Hidradenitis Suppurativa

[PrincessPatty]

Was wondering if anyone has any tips on dealing with this?

Ive been dealing with this and Pilonidial cysts, my dermatolgist has given me a 4% peroxide wash and Clindamycin solution. They say there isnt much you can do, but I thought maybe others have some tips that have worked for them.

 

[daisylou]

I don't personally have this disorder, but I do have PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome). A lot of people with uncontrolled or undiagnosed PCOS seem to suffer from HS. I have heard that getting the PCOS under control (usually with metformin) greatly improves the HS. Do you have PCOS or symptoms of it (infrequent periods, weight gain, infertility, acne, hirsutism)?

 

[PrincessPatty]

Ive just read info linking the two disorders. I dont have PCOS, but do I have to ask my dr. to test for it?

Out of the list, I do have infrequent periods (controlled with BC) and some acne (usully accompanied with periods). Not sure as to infertiility, no significant weight gain (actually working on losing some!) and no hirsutism.

I have an appt. with my gyno coming up, should I ask him to test for it, or is it something that will show up with a PAP test?

 

[daisylou]

One of the major signs of PCOS is infrequent or irregular periods. I would be sure to mention testing for PCOS at your next appointment. It has been a long time since I was diagnosed but if I remember correctly, they usually check testosterone levels, fasting insulin (not blood sugar) and some other hormones. They can also verify the diagnosis by ultrasound, but if you are on BCP you won't have ovarian cysts.

I visit a good PCOS website called www.soulcysters.net There is a forum for skin issues where alot of people with HS visit. There is also a forum for people newly diagnosed. They would probably give you alot better info on tests than I can.

Good luck, if you do have PCOS, it is easily controlled. Going on metformin has changed my life for the better.

 

[PrincessPatty]

Thank you very much for your helpful information!! It seems like Im the only one who has this yucky problem!