Are there any lifestyle modifications that help HS (hidradenitis suppurativa)?

There are many lifestyle changes that can help people manage hidradenitis suppurativa, says dermatologist Michelle Henry, MD, who covers strategies that may control symptoms.

Transcript

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All right, Dr. Henry. So I'm sure you're well aware, dealing with a lot of HS patients, that hidradenitis suppurativa

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and quite frankly, very frustrating. Are there any lifestyle modifications that we can make that would be of benefit?

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DR. MICHELLE HENRY: That's a great question. So there are many lifestyle changes that one can make to help them manage their hidradenitis

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suppurativa. Studies show that losing weight can help. So losing weight can decrease a number of areas

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where the skin rubs together. And reducing the number of skin folds that rub together can reduce friction and reduce sweat

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in the area. And although this will not cure your HS, it may give you some relief of your symptoms.

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Get more exercise. For starters, it will help you lose weight, but it might also just make you feel better.

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Consider eating lots of fruits, vegetables, lean protein. Having a well-rounded diet can help. Try to avoid stress.

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Although it's not always easy, trying to create a stress-free environment may be helpful. Try meditation.

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And if not meditation, maybe just carve out 15 minutes of quiet time for yourself. A calmer you may also help to calm your lesions.

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Quit smoking. Although I know this isn't the first time you've heard this, there are zero benefits to smoking and all sorts of health benefits for stopping.

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Consider trying to warm compress or warm washcloth on the area to reduce swelling. You can even use a warm teabag that's

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been steeped for a minute. Apply it to a painful nodule. You can try ice or cold compresses

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to really control localized pain. And don't forget to consider talking to your dermatologist to come up with an individualized

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or personalized skincare regimen to help manage your symptoms. Always keep your lesions clean. Use clean petroleum jelly to keep the wound moist.

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This keeps it from drying out and forming a scab. Consider covering the wound the a nonadhesive gauze pad and paper tape.

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This is especially helpful for those who might have adhesive allergy. To reduce the odor, consider smoking

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a washcloth in diluted white vinegar and applying to the area before dressing the wound. Change your bandage daily to keep the wound clean

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while it heals. Wear loose-fitting and breathable clothing to reduce friction on your skin.

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Try not to shave where you have breakouts. Keep your skin cool. While applying the heat can provide pain relief,

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overheating or sweating a lot can actually flare your HS. In the summer months, when it's warm,

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try staying indoors where it's cool to help reduce your flare. If you're having problems with excessive sweating,

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talk to your dermatologist who can recommend the right antiperspirant for you. And be mindful that some antiperspirants can be too harsh for those suffering from HS.