9 Things That Could Make Anyone Living With HS Say “Me”

Living with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) means few days are the same. Learn more at NoBSaboutHS.com.

1. It's best to take things day by day.

With HS, some days are good and some days are challenging. On those days, you’ve learned it’s OK to say “no,” so you can focus on feeling better.

2. "Prepared" is your middle name.

Living with HS means staying one step ahead so you can brace for the unexpected flare-ups and be ready with bandages, gauze, and other HS supplies — including the phone number for your dermatologist in case of an emergency.

3. The best way to describe your relationship with HS: complicated.

It's not an easy thing to talk about, but discussing it with your dermatologist, as well as friends and family, can be a huge help.

4. “DIY” means something different to you.

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Having HS can often mean turning to DIY “solutions” that don’t seem to do the trick. And because everybody is different, what may be helpful for some can turn out to be harmful for others. So giving your dermatologist a heads-up about what you’re trying is super important. Dermatologists are specialists in inflammatory skin conditions like HS — so they can help you better understand treatment options.

5. You can crush complex internet searches in your sleep.

New findings about HS are being uploaded frequently. So to stay in the know, you’ve mastered filters and searches.

6. Your balancing act is an art form.

Between the emotional toll of HS and its physical demands, you find ways to balance like a boss so you can tend to your needs and keep living life.

7. HS has given you resting brave face.

Having HS can be time-consuming, exhausting, and disheartening. Still, on those challenging days, you're able to face them head-on and keep on pushing.

8. Finding a dermatologist who gets it may seem challenging, but it's essential.

Since HS is a condition that’s not very well known, it can be challenging to find a doctor familiar with it. Dermatologists, though, specialize in diagnosing and treating inflammatory skin conditions like HS, making them great partners to turn to.

9. Support can be a game-changer.

Knowing that there is a community of people who understand what you’re going through can be huge. Always remember that you’re not alone, and there are HS resources and support groups you can always reach out to.

Images from Getty Images unless stated otherwise.

HS may be challenging, but there's information, research, and resources designed to help along the way. Find more here, and be sure to talk to a dermatologist about treatment options.

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