Hidradenitis Suppurativa and Its Impact on Daily Life

Hidradenitis suppurativa, or HS for short, is a chronic skin condition that can make life more difficult than it needs to be. At Hollywood Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologists regularly treat patients across Hollywood, Pembroke Pines, Hallandale, West Miramar, and Doral, Florida, who are living with the challenges of HS. Knowing more about the condition and how it affects your daily life is an important step toward getting the right treatment.

What Is Hidradenitis Suppurativa?

HS is a long-term inflammatory condition that causes painful bumps under the skin. These bumps often appear in areas where skin rubs together, such as the underarms, groin, buttocks, and under the breasts. Over time, they may rupture and leak fluid or form tunnels under the skin called sinus tracts. Scarring is also common.

This condition is not contagious, and it’s not caused by poor hygiene. In fact, many people with HS are otherwise healthy and have done nothing to cause the flare-ups. The exact cause is still being researched, but it appears to be related to inflammation and possibly a blockage in the hair follicle. 

How HS Affects Daily Life

The physical discomfort from HS is hard to ignore. Flare-ups can make it painful to walk, sit, or wear certain clothes. Many people avoid tight-fitting clothing or exercise because it can make the symptoms worse. Even everyday tasks like getting dressed or going to work can feel overwhelming when painful bumps are present.

HS can also affect your confidence. Because the condition often involves areas of the body that are sensitive or private, people may feel embarrassed about it. That emotional toll is real, and it’s just as important to acknowledge as the physical symptoms.

Treatment Options in South Florida

At Hollywood Dermatology, we tailor treatment plans based on the severity of your symptoms. Options may include:

• Self-care for mild cases, such as warm compresses and antibacterial washes.
• Topical or oral medications, including antibiotics, retinoids, anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, or immunosuppressants.
• Procedures for more severe cases, which may involve draining painful lesions, unroofing sinus tracts, or surgical removal of affected skin.

Get Expert Care for Hidradenitis Suppurativa

You do not have to manage HS alone. Our team is here to help you find relief and get back to feeling more comfortable in your body. Call 954-961-1200 to schedule a consultation at Hollywood Dermatology.