| >> Does anything make HS worse? |
Changes in hormone levels can result in a worsening of HS: many women notice premenstrual flares (44% in one study2). Being overweight tends to make the condition worse. Moisture and rubbing of the skin folds in the groin, armpits and under the breasts encourages bacterial overgrowth and blockage of follicles, which exacerbates the disability the condition causes. Cigarette smoking is strongly associated with HS but studies have not been done to determine if quitting improves the disease. One study found that 83% of sufferers were cigarette smokers.3 Heat and sweating (some people find summer a difficult time).2 Stress and fatigue.2 Tight clothing and friction.2 Deodorants, cosmetics, shaving, scented toiletries.2 Some medications may cause or exacerbate HS: lithium and oral contraceptive pills have been reported. |
