: Small, pitted areas of skin, often appearing in pairs or clusters. Common Management Strategies
not caused by poor hygiene and is not contagious. Target Areas: It typically affects areas where skin rubs together, primarily the armpits, groin, and under the breasts. Who is Affected: It is more common in women, Black individuals, and those between the ages of 18 and 55. nhs.uk +5 Common Symptoms The symptoms range from mild to severe and often "flare up" periodically: Mayo Clinic +1 Painful Lumps: Firm, pea-sized nodules under the skin that may last for weeks or months. Abscesses: Pockets of pus that may swell, rupture, and drain fluid with a strong odor. Sinus Tracts: Small "tunnels" that form under the skin between different lumps. Scarring: Thick, rope-like scars that can form as lesions heal over time. Mayo Clinic +6 Risk Factors and Triggers While the exact cause is unknown, certain factors are linked to worse symptoms: Smoking: Highly associated with increased severity and more frequent flares. Weight: Excess weight can increase skin friction and worsen inflammation. Genetics: About one-third of people with HS have a family history of the condition. Mayo Clinic +4 Management and Treatment Options Because it is a chronic condition, treatment focuses on reducing flares and preventing scarring. Cleveland Clinic +1 Treatment Type Examples At-Home Care Warm compresses to reduce swelling; using antiseptic washes like benzoyl peroxide . Medication Topical or oral antibiotics (like doxycycline); hormone therapy; or biologics for severe cases. Lifestyle Changes Quitting smoking and wearing loose-fitting clothing to minimize friction. Procedures Laser hair removal to reduce follicle blockage; surgical "deroofing" or excision of tunnels in advanced stages. If you notice recurring painful lumps or drainage in your underarms, it is important to see a dermatologist early for an accurate diagnosis. WebMD +1 Would you like to know more about the sweat gland infection underarm
According to Mayo Clinic , symptoms often progress through these stages: : Small, pitted areas of skin, often appearing
: Over time, "sinus tracts" or narrow tunnels form under the skin, connecting the lumps. Who is Affected: It is more common in