Understand
Hidradenitis
Suppurativa
Everything you need to understand HS - from the first symptoms to the science behind the disease. Clear, compassionate, evidence-informed explanations written for patients, not physicians.
New to HS?
If you have just been diagnosed, or suspect you may have HS, start with What is Hidradenitis Suppurativa? for a plain-language overview. Then use the resources below to go deeper into any area that matters most to you right now.
Everything You Need to Understand HS
Essential resources covering every dimension of understanding this condition. Each page is written in plain language, grounded in current evidence, and designed to be genuinely useful.
What is Hidradenitis Suppurativa?
A plain-language introduction to HS - what it is, why it happens, who it affects, and why it is so often misdiagnosed for years. Start here if you are newly diagnosed.
Hidradenitis Suppurativa Symptoms
Recognize the early warning signs of HS - from the first tender nodule to tunneling lesions. Includes a body map of affected areas and how HS differs from common boils.
Hidradenitis Suppurativa Stages
The Hurley staging system explained in plain language. Understand Stage I, II, and III, what each stage means for treatment options, and how staging guides your care plan.
What Does HS Look Like?
A visual guide to HS lesion types - nodules, abscesses, sinus tracts, and scarring. Understand the difference between active flares and chronic changes to your skin.
The Ultimate Guide to Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Our most comprehensive resource - a deep-dive covering causes, triggers, diagnosis, every treatment category, surgery, mental health, and living well with HS. Bookmark this one.
HS Research & Clinical Trials
The latest published research on HS causes, biologics, and emerging therapies. Includes links to active clinical trials and how to find a study near you.
Early Warning Signs of HS
The 7 early signs that distinguish HS from ordinary skin conditions. Learn to recognize what your body is telling you and act sooner - before lesions progress to tunneling.
HS vs Boils: What Is the Difference?
A clear side-by-side comparison of HS and ordinary boils across 8 key criteria. Understanding the difference helps you advocate for the right diagnosis and treatment.
Conditions Mistaken for HS
HS is misdiagnosed for an average of 7 years. Learn the 10 conditions most often confused with HS - from carbuncles to Crohn's skin lesions - so you can recognize misdiagnosis and push for the right care.
HS and Related Conditions
HS rarely travels alone. Research shows strong associations with metabolic, hormonal, and systemic conditions. Understanding these connections helps you and your care team manage the full picture of your health.
Is HS an Autoimmune Disease?
HS shares features with autoimmune conditions but is classified as autoinflammatory. This article explains the distinction, what it means for treatment, and why biologics work.
Is HS Contagious?
No - but the stigma persists. This article explains exactly why HS cannot be spread through contact, what actually causes it, and how to respond when others misunderstand.
HS and Anemia
Chronic inflammation from HS can suppress red blood cell production, leading to anemia of chronic disease. Learn the signs, how it is diagnosed, and what can be done.
HS and Diabetes
HS and type 2 diabetes share metabolic and inflammatory pathways. Understand the bidirectional relationship, how each condition worsens the other, and management strategies.
HS and Hormones
Hormonal fluctuations - particularly androgens and estrogen - directly influence HS flare patterns. This deep-dive covers PCOS, menstrual cycles, menopause, and hormonal therapies.
HS and Pregnancy
Pregnancy can change HS in unpredictable ways - some patients improve, others flare. This article covers safe treatment options, delivery considerations, and postpartum care.
HS in Men
Men with HS often present differently - more severe disease, different affected areas, and greater reluctance to seek care. This article addresses the unique challenges men face.
HS in Men: Complete Resource Hub
Unique presentation, diagnostic delays, mental health, exercise, and daily life guides tailored for men with HS.
Explore HubHS and Women's Health Hub
Hormones, pregnancy, menstrual flares, PCOS, and menopause - everything women with HS need in one place.
Explore HubHS vs Boils: See the Difference
One of the most common misdiagnoses. This anatomical diagram shows exactly why HS and boils look similar but are fundamentally different conditions.
Educational diagram only. Not a clinical photograph.
Read the full comparisonKey Facts About HS
HS is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition, not an infection.
It primarily affects skin folds: armpits, groin, under the breasts, and buttocks.
HS is linked to immune system dysfunction and hair follicle blockage.
Genetics play a role - about 30–40% of patients have a family member with HS.
Smoking and obesity are the two most modifiable risk factors for HS severity.
HS is associated with other conditions including IBD, metabolic syndrome, and depression.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is HS contagious?
No. HS is not contagious and cannot be spread through skin contact. It is a chronic inflammatory condition related to immune dysregulation and hair follicle dysfunction, not an infection.
What causes HS?
The exact cause is not fully understood, but HS involves a combination of genetic predisposition, immune system dysfunction, and environmental triggers such as friction, heat, and hormonal changes. It is not caused by poor hygiene.
Can HS be cured?
There is currently no cure for HS, but it can be effectively managed. Many patients achieve long periods of remission with the right combination of medical treatment, lifestyle adjustments, and in some cases surgery.
How is HS diagnosed?
HS is diagnosed clinically based on the pattern of lesions, their location in skin folds, and the history of recurrence. There is no blood test or biopsy that confirms HS, which is one reason diagnosis is often delayed.
What is the Hurley staging system?
The Hurley system classifies HS into three stages based on severity. Stage I involves isolated abscesses without scarring. Stage II involves recurrent abscesses with sinus tract formation. Stage III involves diffuse involvement with interconnected tracts and extensive scarring.
You Are Not Alone in This
Many people are navigating HS every day. Connect with the community, share your story, and find support from people who truly understand.
Ready to take the next step?