If you were recently diagnosed withhidradenitis suppurativa (H.S.
National Library of Medicine.
The good news is that hidradenitis suppurativa is very treatable.
People with hidradenitis suppurativa say these are the seven most helpful questions to ask your doctor.
We asked people with H.S.
to share the most helpful questions they asked their doctors after being diagnosed.
Heres what they had to say.
Should I see a dermatologist?
For Kristin S., 37, it took 10 years to finally get diagnosed with hidradenitis suppurativa in 2019.
Prior to that, she was misdiagnosed with a lipoma (a lump of fatty tissue) and cysts.
She even had several procedures to remove the lumps.
Most dermatologists should be able to diagnose and treat hidradenitis suppurativa.
How severe is my case?
Hidradenitis suppurativa is categorized into three stages, depending on the severity of symptoms3.
The third stage is when lesions cause tunneling under the skin.
Your doctor will recommend treatment, depending on the stage of hidradenitis suppurativa you have.
usually need biologics, which are medications targeting the immune system to tame inflammation.
Knowing that she had stage two helped Kristin better understand her physician assistants recommendations.
How is hidradenitis suppurativa treated?
Kristin was relieved to learn she didnt need more surgery.
Does laser hair removal make sense for me?
According to theAmerican Academy of Dermatology(AAD), having less hair on areas with H.S.
can reduce the number of lumps you have.
The procedure also can be less effective for people with light hair, according to theMayo Clinic.
Can hidradenitis suppurativa affect my mental health?
Dealing with chronic pain and recurring lesions can definitely take a toll on your mental health.
We want to help take care of you as a whole person, not just your skin.
What are some misconceptions about hidradenitis suppurativa?
looks similar to an infection, people sometimes think its contagious or the result of poor hygiene.
But this couldnt be farther from the truth.
Hidradenitis suppurativa is an inflammatory medical conditionit is not an infection, Dr. Mayo says.
How can I connect with others who have hidradenitis suppurativa?
Getting diagnosed with H.S.
can feel isolating, but remember: Youre not alone.
Flood also recommendsHope for HS, a nonprofit advocacy group, to anyone looking for support.
