Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic skin condition that causes painful, recurrent lumps under the skin, typically in areas where skin rubs together like the armpits, groin, and under the breasts. At Golla Center for Dermatology in Pittsburgh, our expert dermatologists specialize in diagnosing and managing HS to help you find relief and improve your quality of life.

What Is Hidradenitis Suppurativa?

HS is more than just occasional boils or acne—it’s a persistent inflammatory condition that can lead to:

Painful nodules or abscesses
Tunnels under the skin (sinus tracts)
Scarring over time
Recurrent flare-ups

HS often starts after puberty and can worsen without proper treatment. While the exact cause isn’t fully understood, factors like genetics, hormones, and immune system issues may play a role.

How We Treat Hidradenitis Suppurativa

At Golla Center for Dermatology, we offer personalized treatment plans to manage HS symptoms and prevent flare-ups. Here are some of the most effective options:

1. Medical Therapies

Topical Treatments: Antibacterial washes or prescription creams to reduce inflammation and infection.
Oral Antibiotics: For moderate HS to control bacteria and inflammation.
Hormonal Therapy: For HS linked to hormonal fluctuations (especially in women).
Biologics (e.g., Humira): Advanced treatment for severe HS to target inflammation at the source.

2. Lifestyle & Home Care

Gentle Skincare: Avoid harsh soaps and tight clothing that irritates skin.
Warm Compresses: To ease pain and encourage drainage of flare-ups.
Weight Management: Reducing friction in skin folds can help prevent HS worsening.

3. Surgical & Procedural Options

Incision & Drainage: For painful abscesses needing immediate relief.
Laser Therapy: To reduce hair follicles and bacteria in affected areas.
Surgical Removal: For severe, recurring HS lesions that don’t respond to other treatments.

How We Treat Excessive Sweating

At Golla Center for Dermatology, we offer proven treatments to reduce sweating and boost your confidence:

Prescription-Strength Antiperspirants
Botox® Injections (FDA-Approved
miraDry® (Permanent Solution)
Oral Medications

“Struggling with painful HS flare-ups? Golla Center for Dermatology in Pittsburgh offers expert hidradenitis suppurativa treatment, from biologics to laser therapy. Find relief today!