What are the Symptoms of Hidradenitis Suppurativa and Its Treatments?

Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Hidradenitis Suppurativa is a condition affecting certain sweat glands found in some areas in the body. The aprocine glands becomes clogged or plugged for unknown reasons. This causes the formation of pus and scars in the affected skin, particularly in the groin and underarms. This condition can be comparable to acne which affects the sebaceous glands.

Thus, people who often develop acne are prone of developing hidradenitis suppurativa.

African-American females are rather more at risk of acquiring this disease. It begins as a single reddish and tender swelling in the underarm or groin area. This will then develop into an engorged lesion and a pus-like material comes out of it. When this heals, an ugly scar develops. The condition can possibly occur again in the future.

Hidradenitis Suppurativa Causes

When the sweat or oil glands or the openings of hair follicles are clogged with dead skin cells, oil, fluid or other materials, it triggers hidradenitis condition. And when these are mixed with sebum, they are caught in the tissues around which becomes a breeding ground for bacteria.

When bacteria propagate, infection occurs.

Some of the triggering factors and conditions include:

• Hereditary condition

• Hormonal imbalance

• Excessive smoking

• Obesity or excessive weight

• Grave’s disease

• Crohn’s disorder

What are the Symptoms of Hidradenitis Suppurativa

The following are the symptoms of this condition:

• Pimple-sized bulging that can be painful – These develop underneath the skin and lasts for a long period of time, become engorged and eventually infected.

• Tender and reddish swelling – These bumps or lesion-like structures can break where pus and yellowish substances come out. Burning sensation and itching can be felt in the affected areas.

• Blackheads – In rough and bumpy area, blackheads usually develop in pairs.

• Open sores – When the bumps become broken they would heal eventually but burrows would form underneath the skin.

Hidradenitis Suppurativa Treatment

There is no definite treatment for this disease. Nevertheless, symptoms and worsening of complications can be managed. Treatment options depend on the degree of the condition and the skin areas affected. In curing hidradenitis suppurativa, these can be used:

• Surgery – In cases of recurrent condition and extreme symptoms, surgical removal can be indicated. This involves removal of the affected areas, and skin grafting follows.

• Oral retinoid drugs – This medication prevents plug formation within the hair follicles and inhibit over activity of the oil glands.

• Immunosuppressant or corticosteroids – These help in minimizes swelling, particularly in the early stage.

• Antibiotics – This would combat the bacteria formation and prevents the breaking of the skin.

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications – These reduces pain and inflammation.