Hidradenitis Suppurativa - Medtick
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Hidradenitis Suppurativa

What is it?

Inflammation of the large specialised sweat glands (apocrine glands) that are found mainly in the chest (under breasts), armpits and groins and buttocks.

  • This condition occurs more in females develop more than males.

It can occur with other conditions:

Diagnosis tests

HS source

Cause

  • Hair follicles become blocked and inflamed
  • Hair removal from shaving or using depilatories
  • Deodorants
  • Irritation from anything rubbing against the affected area
  • Age-occurs in women between the ages of 20 and 29
  • Family history
  • Smoking

Syndromes

Symptoms

  • Distinctive mixture of boil-like lumps, mixture of blackheads?
  • Red lumps looking like boils?
  • Pus spots, cysts, areas leaking pus?
  • Scarring?
  • Hot, red and swelling of sweat glands?
  • Itchy and pain lumps?
  • History of acne in past?
  • History of long term abscess at base of spine?

Complications /Information to beware of/General tips:

This condition can lead to:

  • Skin infection
  • Scars and skin changes
  • Restricted movement
  • Obstructed lymph drainage
  • Social isolation
  • Cancer

General tips

  • Holding a warm or cool flannel (not cold directly i.e. ice as the change of skin temperature could make it worst) against the skin will encourage the cyst to heal and reduce any inflammation.
  • Wash any red, draining area(s) of hidradenitis suppurativa with an antibacterial soap, and then apply antiseptic ointment.
  • If there is a large amount of drainage, change the gauze pads and dressings often.
  • Avoid tight-fitting clothing to prevent further irritation.
  • Weight loss may decrease lesions by decreasing skin folds and, thus, friction on the skin.
  • Smoking should be avoided.

Please talk to your healthcare professional (i.e. Medical Doctor/Pharmacist) for further advice

Detailed Information

Please copy and paste any key words from the title: Hidradenitis Suppurativa in the following respective 'Medtick References and/or Sources' to find out more about the disease (this also may include diagnosis tests and generic medical treatments).

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