Re: Hidradenitis - could this be what I'm experiencing?

HI there...I got my issue right around the same age. Personally, I think it has to do hormones. I get a flare-up just before my cycle. What to do? I can only say what worked for me. My Derm. and I decided to use doxycycline for flare-ups only. I described to him that it was around my period, and seemed to travel around my body. The doxy stops it. After everything clears, I stop taking it rather than staying on a low dose. Things I did that helped: I use an antibacterial soap for washing in morning. Then if I sweat at all... I mean even a little I either shower immediately, (which means 2 &3 showers if it's hot) or I will take a bit of soap on a washcloth or papertowel and wipe myself down and try myself. This single thing has helped a great deal. I wear moisture wicking undies and have antibacterial undies (I buy men's cuz they're a lot cheaper than womens - sew up the fly and sew on little fun stuff, everyone thinks they're cute!) The bacteria is what causes the painful bumps and swelling/infections. I swear mine are related to my period more than anything. But if I stay clean and dry, I don't get infections. If I get an infection...i have to take the doxy until it's gone...then I'm good for another while. All of this has me down to one or may be two flares a year. I'm sorry...mine came on just after college too - it sucks but hopefully you can get it controlled!! Tweet