, there is no sure way of preventing HS flare-ups. However, they may not show up as often or be as bad if you stick to a good treatment plan. So, make the specific lifestyle changes your doctor recommends and take the prescription medication he or she recommends. Some of the helpful lifestyle changes include;
- Maintain a healthy weight: Hidradenitis Suppurativa is closely linked to obesity. Therefore, losing weight is one of the top ways to keep HS flare-ups under control.
- Stay cool: Hidradenitis Suppurativa often worsens during summer, when excessive heat and sweat can trigger a breakout. Swimming is a great way to exercise without overheating.
- Do not shave near an affected area: If your razor irritates your skin, laser hair removal is a better choice.
- Make well-thought-out dietary choices: There is evidence that it can be helpful to cut sugar and dairy from your diet. Please consult with your doctor before trying it.
