Effective pain management for hidradenitis suppurativa typically involves a combination of prescription medications, over-the-counter pain relief, and lifestyle modifications. A doctor can work with you to create a personalized treatment plan.

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes small, painful skin abscesses (lumps).

It often occurs near hair follicles where skin rubs together, such as the groin, bottom, breasts, and armpits. It can result in severe pain, which can affect daily functioning.

A healthcare professional, such as a dermatologist, can work with you to create a personalized treatment plan to manage pain and address flare-ups.

Pain management for HS typically includes:

A doctor will prescribe medication for HS if you have hard or pus-filled abscesses under your skin.

Common medications for HS include:

  • Antibiotics. This medication can help if you have abscesses that are painful, inflamed, or leaking pus. Mild HS is typically treated using an antibiotic called clindamycin, which can work to reduce swelling and pain and treat any infections.
  • Resorcinol cream. This peel can help reduce inflammation and open clogged hair follicles. While it can take up to four months to see any effects, when used consistently, it can reduce pain, swelling, and pus.
  • Biologics. This medication is typically suggested for moderate to severe HS when treatment methods have not worked. Biologics can help reduce inflammation and the risk of infection.

HS can sometimes lead to the formation of tunnels, which are small, painful holes or cavities that appear between abscesses. A surgical procedure known as an excision can help to flush out the tunnel and remove it.

There are several home remedies that may help reduce symptoms of HS when used alongside other treatments. They can be particularly effective during a flare-up.

This includes:

  • Warm compresses. Applying a warm compress to the affected area can be an effective way to reduce pain and promote better drainage of lesions.
  • Wearing loose clothing. This can help to reduce friction against skin as well as sweating, which can worsen HS symptoms. If you have infected abscesses or tunnels, loose clothing is also less likely to stick to any pus, oil, or blood.
  • Regular, gentle cleansing. Ensuring you regularly cleanse any affected areas with antibacterial soap can help prevent the chance of infections.
  • Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers: OTC medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen may help to reduce pain.

There are various lifestyle measures that can help reduce symptoms and increase the quality of life with HS.

This includes:

  • losing weight if you have overweight or obesity
  • quitting smoking if you do smoke
  • finding ways to reduce and manage stress
  • eating an anti-inflammatory diet

It is also important to maintain open communication with a healthcare professional and inform them about any symptom changes or concerns you have.

Living with the daily challenges of HS can affect both your physical and mental health. Ensuring you have a good support system in place is vital.

Organizations who provide support to those living with HS include:

If your symptoms are negatively affecting your mental health, consider connecting with a mental health professional. They can work with you to develop the tools and techniques needed to manage the impact of HS.

Treatment for hidradenitis suppurativa can depend on the type and severity of your symptoms, but it typically focuses on reducing pain and inflammation and preventing flare-ups. It can involve a combination of prescription medications, over-the-counter pain relief, and lifestyle modifications.

Yes, hidradenitis suppurativa can lead to pain when walking. This can occur when lesions form on your body, causing friction when walking.

Hidradenitis suppurativa can often make it difficult to sleep due to the pain. Focusing on pain management methods such as using warm compresses, taking OTC pain relief, and creating a relaxing and comfortable sleeping environment can help.

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic and painful skin condition that can cause small, painful lumps under the skin.

Effective pain management techniques for HS typically involve a combination of prescription medications, over-the-counter pain relief, and lifestyle modifications.

A healthcare professional, such as a dermatologist, can work with you to create a personalized treatment plan to manage pain and address flare-ups.