Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) & other conditions (comorbidities)

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic systemic inflammatory disease, and people with HS may also have one or more conditions at the same time. These are called hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) comorbidities.

Comorbidities is a scientific term that simply refers to other conditions that are more likely to happen at the same time as your HS symptoms. Just because you have HS doesn't mean you will develop these comorbidities. It’s important to monitor common symptoms related to these and talk to a doctor if you are experiencing any of the signs or symptoms of the conditions listed below.

Metabolic syndrome is a group of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease and other health conditions. These conditions include abdominal obesity, abnormal lipid levels, high blood pressure, and diabetes or prediabetes.

Anxiety and depression are two of the most common mental health disorders, and often overlap. When someone’s anxiety is constant, excessive, feels uncontrollable, and interferes with daily life, they may have an anxiety disorder. Signs of depression may include fatigue, loss of pleasure in normal activities, a significant loss or increase in appetite, poor self-image, and withdrawal from personal contact.

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are a group of chronic inflammatory bowel conditions that affect the gastrointestinal system. These can include Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). Symptoms may include diarrhea, blood in stool, and unintended weight loss.

Inflammatory arthritis is characterized by inflammation of the joints, and can include disorders like psoriatic arthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, among others. Symptoms may include stiffness, pain, and/or swelling at the joints.

Acne conglobata is a severe type of acne that usually affects men more than women. Along with other chronic suppurative (pus-forming) skin diseases, it was one of the first conditions associated with HS. These conditions are long‐lasting and can leave scars.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a disorder characterized by growths (cysts) on the ovaries, ovarian dysfunction, and hormonal imbalance. This can lead to irregular menstrual cycles, acne, infertility, and facial hair.