Hidradenitis suppurativa is a long-term skin condition that causes painful bumps under the skin. It usually occurs in the armpits, groin, buttocks or breasts¹. There is no cure for hidradenitis suppurativa, but treatments can help manage the symptoms and prevent complications⁴.
Some of the treatments include:
– **Topical treatments**: These are applied to the skin to reduce inflammation and infection. Examples are triclosan/benzoyl peroxide wash, topical clindamycin phosphate 1% with benzoyl peroxide, topical antibiotics (fusidic acid, dapsone, metronidazole), and topical resorcinol⁵.
– **Oral medications**: These are taken by mouth to control inflammation, infection or hormones. Examples are oral antibiotics (rifampicin, clindamycin), oral corticosteroids (prednisone), oral retinoids (isotretinoin), and oral contraceptives or anti-androgens (for women with hormonal imbalance)¹⁵.
– **Surgery**: This involves removing the affected skin and tissue to prevent recurrence or drain the pus. Examples are surgical excision, laser therapy, cryotherapy, and electrosurgery¹⁵.
– **Biologics**: These are injections that target specific parts of the immune system that cause inflammation. Examples are adalimumab and infliximab¹⁵.
Some of the self-care measures that may help include:
– Applying warm compresses to the affected areas
– Wearing loose-fitting clothes made of breathable materials
– Avoiding smoking and maintaining a healthy weight
– Practicing good hygiene and avoiding skin irritants
– Seeking emotional support and counseling if needed¹³⁵
Some of the natural or homeopathic treatments that some people may try include:
– Tea tree oil: This is an essential oil that has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It may help reduce swelling and infection of the bumps. However, it may also cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people⁶.
– Honey: This is a natural substance that has wound-healing and antibacterial properties. It may help soothe and heal the affected skin. However, it may also cause allergic reactions or increase blood sugar levels in some people⁶.
– Turmeric: This is a spice that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It may help reduce inflammation and pain of the bumps. However, it may also cause stomach upset, bleeding problems or interact with some medications in some people⁶.
Please note that these natural treatments are not proven to be effective or safe for hidradenitis suppurativa, and they may not replace conventional treatments. You should always consult your doctor before trying any of them.
I hope this information helps you understand more about hidradenitis suppurativa and its possible treatments. If you have any questions or concerns, please talk to your doctor or dermatologist. They can provide you with more personalized advice and guidance based on your condition and medical history.
Source: Conversation with Bing, 16/05/2023
(1) . https://bing.com/search?q=hidradenitis+suppurativa+cure.
(2) Hidradenitis Suppurativa – Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17716-hidradenitis-suppurativa.
(3) Hidradenitis Suppurativa (Acne Inversa): A Complete Picture – DermNet. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/hidradenitis-suppurativa.
(4) Hidradenitis suppurativa – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hidradenitis-suppurativa/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352311.
(5) 5 Hidradenitis Suppurativa Natural Treatments – Verywell Health. https://www.verywellhealth.com/hidradenitis-suppurativa-natural-treatments-5199755.
(6) Hidradenitis suppurativa – British Association of Dermatologists. https://www.bad.org.uk/pils/hidradenitis-suppurativa/.
