How does AndHealth treat hidradenitis suppurativa?

 

Medically reviewed by: Dr. Drew Kurtzman, MD, AndHealth dermatologist

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic skin condition that causes painful, inflamed bumps—often in areas where skin rubs together, such as the underarms, groin, buttocks, and under the breasts. These bumps can resemble boils, may break open and drain fluid, and sometimes lead to scarring or tunneling under the skin. HS is not caused by poor hygiene and is believed to involve inflammation of hair follicles and immune system dysfunction. Infections may occur, but are not usually the primary inciting event for HS flares.

AndHealth treats people living with HS in Ohio and Indiana with a whole person, comprehensive approach. You will work with a coordinated dermatology care team with decades of experience, including a board-certified dermatologist and a clinical pharmacist.

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Common hidradenitis suppurativa symptoms

Symptoms often develop gradually and may include one or more from this list.

These and any other symptoms will be evaluated as part of your appointments with the AndHealth dermatology provider team.

 

 

  • Painful lumps under the skin
  • Blackheads or double-headed pimples
  • Leaking bumps or abscesses with foul-smelling drainage
  • Scarring or thickened skin in areas of repeated flare-ups
  • Tunnels (sinus tracts) forming under the skin

Lifestyle tips

While there is no cure for HS, lifestyle changes can help reduce flares and improve comfort.

These lifestyle habits may be part of a personalized treatment plan that your AndHealth dermatologist team creates for you, based on your health needs.

  • Wearing loose-fitting, breathable clothing
  • Gently cleansing skin with non-irritating, antibacterial washes
  • Avoiding shaving in affected areas
  • Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding smoking
  • Using warm compresses during flare-ups for relief

Specialty medications

For moderate to severe HS, specialty medications can reduce inflammation, prevent new lesions, and promote healing. These treatments target specific pathways in the immune system that drive chronic inflammation. They are filled by a specialty pharmacy.

These medications may be considered for your hidradenitis suppurativa treatment plan during your visits with your dermatologist and clinical pharmacist providers.

Medications used for hidradenitis suppurativa

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Cynn, dermatology patient

They actually care, they listen, and they create change.”

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