Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Hidradenitis Suppurativa is a chronic skin condition that most medical professionals consider to be a severe form of acne. The main symptom is clusters of black and abscesses, which can be very large in size. For those that are affected by Hidradenitis Suppurativa, the problem can be a very embarrassing one. Here, you will find information about the causes, symptoms and treatment options of Hidradenitis Suppurativa.

Hidradenitis Suppurativa Causes

The exact causes of Hidradenitis Suppurativa cannot yet be determined; however, there are a number of different risk factors which are believed to have an impact on your chance of developing the skin condition. Hidradenitis Suppurativa tends to run in families and usually only affects people after they have gone through puberty. It is believed to be more common among females than males, but this is very controversial. Some experts think that females are more concerned about the appearance of their skin and males may just let the problem go undiagnosed and untreated. Obesity is believed to worsen the skin condition, but is not considered to be a direct cause. Research has shown that the skin condition tends to be more common among African-Americans and Latinos. It has been said that frequently wearing tight clothing may cause you to experience this problem. Smoking, chronic sweating, chronic bacterial infections and hormonal problems are all believed to contribute to your likelihood of developing Hidradenitis Suppurativa.

Hidradenitis Suppurativa Symtoms

The main symptom of Hidradenitis Suppurativa is clusters of blackheads and abscesses, which can range in size anywhere from a pea to larger than a tennis ball. Over time, the size of the abscesses will begin to increase. The abscesses will also generally begin to ooze discharge. The skin that has been affected will often begin to rise between blackheads and abscesses, causing a "tunnel" appearance. Unfortunately, each abscess that you experience will usually last for about a year or maybe even longer, depending on your own specific case. Along with these common symptoms, the areas of skin that have developed blackheads and abscesses can get to be very painful and, in some cases, scarring may occur.

Hidradenitis Suppurativa Treatment

If you do not want to have scars on the areas of skin that become affected by this common skin condition or you simply do not want to feel embarrassed, you may want to consider having Hidradenitis Suppurativa treated. Some of the available treatment options include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, incision and drainage, surgical removal and cutting skin away from the tunnels that may be underneath the skin.

There are various other treatment options available as well. If you become diagnosed with Hidradenitis Suppurativa, it is a good idea to discussion what the best treatment option for you would be. Keep in mind that Hidradenitis Suppurativa treatments are considered cosmetic and, for this reason, most health insurance companies will not cover the cost. Some exceptions may include if you experience pain or itching, but even then it will be difficult to have your health insurance cover it and they may only want to pay for a portion of the expense.