Suppurative_hidradenitis is a chronic and painful skin condition that causes #abscesses and scars on the skin, and it often appears in areas with sweat glands and hair, such as: under the armpit, around the groin, buttocks, and under the breasts. Symptoms vary from mild to severe and include:
- Pimples resembling boils.
- Blackheads.
- Painful abscesses that discharge pus.
- Formation of channels under the skin that open and discharge pus.
- Scar formation over time.
These lumps may also appear in:
- The neck (from the back).
- The waist area.
- The inner thighs.
In some cases, a secondary bacterial infection occurs, requiring an antibiotic. The exact cause of suppurative hidradenitis is not precisely known, but:
- It usually starts after puberty (suggesting a role for hormones).
- It is associated with follicular obstruction.
- It worsens with smoking and obesity.
- It is related to conditions such as: acne vulgaris, increased hair growth, or Crohn's disease.
- About one-third of cases are hereditary.
Be aware; this disease does not arise from a lack of hygiene, and it is not contagious. Although the condition is chronic, symptoms can be managed and treated through:
1. Antibiotics; if the lumps are inflamed and filled with pus.
2. Antiseptics; such as 4% chlorhexidine used daily.
3. Retinoids; drugs derived from Vitamin A (such as: Acitretin)
– to be prescribed by a dermatologist only, and their use is prohibited during pregnancy.
4. Birth control pills; they help if symptoms increase before menstruation.
5. Immunosuppressants; for severe cases and are given by injection. 6. Corticosteroids.
7. Surgery; some difficult cases resort to it to remove lumps or formed ducts.
Tips for treating suppurative hidradenitis:
-Try losing_weight if you suffer from obesity.
-Quit smoking.
-Use an antiseptic wash or antibacterial soap.
-Apply warm compresses to drain pus.
-Wear loose clothing.
-Avoid shaving the affected areas.
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