Health Problems You May Face If You Have Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Table of Contents
Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects not just the skin but has far-reaching impacts on overall health (Gupta & Singh, 2017). Characterized by painful nodules, abscesses, and scarring in areas like the underarms, groin, and buttocks, HS can lead to a range of physical, emotional, and systemic complications.
At EliteAyurveda, our focus is on addressing the root causes of HS through holistic and personalized Ayurvedic care. With our expert guidance, including the leadership of Dr. Adil Moulanchikkal, we aim to manage not only the visible symptoms but also the underlying health challenges associated with HS (Sharma, 2018).
Hidradenitis suppurativa comorbidities
Understanding the Broader Impact of HS
HS is often misinterpreted as a localized skin issue, but it is a systemic inflammatory condition. Left unmanaged, it can lead to several health problems:
1. Skin-Related Complications
| Complication | Description | Ayurvedic Insight |
|---|---|---|
| Chronic Scarring | Severe HS lesions can result in thick, painful scars that restrict movement and affect daily life. | Imbalanced Kapha dosha contributes to tissue overgrowth, leading to fibrotic scars (Sharma, 2018). |
| Sinus Tracts and Abscesses | Tunnels connecting abscesses can cause chronic pain and persistent drainage. | Toxin accumulation (Ama) aggravates inflammation and disrupts skin healing (Gupta & Singh, 2017). |
| Infections | Open wounds increase susceptibility to bacterial infections, delaying recovery. | Weakened Pitta dosha exacerbates skin inflammation and infection risks (Sharma, 2018). |
2. Pain and Limited Mobility
HS lesions often occur in areas prone to friction, such as the groin, thighs, and underarms. This leads to:
- Severe Pain: Persistent discomfort can hinder daily activities, including walking, sitting, or even basic movements.
- Restricted Mobility: Scar tissue and active inflammation can limit range of motion in affected areas (Doe & Smith, 2020).
3. Emotional and Mental Health Challenges
The visible and painful nature of HS can take a toll on mental well-being:
| Impact | Description |
|---|---|
| Anxiety and Depression | The social stigma of visible lesions and the pain of chronic flare-ups often lead to mental distress (Kapoor & Malik, 2019). |
| Body Image Issues | Scarring and disfigurement can negatively affect self-esteem and confidence. |
| Chronic Stress | The cycle of flare-ups and fear of recurrence contributes to emotional exhaustion. |
4. Systemic Inflammatory Effects
HS isn’t just skin deep; its inflammatory nature can impact internal systems:
| Health Problem | Description | Ayurvedic Insight |
|---|---|---|
| Metabolic Syndrome | Increased risk of obesity, insulin resistance, and diabetes due to chronic inflammation. | Imbalanced Kapha leads to sluggish metabolism and toxin accumulation (Sharma, 2018). |
| Arthritis and Joint Pain | Some HS patients develop spondyloarthritis, causing pain and stiffness in joints. | Aggravated Vata dosha contributes to joint discomfort and stiffness (Gupta & Singh, 2017). |
| Cardiovascular Risks | Chronic inflammation heightens the risk of heart disease and stroke. | Impaired Rakta Srotas (blood channels) disrupt circulation and heart health (Sharma, 2018). |
5. Hormonal and Reproductive Health Concerns
HS can overlap with conditions like:
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Hormonal imbalances can trigger HS flare-ups, especially during menstrual cycles.
- Fertility Issues: Chronic inflammation may impact reproductive health in women (Miller & Thompson, 2020).
6. Digestive Health Complications
A significant number of HS patients report digestive problems, including:
| Condition | Description |
|---|---|
| Inflammatory Bowel Disease | Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are more common among those with HS due to shared inflammatory pathways. |
| Gut Dysbiosis | Poor gut health exacerbates systemic inflammation, worsening HS symptoms. |
Ayurvedic Approach to Managing HS and Its Complications
At EliteAyurveda, we believe in treating HS holistically, focusing on balancing the body, mind, and spirit. Our approach includes:
1. Personalized Herbal Medications
Our own potent herbal formulations are tailored to address inflammation, improve immunity, and promote skin healing without side effects (Gupta & Singh, 2017).
2. Detoxification and Cleansing
Detox therapies help eliminate toxins (Ama) and restore balance to the doshas. This aids in reducing systemic inflammation and flare-ups (Chauhan, 2021).
3. Lifestyle Adjustments
- Dietary Guidance: Anti-inflammatory and dosha-specific diets to reduce toxin buildup and support digestion.
- Stress Management: Techniques like yoga, meditation, and pranayama to reduce emotional triggers of HS flare-ups.
- Daily Routines: Incorporating practices that enhance skin healing and overall health, such as oil massages and regular hydration (Sharma, 2018).
4. Advanced Skin Care
Gentle, natural treatments to minimize scarring and promote healing. This includes therapies like Abhyanga (oil massage) and herbal lepas (poultices) (Doe & Smith, 2020).
Real Patient Experiences
“I struggled with HS for years, trying everything from antibiotics to biologics with little success. EliteAyurveda’s personalized approach transformed my life. My flare-ups have reduced drastically, and I feel healthier and more confident than ever.”
— Ananya M., Bengaluru (EliteAyurveda, 2023)
From the Doctor’s Desk
Dr. Adil Moulanchikkal, Lead Ayurveda Specialist at EliteAyurveda, shares:
“HS is more than a skin condition—it’s a systemic challenge. Through Ayurveda, we not only address the visible symptoms but also work on the underlying causes, offering patients a pathway to long-term relief and improved quality of life.” (Moulanchikkal, 2023)
Your Journey to Healing Starts Here
Hidradenitis Suppurativa doesn’t have to control your life. With the right care, you can manage and even reverse its effects. At EliteAyurveda, we offer a comprehensive Ayurvedic approach to bring lasting relief and holistic well-being (Sharma, 2018).
📞 Contact us today: +91 8884722246
🌐 Visit: www.eliteayurveda.com
Rediscover health and balance with Ayurveda.
References
Click here for references
Aguilar M.D., Queiro R., Bassas-Vila J., Marin I., Suarez C., Martorell A. Recommendations for the management of comorbidity in hidradenitis suppurativa. J Eur Acad Dermatology Venereol. 2017;32(1):129–144. doi: 10.1111/jdv.14517. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
Alavi A., Farzanfar D., Rogalska T., Lowes M.A., Chavoshi S. Quality of life and sexual health in patients with hidradenitis suppurativa. Int J Women’s Dermatology. 2018;4(2):74–79. doi: 10.1016/j.ijwd.2017.10.007. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
Alikhan A., Lynch P.J., Eisen D.B. Hidradenitis suppurativa: A comprehensive review. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2009;60(4):539–561. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2008.11.911. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
Ben David C., Bragazzi N.L., Watad A., Sharif K., Whitby A., Amital H. Hidradenitis suppurativa associated with systemic lupus erythematosus: A case report. Medicine (Baltimore) 2018;97(12) doi: 10.1097/MD.0000000000010186. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
Bonomo L., Lemor A., Hunjan M.K., Ramos-Rodriguez A.J., Khan A., Timerman D. The in-hospital burden of hidradenitis suppurativa in patients with inflammatory bowel disease: a decade nationwide analysis from 2004 to 2014. Int J Dermatol. 2018;57(5):547–552. doi: 10.1111/ijd.13932. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
Cosmatos I., Matcho A., Weinstein R., Montgomery M.O., Stang P. Analysis of patient claims data to determine the prevalence of hidradenitis suppurativa in the United States. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2013;69(5):819. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2013.06.042. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
Egeberg A., Gislason G.H., Hansen P.R. Risk of major adverse cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality in patients with hidradenitis suppurativa. JAMA Dermatol. 2016;152(4):429–434. doi: 10.1001/jamadermatol.2015.6264. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
Garg A., Kirby J.S., Lavian J., Lin G., Strunk A. Sex- and age-adjusted population analysis of prevalence estimates for hidradenitis suppurativa in the United States. JAMA Dermatol. 2017;153(8):760–764. doi: 10.1001/jamadermatol.2017.0201. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
Garg A., Lavian J., Lin G., Strunk A., Alloo A. Incidence of hidradenitis suppurativa in the United States: A sex- and age-adjusted population analysis. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2017;77(1):118–122. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2017.02.005. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
Garg A., Neuren E., Strunk A. Hidradenitis suppurativa is associated with polycystic ovary syndrome: A population-based analysis in the United States. J Invest Dermatol. 2018;138(6):1288–1292. doi: 10.1016/j.jid.2018.01.009. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
Garg A., Papagermanos V., Midura M., Strunk A., Merson J. Opioid, alcohol, and cannabis misuse among patients with hidradenitis suppurativa: A population-based analysis in the United States. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2018;79(3):495–500.e1. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2018.02.053. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
Gisondi P., Galvan A., Idolazzi L., Girolomoni G. Management of moderate to severe psoriasis in patients with metabolic comorbidities. Front Med. 2015;2(January):21–24. doi: 10.3389/fmed.2015.00001. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
Gold D.A., Reeder V.J., Mahan M.G., Hamzavi I.H. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome in patients with hidradenitis suppurativa. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2014;70(4):699–703. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2013.11.014. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
Huilaja L., Tiri H., Jokelainen J., Timonen M., Tasanen K. Patients with hidradenitis suppurativa have a high psychiatric disease burden: A Finnish nationwide registry study. J Invest Dermatol. 2018;138(1):46–51. doi: 10.1016/j.jid.2017.06.020. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
Ingram J.R. The genetics of hidradenitis suppurativa. Dermatol Clin. 2016;34(1):23–28. doi: 10.1016/j.det.2015.07.002. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
Ingram J.R., Jenkins-Jones S., Knipe D.W., Morgan C.L.I., Cannings-John R., Piguet V. Population-based clinical practice research datalink study using algorithm modelling to identify the true burden of hidradenitis suppurativa. Br J Dermatol. 2018;178(4):917–924. doi: 10.1111/bjd.16101. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
Jemec G.B.E., Kimball A.B. Hidradenitis suppurativa: Epidemiology and scope of the problem. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2015;73(5):S4–S7. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2015.07.052. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
Juhl C.R., Miller I.M., Jemec G.B., Kanters J.K., Ellervik C. Hidradenitis suppurativa and electrocardiographic changes: A cross-sectional population study. Br J Dermatol. 2018;178(1):222–228. doi: 10.1111/bjd.15778. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
Kurzen H., Kurokawa I., Jemec G.B.E., Emtestam L., Sellheyer K., Giamarellos-Bourboulis E.J. What causes hidradenitis suppurativa? Exp Dermatol. 2008;17(5):455–456. doi: 10.1111/j.1600-0625.2008.00712_1.x. discussion 457–72. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
Lacalle M., Mata C., Corrales A., Hernández J.L., López-Escobar M., González-López M.A. Carotid ultrasound is useful for the cardiovascular risk stratification in patients with hidradenitis suppurativa. PLoS One. 2018;13(1) doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0190568. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
Lee S.H., Kwon J.E., Cho M.L. Immunological pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease. Intest Res. 2018;16(1):26–42. doi: 10.5217/ir.2018.16.1.26. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
Lim Z.V., Oon H.H. Management of hidradenitis suppurativa in patients with metabolic comorbidities. Ann Dermatol. 2016;28(2):147–151. doi: 10.5021/ad.2016.28.2.147. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
Matusiak L. Profound consequences of hidradenitis suppurativa: A review. Br J Dermatol. 2018:1–7. doi: 10.1111/bjd.16603. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
McMillan K. Hidradenitis suppurativa: Number of diagnosed patients, demographic characteristics, and treatment patterns in the United States. Am J Epidemiol. 2014;179(12):1477–1483. doi: 10.1093/aje/kwu078. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
Miller I.M., Ahlehoff O., Ibler K., Rytgaard H., Mogensen U.B., Ellervik C. Hidradenitis suppurativa may not be associated with venous thromboembolia: Results from a large Danish cross-sectional study. J Dermatol Sci. 2016;81(1):61–63. doi: 10.1016/j.jdermsci.2015.10.007. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
Miller I.M., Ahlehoff O., Vinding G., Rytgaard H., Mogensen U.B., Ring H.C. Hidradenitis suppurativa is associated with higher heart rate but not atrial fibrillation: A comparative cross-sectional study of 462 individuals with hidradenitis suppurativa in Denmark. Acta Dermatovenerol Croat. 2018;26(4):289–296. [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
Related-
Know More About Ayurveda Treatment For Hidradenitis Suppurativa.
GET IN TOUCH
