Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) Treatment & Symptoms | Charlotte Dermatology Blog
PATIENT PORTAL PAY BILL ABOUT
logo for Charlotte Dermatology
Find a Provider
Find a Provider
Search for an expert practitioner specialized in helping you with your skincare needs.
Kinsleigh Shah, PA-C
Gary B. Slaughter, Jr., MD
Hope Soden, CME
Mary Crawford Tanner, PA-C
Bryanna Uhlir, PA-C
Stephanie M. Weaver, PA-C
View All
Locations
Find a Location
Search for a convenient office location where you can access our services quickly and easily.
7th Street Office
Cornelius Office
Matthews Office
Myrtle Beach (8208 Devon Ct)
Myrtle Beach (8212 Devon Ct)
Rocky River - Harrisburg Office
Steele Creek Office
University Office
Waverly Office
View All
Mohs Surgery
Mohs Surgery
Explore our Mohs surgery options for expert skin cancer treatment and care.
Medical
Medical Services
We have a wide range of services designed to address your specific skincare needs.
Conditions Acne
Actinic Keratosis
Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
Hair Loss & Alopecia
Melanoma
Moles
Psoriasis
Rashes
Rosacea
Scars
Skin Cancer
Spider Veins
Vitiligo
Warts
View All
Treatments & Procedures Biologics & Topical Medications
Excisions & Biopsies
Mohs Surgery
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)
Procedural Dermatology
XTRAC Laser
View All
Aesthetic
Cosmetic Services
Our cosmetic services are tailored to remedy your skincare needs.
Conditions Acne
Brown Spots and Discoloration
Enlarged Pores
Lines and Wrinkles
Nail Disorders
Skin Pigmentation
Thinning Eyelashes
View All
Treatments & Procedures Blue Light Photodynamic Therapy (BLU-U)
Chemical Peels
Laser Genesis
Laser Hair Removal
Laser Vein Treatments
Latisse®
Microdermabrasion
Microneedling
Microcurrent Facials
View All
SCHEDULE NOW
logo for Charlotte Dermatology
MENU
CLOSE
blog

Understanding Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)

April 23rd, 2025 | By: Admin

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects areas of the body containing sweat glands, such as the armpits, groin, and under the breasts. Patients with HS often experience painful boils and abscesses that flare up intermittently in these areas. This condition is more commonly seen in females, typically between the ages of 20 and 40.


Risk Factors for Hidradenitis Suppurativa

While the exact cause of HS is not fully understood, there are several risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition. These include:

  • Smoking
  • Genetics
  • Insulin resistance
  • Obesity
  • Crohn’s disease
  • Mechanical stress
  • Hormonal changes

Although there is no cure for HS, there are effective treatment options that can help control the symptoms and reduce flare-ups.


How Do You Get Hidradenitis Suppurativa?

HS is believed to be an autoimmune condition that causes the hair follicles to become clogged. This leads to inflammation, bacterial build-up, and the eventual formation of painful boils that can rupture and cause scarring. While the precise cause remains unclear, the condition’s progression is linked to these factors.


Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

If you suspect you may have HS, look for the following symptoms:

  • Painful boils and cysts in the armpits, groin, or under the breasts
  • Lesions that come and go, causing intermittent pain
  • Cysts that rupture and drain, potentially leading to scarring
  • Lesions that appear bilaterally (on both sides of the body)

Treatment Options for Hidradenitis Suppurativa

While HS cannot be cured, there are various treatment options to help manage the condition and prevent flare-ups. Some of the most common treatments include:

  • Topicals: Benzoyl peroxide washes, clindamycin solution
  • Oral antibiotics: Tetracycline, minocycline, doxycycline, clindamycin, erythromycin
  • Oral medications: Isotretinoin, prednisone Injections: Kenalog, Humira
  • Surgical options: Incision and drainage (I&D), excision

Treatment Goals for HS

The primary goals in treating HS are to relieve pain, reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups, and prevent the condition from worsening over time. Early intervention can help improve quality of life and minimize scarring.


Seek Help if You Think You Have HS

If you think you may have HS or are looking for more information on how to manage this chronic condition, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with us. Our dermatology experts can guide you through effective treatment options and help you find relief. Make an appointment here!


READY TO GET STARTED?
We would love to get started on a solution that perfectly fits your needs.
SCHEDULE NOW