Signs and Symptoms

You may notice:

• Skin feels hot, sore, or itchy
• Black spots (blackheads) in small pits
• Painful lumps or boils that last for weeks or keep coming back
• Boils that burst and release pus or blood
• Skin that becomes hard, thick, or scarred
• Holes or tunnels under the skin
• Pain that makes it hard to walk, sit, or move

Why Do I Have This?

Doctors are not fully sure why HS happens, but:

• It is more common in women
• People with dark skin and from Sub-Saharan Africa are more likely to get it
• It often starts after puberty (teenage years)
• It may be worse if you:
  • Smoke
  • Are overweight
  • Wear tight clothes.
  • Live in hot or sweaty places
  • Feel a lot of stress

What You Can Do at Home

Here’s how to take care of your skin:

• Wash with mild soap or antiseptic wash (like benzoyl peroxide)
• Use warm cloth on the boil to help pain
• Wear loose, cotton clothes
• Don’t squeeze or cut the boil
• Shave carefully or avoid shaving
• Shower after sweating
• Stop smoking
• Try to lose weight if needed
• Reduce stress and talk to someone you trust

When to See a Health Worker

Go to the clinic or hospital if:

• Boils are very painful or keep coming back
• You have lots of pus or blood
• The skin is not healing
• You feel sad or embarrassed all the time
• You have difficulty moving
• You have new strange skin changes
• You want advice about treatment

What to Avoid

• Don’t use strong or harsh soaps
• Don’t wear tight clothes that rub your skin
• Don’t put unproven traditional creams
• Don’t touch or cut the boils

How to Prevent It from Getting Worse

• Stay clean and dry
• Don’t smoke
• Eat healthy and drink water
• Avoid stress
• Wear loose clothes
• Go to all your appointments
• Ask for support if you feel sad or lonely