Hidradenitis
Suppurativa Treatment
in Phoenix, AZ

Hidradenitis suppurativa is an extremely uncomfortable and frustrating condition to live with. If you are struggling with this issue, our specialists at Regency Specialties will be happy to help you. We offer personalized treatment plans designed to reduce flare-ups, manage pain, and improve your overall quality of life. With compassionate care and advanced treatment options, our Phoenix-based team is committed to helping you find lasting relief.

Table Of Contents

What Is Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)?

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition causing cysts, abscesses, sinus tracts, and scarring. It primarily presents beneath the arms, in the groin or buttock areas, or underneath the breasts. However, it can also occur elsewhere. HS is twice as common in females as in males, and typically presents between puberty and age 40. Several factors contribute to the development and worsening of HS, including:

Approximately 40% of people with HS have a first-degree family member with the skin condition as well. HS is more common in overweight or obese persons; however, it is not limited only to them. The majority of HS patients are smokers, and smokers are typically found to have more severe disease than non-smokers. Hormones are thought to play a role in HS because it is typically only seen post-puberty.

Symptoms of Hidradenitis Suppurativa

The first presentation of HS is typically an inflamed bump (nodule) underneath the skin in the armpits, groin, buttocks, or under the breasts. This nodule often progresses to form an abscess, which may or may not drain. With the development of many nodules over time, sinus tracts begin to appear; these are tunneling wounds underneath the skin. Subsequently, severe scarring can develop. HS can cause significant pain, recurrent drainage, and odor at the affected sites. Embarrassment, depression, and even an increased suicide risk have been noted in HS patients. It can significantly impact the quality of life. Hidradenitis suppurativa severity is staged using the Hurley clinical staging system, which is as follows:

Stage 1

Stage 1 is defined as single or multiple abscess formation without sinus tracts or scarring.

Stage II

Stage II is defined as recurrent abscesses with sinus tracts, scarring, and single or multiple widely separated lesions.

Stage III

Stage III is defined as diffuse involvement or multiple interconnected sinus tracts and abscesses.

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Treatment Options

Lifestyle Modifications

Weight loss and smoking cessation can help decrease the severity of HS. It is also recommended to wear loose, light clothing to avoid friction and trauma to the areas. Additionally, maintaining good hygiene and managing stress can help control symptoms.

Over-the-Counter Products

Over-the-counter antiseptic washes are advised, starting with once-a-week use on the affected areas and increasing to once daily as tolerated by the skin. Topical products containing benzoyl peroxide or antiseptic solutions can help reduce bacteria and inflammation. These options are generally safe and can be used alongside other treatments for enhanced results.

Prescription Medications

For more moderate to severe cases, prescription medications may be necessary. This can include oral antibiotics to control infection and inflammation, hormonal therapies for hormone-related flares, or biologic medications that target the immune system to prevent disease progression. Our specialist will determine the best medication based on your specific symptoms and overall health.

Surgery

Surgical options are considered for patients with advanced HS who do not respond to medications. Procedures may involve draining abscesses, removing affected skin, or performing wide excisions to prevent recurrence. Surgery can significantly improve quality of life by reducing chronic pain, odor, and scarring, but it is typically combined with medical therapy for long-term management.

Your Appointment: What to Expect

Initial Consultation

During your first visit, our specialists will discuss your HS symptoms in detail to understand how the condition affects your daily life. We will review your medical history and any previous treatments to get a complete picture.

Physical Examination

A thorough examination of the scalp and hair is performed to identify lice and nits. This careful assessment helps determine the most effective approach and whether additional treatments may be necessary.

Imaging and Tests

In some cases, additional tests such as magnetic resonance imaging may be recommended to evaluate the extent of tissue involvement beneath the skin. These tests help guide treatment planning and ensure that nothing is missed.

Discussion of Causes and Treatment Options

Our specialist will explain what is currently known about the exact cause of HS and discuss personalized treatment options. Together, we will create a plan designed to reduce flare-ups, manage pain, and improve quality of life.

Follow-Up Care

Follow-up appointments allow the team to monitor your progress, adjust treatments as needed, and provide ongoing support. Continuous care ensures that your HS is effectively managed and helps prevent complications over time.

Candidates for HS Treatment

Hidradenitis suppurativa treatment can benefit a wide range of patients, from those experiencing only mild symptoms to those with more advanced disease.

Individuals with early signs, such as red bumps that form under the skin or irritation where skin rubs together, can benefit from evaluation and care.

People who notice HS lesions in areas like the armpits, genital area, groin, or under the breasts should consider seeking treatment.

Factors such as excessive sweating, blocked hair follicles, or recurrent bumps in these regions may indicate the development of HS and warrant professional attention.

Early intervention can help prevent worsening symptoms and reduce the risk of scarring or chronic infection.

Benefits of HS Treatment

Reduces the frequency and severity of flare-ups
Minimizes pain, swelling, and discomfort
Helps prevent the formation of new HS lesions
Decreases scarring and long-term skin damage
Controls infection and drainage from affected areas
Improves hygiene and reduces odor associated with HS
Enhances mobility and daily comfort in affected areas
Boosts confidence and overall quality of life

Cost of HS
Treatment in
Phoenix, AZ

The cost of HS treatment in Phoenix, AZ typically ranges from $150 to $800 per visit, depending on the complexity of care and the specific treatments required. Insurance coverage may help offset some expenses, especially for prescription medications or procedures. During your initial consultation, our team will review your treatment plan and provide a precise estimate, so you know what to expect financially while receiving comprehensive care.

Explore Our Treatments for Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Our specialists offer a range of options designed to help you manage symptoms and control inflammation, improving your day-to-day comfort and quality of life. We stay up-to-date with new treatments and innovative approaches to provide the best care for both early and advanced cases of HS. Whether you are just beginning to notice symptoms or have struggled with the condition for years, our team will create a personalized plan tailored to your needs.

Take the first step toward lasting relief – schedule your consultation today and start managing your HS with professional care.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is it crucial to treat HS as early as possible?

Treating HS in the early stages is essential because it can prevent more severe symptoms from developing over time. Early intervention may include topical treatments, oral medications, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, topical antibiotics, or steroid creams to reduce inflammation and control flare-ups. Without treatment, painful nodules can form under the skin, increasing the risk of infection and scarring. In advanced cases, surgical interventions may be necessary. Since HS is often under-diagnosed, seeking care promptly allows patients to access clinical trials and other new therapies, helping prevent complications, draining pus, and improving quality of life.

Is the treatment permanent?

HS treatment is generally designed to manage HS rather than provide a permanent cure. Treatments aim to promote healing, reduce flare-ups, and minimize complications, but patients with a higher risk of recurrence may need ongoing care. Avoiding triggers like tight clothing and behaviors that cause bumps to break open can help, but long periods without treatment may lead to new flare-ups. Effective management requires consistent attention to the body and its symptoms.

What are the additional symptoms of HS besides abscesses, sinus tracts, and lesions?

Common symptoms of HS can include persistent redness, swelling, or skin changes around affected areas. Patients may experience painful abscesses that recur over time and irritation linked to hormonal changes or overactive sweat glands. Other signs can include itching, tenderness, or small red bumps that form under the skin before developing into larger lesions. Identifying these signs early and seeking effective treatment can reduce discomfort, prevent worsening disease, and improve overall quality of life.

Hidradenitis Suppurativa Treatment in Phoenix, AZ